Statistical Leaders:

UTEP Miners:

Points- Konner Tucker (12.6), Julian Washburn (12.2), John Bohannon (10.4)

Rebounds- John Bohannon (6.2), McKenzie Moore (4.8), Cedrick Lang (4.7)

Assists: Jacques Streeter (4.6), Julian Washburn (1.9), Konner Tucker (1.6)

East Carolina Pirates:

Points- Maurice Kemp (17.7), Miguel Paul (12.8), Robert Sampson (9.9)

Rebounds- Robert Sampson (9.2), Maurice Kemp (8.0), Ty Armstrong (4.9)

Assists- Miguel Paul (6.2), Maurice Kemp (2.4), Corvonn Gaines (2.3)

Final thoughts: It is really great that UTEP got over the woes they had against Tulsa. There is one thing I am worried about this match up and it is not the game itself, it is the east coast. There is just something about UTEP and playing in the east coast that doesn’t fare well no matter what sport is being played. If the Miners are to win tonight they must play defense from tip off to the final buzzer as well as take SMART shots. We cannot expect a victory if we are going to take up a horrible shot that doesn’t put us in position for an offensive rebound. With that said, I just feel like UTEP might come up a bit short tonight against the Pirates.

Prediction: Pirates 73, Miners 69