UTEP Dominates Incarnate Word From Start To Finish

The UTEP Miners got a much needed 81-65 victory over Incarnate Word on Monday night, ending a three game losing streak.  The Miners dictated the pace from the opening tip to the final buzzer as they went on a 31-8 run early in the first half to take a 34-14 lead; one that they never relinquished.

Offensively the Miners played exceptional well, and evenly distributed the ball throughout the contest to enable multiple players to score double digit points.  Vince Hunter had another stellar performance by scoring 16 points, and achieved his sixth double-double in the last eight games.  Earvin Morris added 14 points, while Lew Stallworth tallied 13, and Julian Washburn contributed with 10.

UTEP outrebounded the Cardinals 47-23 and took advantage of multiple mismatches by outscoring them 48-18 in the paint.  The crucial win improved the Miners' record to 5-3 on the season, however the team was careless at times and committed a season high 22 turnovers.  UTEP even allowed Incarnate Word to pull within nine points at 48-39 five and a half minutes into the second half before putting the game away by going on a 17-7 run.

The Miners have an eight day break for finals and then will play four consecutive home games beginning with Southeastern Louisiana next Tuesday, followed by #3 Arizona on December 19.  UTEP will have to continue their scoring frenzy to have success against their upcoming opponents, especially when they host the Wildcats.  Limiting their turnovers is an absolute must and the newcomers need to continue to produce just as they did on Monday scoring 14 of 17 points during the Miners' second half run.

Here is the complete post game press conference with Coach Floyd.