Upon the conclusion of non-conference play, UTEP sophomore guard Nigel Hawkins has entered the transfer portal according to Verbal Commits.

Hawkins averaged 3.8 points, led the team in steals (18 total) and was second in assists (26). He averaged 15.9 minutes off the bench in a crowded backcourt, consisting of Jordan Lathon, Daryl Edwards, Souley Boum, Kaden Archie and Anthony Tarke.

This season featured a dramatic depreciation of minutes for Hawkins due to the talent in the backcourt.

Last year, he started in all 27 games for the Miners and was third on the team in points per game (12.6). Hawkins led last year’s team and was sixth in C-USA for free throw percentage (79.5) and made free throws (97). He received a C-USA Freshman of the Week award on Jan. 14.

Hawkins even led all C-USA freshmen in minutes per game (33.8).

In high school at Cypress Falls (Houston), Hawkins was a two-time All-State and State MVP as a junior. He was ranked the 15th best player in Texas by TexasHoops.com and the No. 6 player in Houston by RCSSports.com.

His roots in basketball also run deep. His father, Steve Hawkins, played in the NBA for four teams (Boston Celtics in 1997, Sacramento Kings in 1999, Charlotte Hornets from 1999-2000 and Cleveland Cavaliers from 2000-01), while his uncle, Eric Snow, played in the NBA as well (Seattle SuperSonics from 1995-98, Philadelphia 76ers from 1997-2004 and Cleveland Cavaliers from 2004-08).

Because of his basketball pedigree and what he showed last year, Hawkins could transfer to a top-notch program for his 2.5 years of eligibility.

Hawkins joins redshirt freshman forward Kaosi Ezeagu as the pair of players transferring.

As stated, UTEP finished non-conference and will get ready to face FIU to start C-USA play on Thursday, Jan. 2.

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