Americas Basketball Alum Jordan Hernandez Joins UTEP Basketball

Junior guard Jordan Hernandez, an Americas high school graduate and Cochise College transfer, is the newest walk-on for the UTEP men's basketball squad, coach Joe Golding announced.

Hernandez averaged 10.8 points across 30 games played during his sophomore season at Cochise. He also averaged 5.4 assists and 2.3 steals per game, with shooting splits of 47% field goal and 31% from 3-point range. He played 62 games over his two seasons at Cochise, averaging 7.8 points during his freshman season.

He joins Chapin grad Antwonne Holmes as the only two El Pasoans on the roster.

"I'm super grateful. I'm just ready to get to work," Hernandez said regarding joining the team. "We're really deep in the culture. We won a National Championship. I talked to coach, I really got along with the guys and I really want to bring (winning) back. Get the culture back, fill up the Don (Haskins Center) and bring it back to what it used to be."

On Monday, Golding detailed a story in which Hernandez experienced an abnormal allergic reaction to some almonds, had to spend time in the hospital during the morning and already rejoined practice the same afternoon.

"He got an IV in him this morning and he's already back at practice," Golding said. "That's all you need to know about Jordan Hernandez. He brings a toughness to our team. Obviously grew up in the city and it means a lot to him."

"Jordan's won at every place he's been."

As a lifelong El Pasoan, Hernandez grew up a UTEP basketball fan.

"I remember coming to the games," he said. "It used to be the thing to do. Whenever there was a game, it would get packed out. When they lost, it was just a down day for everyone in the city. I think it's going to be like that this year."

For his role on the 2024-25 team, Hernandez is willing to do whatever is asked of him.

"Just work hard. Whatever the guys need me to do, whatever the coaches need me to do, that's what I'm going to do. I don't need to be the best player on this team. I just want to work hard. If I have to get others involved, if I have to play defense. Whatever we got to do to win."

On playing for Golding, Hernandez is excited about his new coach.

"I have a lot of respect for him. He really dedicates his time here and gets along with all the guys and we feel that. He really cares about you as not just a basketball player, but as an individual and I respect that a lot."