These Players Need Big Games for UTEP Women’s Tournament Run

The UTEP women's basketball team begins their C-USA Tournament play this afternoon against Florida Atlantic University. The game will tip off at 12:30 p.m. and can be heard on 600 ESPN El Paso. Despite losing three of their last four regular season games, the Miners are hoping to save their best for last in Frisco this week. The team brings their 15-14 record into The Star as the #7 seed and the winner of today's game will meet #2 seed Old Dominion tomorrow at 12:30 p.m. In order for UTEP to advance past the first round, these players will need big performances on the court.

Kat Zec
The senior guard was named to the C-USA Second Team. She led the team in scoring, averaging 12.8 points per game. When Zec plays well, the Miners have their best chance to win. However, her offensive game has been inconsistent over the last month of the season.

Ariana Taylor
UTEP's sophomore post player is finally healthy and ready to contribute to the team's C-USA Tournament run. She started 9 of 11 league games, but she has not played significant minutes since Old Dominion on February 8th. The Miners are at their best when Taylor is in the rotation.

Ariona Gill
The senior saved her best for last as she has helped carry the Miners during C-USA, leading the team with an average of nearly 14 points and more than 8 rebounds per game. The only knock on Gill's game is her 57-percent free throw shooting.

Katia Gallegos
The former Franklin High School star has given head coach Kevin Baker steady play at the point guard position all season long, while averaging in double figures. Gallegos is arguably the best young player at the position that the Miners have had since Jareica Hughes. While she is fearless driving to the basket, Gallegos needs to play within her game, especially when it comes to shot selection.

Avery Crouse
Another talented freshman, Crouse has been gaining confidence in her offensive game as of late, and she has averaged 15 points over her last five games. If she can find her shot early, the Miners will have a good chance to make a run in Frisco.

Michelle Pruitt
One of UTEP's sparks off the bench, Pruitt has played in 28 games and she has made eight starts. Three weeks ago against UTSA, she scored 14 points and dominated inside. The Miners will need strong play from Pruitt, especially since they go with a guard-heavy lineup.