Tim Hardaway Returns, Receives Key to the City

UTEP legend Tim Hardaway returned to El Paso for the first time since his number was retired in 2012 for the Miners game on Senior Night against Middle Tennessee.  Although the game itself was a struggle for UTEP as they concluded their home schedule by falling to the Blue Raiders 69-53, it was a memorable night for the few fans who were in attendance thanks to Hardaway's return.  The announced attendance was 4,748 but in reality, the crowd couldn't have exceeded 1,000.

At halftime Mayor Dee Margo honored Tim by giving him a key to the city and proclaiming March 6 as "Tim Hardaway Day."  The Miner legend then thanked fans and would go on to sign autographs following the conclusion of the game.  UTEP honored lone senior Paul Thomas with a heartwarming video before and after the contest.  Thomas scored 13 points to go along with 7 boards in his final home game as a Miner.  Kaosi Ezeagu added 12 points and 9 rebounds, while Nigel Hawkins tallied 10 and Jordan Lathon contributed with 11 points.

The Miners are now 8-20, 3-14 in C-USA and will finish their season at Middle Tennessee on Saturday at 6:30 pm.