As we continue our look at the newcomers for the 2017-18 UTEP men's basketball season, Tirus Smith brings size and strength to the Miners roster. The 6-9 forward is well built, but his game is not limited to post up opportunities. In fact, the Petal, Mississippi star loves to shoot from the wing and compares his game to NBA star Anthony Davis.

It is funny how Smith described his first trip to El Paso and the dirt that surrounded the airport. His story is the exact reason why Don Haskins used to fly all of his recruits into town at night for their first official visit. El Paso is lit up at night, especially with neighboring Juarez and players used to think that the city was huge from the night view out of a commercial jet's window.

In addition to his offensive game, Smith also offers the ability to block and disrupt shots on the defensive end. If Tim Floyd is able to develop his newcomers as excellent two-way players, the Miners could quickly become a team on the rise in Conference USA.

More From 600 ESPN El Paso