El Paso, Texas – The UTEP Miners secured a narrow win over the New Mexico State Aggies in the opening round of the annual Battle of I‑10. The game, played Thursday night at the GECU Arena inside the Don Haskins Center, ended 60‑58 in favor of the Miners.
Key moments and final stretch
Both teams exchanged leads throughout the contest, but UTEP’s disciplined defense in the final minutes forced a turnover that set up the decisive free throws. Senior guard Jordan Alvarez sank two clutch free throws with 12 seconds left, giving the Miners a two‑point cushion they would not relinquish.
New Mexico State’s leading scorer, junior forward Marcus Rivera, finished with 18 points, but his late‑game three‑pointer missed the mark, leaving the Aggies just short of the comeback.
Impact on the season
With the win, UTEP improves its overall record to 2‑1, positioning the Miners for a potential postseason run in the Western Athletic Conference. The Aggies, now 1‑2, will look to rebound in the second round scheduled for next week in Las Cruces, New Mexico, at the Pan American Center. Tip‑off for that matchup is set for 7 p.m.
Both programs view the Battle of I‑10 as a regional rivalry that showcases the talent of West Texas and Southern New Mexico. Coaches from each side emphasized the importance of the series for recruiting and community engagement.
Coaches’ comments
UTEP head coach Mike Davis praised his team’s resilience: “Our guys stayed focused, executed the game plan, and showed the heart that our fans expect. We’re proud to bring this win home to El Paso.”
New Mexico State head coach Laura Martinez remained optimistic despite the loss: “We fought hard and learned a lot. The second game gives us a chance to adjust and prove we belong in this rivalry.”
Looking ahead
The upcoming round will be the first time the two squads meet on NMSU’s home floor this season. Fans from both schools are expected to travel, reinforcing the cross‑border spirit of the series. Local businesses in El Paso and Las Cruces have already begun promoting game‑day specials, underscoring the economic boost that college athletics bring to the region.
For more information on ticket sales, broadcast options, and community events surrounding the Battle of I‑10, visit the official athletic sites of UTEP and New Mexico State.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
