El Paso, Texas – The UTEP Miners men’s volleyball squad opened its season with a memorable win in the freshly renovated Memorial Gym, defeating New Mexico State in a five‑set battle that showcased the team’s depth and the community’s enthusiasm.
Home‑court advantage sparks a comeback
Head coach Ben Wallis praised the electric atmosphere created by what he called the “memorial maniacs,” a group of devoted fans who filled the new Club Memorial area with cheering and school spirit. The crowd’s energy seemed to lift the Miners, who rallied from a deficit to claim the match 25‑22, 22‑25, 25‑20, 20‑25, 15‑12.
Key contributors included outside hitter Landry Braziel, who recorded 12 kills, and fellow outside hitter Mackenzi Davis, who added 11 kills. Both players displayed poise under pressure, delivering crucial points in the decisive fifth set.
Coach Wallis highlights teamwork and character
“A lot of young freshmen went out there along with the good veterans, and our veterans and our freshmen together made the plays at the end. That’s really awesome,” Wallis said after the match. He emphasized the importance of trust and unity, noting that the blend of experience and fresh talent helped the Miners close out the game.
Wallis also spoke about the lessons the team will carry forward: “We can go to practice, and we will really take this and roll it into practice on how we hit the ball and how we physically stop people. I like my group.”
Looking ahead
Buoyed by the victory, the Miners now turn their focus to the road, where they will face the Texas State Bobcats on September 3 at 4 p.m. The upcoming matchup will test the team’s ability to maintain momentum against a strong conference opponent.
Local supporters expressed optimism about the season’s prospects. “Seeing the gym look brand new and hearing the crowd roar gave us a real sense of pride,” said longtime fan Maria Gonzales, who has followed UTEP volleyball for years. She added that the renovated facility promises a better experience for both players and spectators.
Community impact
The renovated Memorial Gym not only provides a modern venue for UTEP athletics but also serves as a gathering place for the broader El Paso community. School events, youth clinics, and local tournaments are slated to use the upgraded space, reinforcing the university’s role as a hub for family‑friendly recreation.
As the Miners continue their season, the combination of strong coaching, emerging talent, and a supportive fan base positions them to compete for conference honors and bring further pride to the city of El Paso.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
