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Western New Mexico University Athletics

Western New Mexico University Athletics
MBB

Men's Basketball

Mustangs Drop Instate Contest in El Paso

EL PASO, TX - A last minute scheduling sent the Mustangs and the Aggies of New Mexico State University to play at UTEP's Haskins Center. After a back-and-forth first half, the Aggies pulled away, taking the victory 70-41.

"I am really proud of how we played in the first half. In the second half we broke down both offensively and defensively." said Head Coach Zane Gibson.

After missing the last three games, freshman forward Breion Powell (Austin, TX/Pflugerville Connally HS ) returned back to action and played a significant role. Powell led on both sides of the both leading the Mustangs with a career high of nine points and four rebounds. Marvis Odia (Houston, TX/George Ranch HS) netted 8 points, two of which were beyond the arc.

The first half was a back-and-forth battle, as neither team got the offense clicking. There were 6 lead changes and four times the game was tied. Down just two points with .8 seconds left, a crucial foul was called giving the Aggies the momentum, ending the half 31-23. 

"Chris Janz is a great coach and has a great staff. They are always at the top of the WAC" credits Gibson.

The Aggies got the ball moving and the offense strung together, pulling ahead to double digits with 14:01 left in the game. Aggies, Wilfried Likayi knocked down 20 points leading all scores and to a NMSU triumph.

"I am still  really proud of my guys. We have gotten so much better since last Thursday (game one against NNU) to now, both individually and more importantly as a team" explains Gibson.

With the next contest in 12 days, the Mustangs have time to prepare for UTPB, as they  just beat #11 and LSC foe St. Edwards on the road. 

 "Our schedule is as good as anyone's in the country and UTPB certainly is a big part of that" concludes Gibson. "It will be a really tough game and we will have to be at our best."

Mustangs head to Odessa to play a Women's and Men's doubleheader against UTPB on February 6th. Time is TBA.
 
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Players Mentioned

Breion Powell

#5 Breion Powell

G/F
6' 5"
Freshman
Marvis Odia

#15 Marvis Odia

G/F
6' 4"
Sophomore

Players Mentioned

Breion Powell

#5 Breion Powell

6' 5"
Freshman
G/F
Marvis Odia

#15 Marvis Odia

6' 4"
Sophomore
G/F