Silver City, N.M. - Western New Mexico University's men's basketball took on the UT-Tyler Patriots. The Mustangs led most of the first half and for a good while into the second, playing well. Unfortunately, the Patriots claimed victory by the end of the game, 67-62.
Western was led by Matthew Okoye (Sugarland, TX/Stephen F. Austin High School) with 20 points, shooting 6-16. He was supported by Isaiah Marin (Phoenix, AZ/Copper Canyon High School) with 15 points(5-11), who also had 10 rebounds, and Carson Kelly (Chandler, AZ/Chandler High School) with 14 points(4-10).
In the first half, the Mustangs were shooting 46.2%(12-26) from the field and 50%(6-12) beyond the arc. The Patriots were shooting 40.6%(13-32) from the field and just 22.2%(2-9) from 3-point range. In the second half Western struggled, only shooting 30%(9-30) from the field and just 7.1%(1-14) from 3-point range. Concurrently, the Patriots had quite the swing in their favor, shooting 42.1%(16-38) from the field and 33.3%(2-6) from beyond the arc. Mustangs did well from the free throw line, shooting 72.2%(13-18), while the Patriots only shot 50.0%(5-10) from the line.
The Mustangs will be heading on break now and will return in the new year to take on Angelo State at home. They will be tipping off January 3rd, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. MDT.

This game recap is presented by First American Bank. First American Bank is a proud supporter of WNMU Athletics!​

***
Western New Mexico University is a member of the NCAA Division II, and the Lone Star Conference (LSC). For additional information regarding Mustang Athletics, visit www.wnmumustangs.com; visit wnmu.edu for more information about Western New Mexico University. Follow the Mustangs on social media: @WNMUathletics (Twitter, TikTok, Facebook, YouTube & Instagram).