WKU Hilltopper Basketball put up an impressive performance on Thursday night, clinching a 73-68 win against UTEP and sweeping the series against the Miners. Despite UTEP taking an immediate lead, the Hilltoppers remained determined and used an 11-2 run to take a 15-9 lead with 9:15 on the clock. WKU shot nearly 60% from the floor and outrebounded UTEP 32-27, allowing them to control the paint and make crucial shots at crucial times.
Although UTEP was able to rattle off seven straight in the second half and take a one-point, 44-43 lead, WKU fought back and never wavered. The Hilltoppers were able to keep the Miners at arm’s length, with UTEP never regaining the lead as WKU always had a response to their shots. Jordan Rawls made a timely 3-pointer with a hand in his face, icing the game with 1:50 remaining.
The Hilltoppers were led in scoring by Dayvion McKnight, who put up 24 points and seven boards while shooting 10 of 16 from the floor and a perfect 4 for 4 mark from the charity stripe. Rawls scored 15 points and Jamarion Sharp blocked six shots, scored 10 points, and logged nine rebounds.
WKU shot 59.2% from the field, a season-best against Division I teams, and are now 15-0 this season when leading with five minutes to play. The Hilltoppers are slated for their regular season finale against North Texas on Saturday afternoon, a game with Conference USA Tournament standings implications and which will be broadcasted on Stadium.
