MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Jlynn Counter led the way with an impressive performance, scoring 21 points in Middle Tennessee’s narrow 71-68 victory over UTEP on Saturday afternoon.

Counter had an effective shooting day, hitting 8 of 19 attempts from the field and making 5 of 11 from beyond the arc for the Blue Raiders, who improved their record to 15-7 overall and 6-3 in Conference USA. Essam Mostafa also contributed significantly, putting up 17 points on 6 of 10 shooting, coupled with 11 rebounds and three blocks. Jestin Porter added 15 points to the team total, shooting 4 of 11 from the floor, which included hitting 2 of 4 from three-point range, and converting 5 of 7 from the charity stripe.

On the other side, David Terrell Jr. impressed for the Miners, finishing the game with 15 points, 11 rebounds, six assists, and two steals, helping to keep the game competitive. Derick Hamilton chipped in with another 14 points, while Otis Frazier III also scored 14 points, adding four assists and a pair of steals for UTEP, which now stands at 15-7 and 5-4 in conference play.

With just 2:23 remaining in the second half, Middle Tennessee secured the lead for good. Torey Alston made a decisive layup that put the Blue Raiders ahead 70-68, ultimately sealing the game in their favor.