In an exhilarating clash in El Paso, Texas, Middle Tennessee triumphed over UTEP with a narrow 76-75 victory in overtime. Essam Mostafa was pivotal for the Blue Raiders, leading the effort with 16 points, and Kamari Lands clinched the win by making a decisive layup just four seconds before the end of overtime.
With this win, Middle Tennessee advances to a 20-9 overall record, with an 11-5 standing in Conference USA. This result keeps them a mere half-game behind Liberty and Jacksonville State in the Conference standings. The upcoming face-off against the Flames on Thursday in Murfreesboro is poised to be a significant encounter in determining the leader in the conference.
Mostafa’s performance was bolstered by his collection of 16 rebounds. Camryn Weston contributed to the team’s victory with 11 points, hitting 5 out of 12 shots, although he missed all three attempts from three-point range. Weston also grabbed five rebounds. Another key contributor, Jlynn Counter, managed 11 points and a 4 for 9 shooting record, including 3 for 8 from three-point territory.
On the opposing side, Kevin Kalu was a standout for the Miners, securing 26 points and pulling down nine rebounds. UTEP also saw strong performances from Ahamad Bynum, who added 16 points alongside two steals, and Otis Frazier III, who finished with 13 points, 11 rebounds, and two steals.
During the match, Weston was significant in the first half, scoring eight points, although the Blue Raiders trailed 33-31 at the break. It was Counter who led Middle Tennessee in the second half, adding nine points, including a crucial 3-pointer that leveled the score with 1:28 remaining, forcing overtime. In the extra period, Mostafa contributed significantly with four points to guide the Blue Raiders to victory.
Looking ahead, UTEP will face Sam Houston on Thursday as they aim to rebound from this hard-fought loss.
