UTEP Basketball: Building Character and Poised for a Return to the Golden Years

The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) basketball program has a rich history, including five NCAA Final Four appearances and two national championships. However, the Miners have struggled in recent years, posting just one winning season in the past decade.

Rebuilding the Foundation

In 2021, UTEP hired Joe Golding as head coach. Golding, a former assistant coach at Abilene Christian University, inherited a team that had lost 20 of its last 22 games.

Golding immediately set about rebuilding the program's foundation, emphasizing character and toughness. He recruited players who were not only talented but also had a strong work ethic and a commitment to teamwork.

Early Struggles and Signs of Progress

The Miners struggled in Golding's first season, going 11-21. However, there were signs of progress, as the team showed grit and determination in several close losses.

In the 2022-23 season, UTEP improved to 15-14. The Miners won some impressive games, including a victory over then-No. 21 New Mexico.

Building a Winning Culture

Golding has instilled a winning culture in El Paso. The Miners play hard, never give up, and are always looking to improve.

This culture is evident in the team's recent success. UTEP has won four of its last five games, including a road victory over rival New Mexico State.

The Road Ahead

UTEP is still a young team, but the Miners have all the ingredients to be successful in the future.

The Miners have a talented roster, led by star guard Keonte Kennedy. They also have a strong coaching staff, led by Golding.

With continued hard work and dedication, UTEP can return to the golden years and compete for championships once again.

Perspectives on the Rebirth

There are several perspectives on UTEP's resurgence. Some believe that Golding is the key to the Miners' success. Others believe that the team's young talent is the driving force.

Golding has undoubtedly made a significant impact on the program. He has recruited talented players, instilled a winning culture, and developed a system that suits his team's strengths.

However, the Miners' young talent is also a major factor in their success. Kennedy is one of the best players in Conference USA, and he has a supporting cast of talented players around him.

Implications for the Future

UTEP's resurgence has several implications for the future of the program.

First, it shows that the Miners are capable of competing at a high level. UTEP has a proud basketball tradition, and the team's recent success suggests that they are poised to return to the golden years.

Second, UTEP's success could help to revitalize the city of El Paso. The Miners are a source of pride for the community, and their success could help to boost the city's economy and morale.

Finally, UTEP's success could serve as an inspiration to other teams that are struggling. The Miners have shown that it is possible to rebuild a program and achieve success, even after a period of decline.

UTEP has the potential to be a national championship contender once again. With continued hard work and dedication, the Miners can reach the pinnacle of college basketball.

UTEP Basketball Building Character & Poised For Return To Golden Years

Jennie Sundberg