Who’s new on the UTEP men’s basketball team? A break down of the new Miners players

In the new era of transfer portal-dominated college basketball, the UTEP men’s basketball team is no stranger to integrating seven newcomers into their roster. This is the situation they find themselves in as they approach the upcoming season, which will be coach Joe Golding’s third year at the helm. To address the team’s weaknesses from the previous season, UTEP has brought in five transfers (including two from junior college) and two freshmen. The focus is on improving shooting and ball handling.

“We’ve made great strides in building the culture,” said Golding. “Although there is still work to be done, I’m pleased with the progress we’ve made so far. The veterans have set the tone, and the newcomers have seamlessly blended in with the existing team.”

Let’s take a closer look at the new additions to the Miners:

Zid Powell – Powell, who was the star recruit of this class, is expected to step into the starting point guard position. He previously played at Buffalo, where he averaged 13.0 points and 2.7 assists per game. Powell’s exceptional free-throw shooting abilities will be a valuable asset to a team that struggled in that area last season.

Trey Horton – Horton, a freshman guard from Charlotte Hough High, brings his scoring and playmaking abilities to the team. He averaged 11.3 points and 3.5 assists per game in his senior year of high school, and his shooting skills will be a valuable addition to the roster.

David Terrell Jr. – Terrell, a freshman guard from Mansfield Summit, has already made an impression with his all-around skills. He averaged 13.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game in his senior year of high school. Terrell’s defensive prowess earned him the title of his district’s defensive player of the year.

Elijah Jones – Jones, a 6-8 freshman forward, adds size and athleticism to the team. He spent last year working out with the team but was not eligible to play. In high school, he averaged 14.1 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game.

Taj Hebb – Hebb, a transfer from Colorado State, could provide an immediate impact if granted eligibility. He played a rotation role last season, averaging 12.7 minutes and 2.3 points per game.

Sebastian Cole – Cole, a junior guard from Otero College, brings deadly shooting from beyond the arc. He shot 44% from 3-point range and averaged 11.8 points per game last season.

These incoming players are expected to boost UTEP’s performance on the court and contribute to the team’s goals for the upcoming season. With their unique skills and talents, the Miners are poised to make a mark on college basketball.

Bret Bloomquist can be reached at 915-546-6359; [email protected]; @Bretbloomquist on Twitter.

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: UTEP men’s basketball welcomes 7 newcomers for 2023-24 season