LAS CRUCES, N.M. – NM State (13-13, 6-10 CUSA) defended its home floor tonight, grinding out a 66–63 rivalry victory over the UTEP (10-17, 6-10 CUSA) inside the Pan American Center in the Battle of I-10. With the win, NM State splits the season series 1–1 with both programs earning victories on their home courts.

The Aggies didn't get off to the strongest start, as UTEP controlled the early tempo and built a narrow advantage during the opening minutes. NM State began to settle in midway through the half, sparked by Jayland Randall knocking down perimeter shots that fueled a 6–0 run and flipped momentum in favor of the Aggies, giving NM State an 18-17 lead. From there, the rivalry battle remained tight with both teams trading possessions and defensive stops.

Jemel Jones took control of the offensive pace late in the first half, scoring 10 of the Aggies' final 12 points over the closing stretch to keep NM State within striking distance heading into the locker room. His ability to create shots and convert in key moments provided a crucial lift as the Aggies carried momentum into halftime.

Coming out of the break, NM State elevated its defensive intensity while generating key second-chance opportunities to seize control. Jae'Coby Osborne provided a major spark with activity on the glass and efficient finishes around the rim, while Augustine Ekwe delivered valuable frontcourt minutes that helped the Aggies maintain physicality inside.

UTEP mounted a late push in the closing minutes, trimming the deficit to a single possession and creating tension down the stretch. However, the Aggies responded with composure defensively, securing critical stops in the final sequence to preserve the three-point victory and protect their home court.

Jones led NM State offensively with 21 points to continue his recent scoring surge, while Osborne turned in one of his most complete performances of the season. The Aggies' execution in key moments ultimately proved decisive in securing the rivalry win.
 

NUMBERS OF NOTE    

• Jemel Jones put together another standout performance for the Aggies, finishing with a team-high 21 points on an efficient 8-14 shooting from the field and 3-5 from beyond the arc. He also contributed four rebounds, three assists, a career-high three blocks and one steal in the contest. The outing marks Jones' fourth 20+ point performance in his last five games, highlighting his consistent offensive production during this stretch. 

• Jae'Coby Osborne flirted with a double-double while recording a career-high 12 points on 6-11 shooting from the field, with the 11 attempts marking the most of his career. He also pulled down nine rebounds, delivering one of his most complete performances of the season while providing a strong interior presence on both ends.

• Augustine Ekwe finished with six points on 3-4 shooting while adding four rebounds — all coming on the offensive glass across 20 minutes of action. The performance marked the most minutes the freshman center has logged this season and showcased his continued development and ability to impact the game through effort plays.
   

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