Texas-El Paso vs Western Kentucky Picks and Prediction – 1/31/2025

UTEP enters this matchup with a 15-5 overall record and a strong 5-2 mark in Conference USA play. The Miners are coming off a narrow 73-71 win over Kennesaw State, bouncing back after a loss to Jacksonville State. Offensively, UTEP averages 73.4 points per game while shooting 45.7% from the field. Otis Frazier III leads the team in scoring with 14.6 points per game on 48.7% shooting. David Terrell Jr. runs the offense with a team-high 3.1 assists per contest. The Miners thrive on ball movement, averaging 13.8 assists per game, and capitalize on the ability to force turnovers, averaging 11.0 steals per game. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Defensively, UTEP allows 68.1 points per game while limiting opponents to 45.7% shooting. Despite ranking below average in rebounding at just 29.2 per game, the Miners compensate with aggressive perimeter defense. Corey Camper Jr. leads the team with 2.4 steals per game, making UTEP one of the top defensive squads in Conference USA. Shot-blocking is not a major strength, with Frazier leading the team at just 0.9 per game. 

Western Kentucky has had an up-and-down season, holding a 12-8 record and a 3-4 mark in conference play. The Hilltoppers earned a solid 75-66 road win against Sam Houston in the last game, snapping a two-game losing streak. Offensively, Western Kentucky puts up 76.8 points per game while shooting 42.3% from the field. Don McHenry is the team's top scoring option, averaging 17.2 points per game while shooting 83.1% from the free-throw line. Jalen Jackson leads the team in assists at 2.2 per game. The Hilltoppers dominate the boards, averaging 38.2 rebounds per game, led by Tyrone Marshall Jr., who pulls down 6.4 per contest.

Defensively, Western Kentucky has struggled, allowing 75.1 points per game. The team forces turnovers well, averaging 8.9 steals per game, but shot-blocking presence is limited, with Leeroy Odiahi leading at just 0.8 blocks per game. Defensive efficiency remains a concern, as opponents have exploited weaknesses inside. While the Hilltoppers have the offensive firepower to keep pace, defensive lapses have led to inconsistencies in conference play.

UTEP's ability to force turnovers and control the tempo will be key in this matchup. Western Kentucky’s rebounding edge could pose problems, but the Miners’ defensive pressure and efficient offense should give them the advantage. If UTEP can slow down Don McHenry and limit second-chance opportunities, they should come away with a crucial road win. Final Score Prediction: UTEP Miners win and cover 74-69.