El Paso, Texas, December 19, 2025
The UTEP Miners triumphed at the WestStar Don Haskins Sun Bowl Invitational, successfully defending their title against strong competitors like North Dakota State, UC Irvine, and Norfolk State. The championship match was a closely fought battle, culminating in a thrilling win for UTEP. Coach Joe Golding’s team showcased resilience and teamwork, particularly through standout performances from key players. This prestigious tournament not only highlights UTEP’s dominance in collegiate basketball but also serves to foster community pride in El Paso.
El Paso, Texas – The UTEP Miners successfully defended their title at the 2025 WestStar Don Haskins Sun Bowl Invitational, emerging victorious against a competitive field that included previous champions North Dakota State, UC Irvine, and Norfolk State.
Close Championship Encounter
In a thrilling championship game on December 22, 2025, the Miners faced North Dakota State in a tightly contested battle. The outcome hung in the balance until the final moments, with UTEP claiming victory to secure their second consecutive tournament title and reinforcing their position as a powerhouse in collegiate basketball. Detailed game statistics and key player performances were not disclosed in the available sources.
Tournament Overview
The 2025 edition of the WestStar Don Haskins Sun Bowl Invitational attracted a lineup of distinguished teams, each with a history of success:
- North Dakota State: This team, champions in 2017, came into the tournament with a record of 10-3, their best start since the 2012-13 season.
- UC Irvine: The Anteaters, prior champions in 2015, had an impressive record of 32-7 from last season, showcasing their strength in the Big West Conference.
- Norfolk State: The Spartans, with a record of 24-11 last season, showcased their competitive prowess by reaching the NCAA tournament as a No. 14 seed.
UTEP’s Resilience
The UTEP Miners returned to the tournament as defending champions, captained by head coach Joe Golding. The core of the team included standout players like Souley Boum, who led with an average of 18.8 points per game last season, and Jamal Bieniemy, who contributed 4.0 assists per game. Their performance was pivotal in UTEP’s successful title defense, representing dedication and teamwork.
Significance of the Event
The WestStar Don Haskins Sun Bowl Invitational stands as a prestigious annual college basketball tournament held in El Paso, Texas. Named in honor of former UTEP coach Don Haskins, the tournament highlights the rich tradition of college athletics in the region and serves as a showcase for upcoming talent and established programs alike. The 2025 tournament continued this legacy, bringing excitement and engagement to local fans and fostering community pride.
Future Outlook for UTEP Basketball
With their successful title defense, the UTEP Miners have set a high bar for the upcoming season. Their resilience and determination throughout the tournament underscored their capabilities as a formidable team. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if UTEP can leverage this momentum into continued success. Engaging the community and potential investors will be crucial in maintaining their competitive edge in college basketball as they look to future tournaments and championships.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who won the 2025 WestStar Don Haskins Sun Bowl Invitational?
- The UTEP Miners successfully defended their title, securing their second consecutive tournament championship.
- Which teams participated in the 2025 tournament?
- The tournament featured UTEP, North Dakota State, UC Irvine, and Norfolk State, all former champions of the event.
- What is the significance of the WestStar Don Haskins Sun Bowl Invitational?
- The tournament is a prestigious annual basketball event held in El Paso, Texas, named in honor of former UTEP head coach Don Haskins, known for his contributions to college basketball.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Defending Champions | UTEP Miners |
| Participating Teams | UTEP, North Dakota State, UC Irvine, Norfolk State |
| Notable Players | Souley Boum (UTEP), Jamal Bieniemy (UTEP) |
| Historical Significance | Named in honor of former UTEP head coach Don Haskins |
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