Despite playing in front of a packed gymnasium filled with the NMMI Corps of Cadets, the Bronco basketball team was unable to get their first conference win, falling to Odessa College at home, 94-84.
Before the holiday break, NMMI had traveled to and defeated the University of the Southwest in a 155-81 blowout, upping their overall record to 9-6. That match, back on December 5th, was the last time NMMI hit the court until tonight's conference game, and it was evident that NMMI needed to shake off some rust after such a long break in action.
Both teams came out sloppy with poor shooting. The first points of the game did not come until over two minutes and thirty seconds had expired in the first half.
Both teams also had double-digit figures in turnovers, NMMI slightly winning this battle with two less, 16-18.
But despite the slow start, NMMI sophomore guard Trevelin Queen and Odessa College's freshman guard LJ Figueroa put on an excellent offensive show for the fans in the stands, Figueroa leading all scorers with 38 points, with Queen trailing behind with one 37.
"Queen's an exceptional player," said head Bronco coach Ralph Davis. "But that said, we expect even more from him. He missed a ton of free throws tonight – he could have had 40 points and change. We also think he can be better on the glass."
Those missed free-throws played a pivotal role in the loss for NMMI. The Institute shot just 60% from the charity stripe, 20 for33, as a team.
Although disappointed with the loss, coach Davis knows his team can be right in the thick of things when conference play ends.
"We had more than enough opportunities to take care of business," said Davis. "We didn't rebound the basketball like I thought we were capable of, and we didn't hit free throws and makeable shots in our own gym. We're legitimately right there, we just need to correct those things – make those winning shots and finish games."
"We are down 0-3 in conference, now we've got to try and bounce back," continued Davis. "We'll focus Thursday on South Plains and try and get some wins on the road. I know we're capable. It's cliché, but we've got to just take it one game at a time."
Coach Davis also wanted to compliment the play of Jaylen Williams and the exuberance of the cadet crowd.
"Jaylen came off the bench and gave us some good minutes tonight. We just need to get everyone on the same page and play together as a cohesive unit," added coach Davis. "Also the crowd was tremendous tonight. They were into the game and did a great job."
