Nearly 2,500 spectators attended the Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU) men's basketball game on Tuesday afternoon, where the Greyhounds secured a 92-73 victory over Northern New Mexico. The event was part of the annual kids game, which brought together youth from across the high plains to watch the action.
"This is a day that all of our guys love," said head coach Daven Võ. "Our staff did an absolute amazing job to get the arena full. It's not easy."
ENMU delivered its highest-scoring performance of the season with 92 points. Austin Abrams led the team with 26 points, shooting 11-of-17 from the field and making both his three-point attempts in just 27 minutes on the court.
Jose Murillo contributed 19 points, reaching double figures for a third consecutive game. He drew significant contact during play, accounting for 10 of Northern New Mexico's 17 fouls and converting nine out of fifteen free throws. Treyvon Byrd also scored in double digits with ten points and made all four free throw attempts.
All eligible ENMU players participated in the match. Elijah Hollins scored seven points off the bench in under six minutes and successfully made his only three-point shot attempt.
ENMU held a height advantage over their opponents, which contributed to outscoring Northern New Mexico 58-14 in points in the paint. The Eagles had only two players taller than 6-foot-4, compared to ENMU's larger lineup.
The first half remained competitive with ENMU leading by only two points at halftime (42-40). However, after halftime, ENMU started strong with a 14-0 run and maintained control for nearly 33 minutes during the game.
The Greyhounds achieved their best shooting percentage so far this season by hitting 53.8% from the floor (35-of-65). They also capitalized on fast break opportunities, outscoring Northern New Mexico’s team by seven in that category (18-11).
Sophomore Mo Austin played a key role in boosting performance during the second half, leading with six assists and five steals while adding eight points. ENMU also won the rebounding battle by an eleven-board margin (42-31).
Several players appeared for their first time this season, including Jesus Licon, Jaden Clarke (two points), Modibo Sanogo (three points), and Kayle Covington (two points and two rebounds). Head coach Võ highlighted Covington’s debut: "It was really cool to see Kayle," said Võ. "He was physical. I like what he did."
ENMU will travel for its next game against Northwestern Oklahoma State at noon Mountain Time on Saturday.
