On Nov. 25, the Vaqueros delivered a strong performance against LeMoyne University Dolphins, securing a decisive victory.
The UTRGV men’s basketball team quickly took control, scoring the first four points of the game and maintaining their lead throughout the first half. The Vaqueros ended the half with a 41-31 advantage, keeping the Dolphins at bay.
Despite the 10-point lead, Le Moyne entered the second half with a strong sense of determination. The Dolphins chipped away at UTRGV’s lead, closing the gap to just two points midway through the half.
Head coach Kahil Fennell addressed the team’s areas for improvement, emphasizing the need to strengthen their defense.
“Like I said before, they’re really talented,” Fennell said. “And they can make shots and they put you in a tough position by spreading the floor, so credit to them. But we have to do a better job of preventing teams from shooting 50% from the field for the game and 53% for the field in the second half.”
The Vaqueros responded by stepping up their defense and maintaining an offensive edge, consistently scoring from beyond the arc. Never giving up their lead and finishing the game with a 97-77 victory.
Fennell reflected on the team’s ability to balance defense with offensive strengths.
“I think because of the way our guys can shoot the ball, defenses really have to chase us over action and it makes things really difficult in that respect,” he said. “So, as long as we’re really diligent about, you know, fighting for paint touches and fighting for rim finishes, I think that’s really where we’re at our best.”
Graduate student guard DK Thorn credited his teammates for boosting his confidence on the court.
“I’ve been shooting some for the past couple of games,” Thorn said. “And they just kept telling me to shoot the ball, and we’ll rebound if you miss it, just keep shooting. So, I just credit my teammates for giving me the confidence and that’s how I play.”
Redshirt junior guard Howie Fleming Jr. spoke about the team’s companionship.
“I think, really for me, it doesn’t matter if I’m starting at night,” Fleming said. “Honestly, just being able to go out there and compete with my teammates, I pretty much owe it to the guys for all the hard work we put in. So just sticking to what we know, honestly, that’s it.”
The UTRGV Men’s Basketball Team will face Stephen F. Austin on Dec. 5 at 6:30pm in the fieldhouse.
This is Leonardo Guajardo For Vaquero Radio.
