For Immediate Release: Tuesday, 4 November 2003
Contact: Dave Geringer, UTPA Sports Information Director (956) 381-2240

BRONCS DOWN MONTERREY TECH IN EXHIBITION OPENER

EDINBURG, TX-The University of Texas-Pan American's men's basketball team counts depth as one of their strengths this season.

The Broncs exhibited their depth as all 13 of their players who played scored and they won their exhibition opener against Monterrey Tech, 112-46, at the UTPA Fieldhouse Tuesday evening.

The Broncs scored 17 of the game's first 19 points, led by as many as 32 points late in the first half, and opened up a 56-26 halftime lead. Texas-Pan American scored 56 points in each half, made 21 of 36 shots from the field in the second half, and shot 55.8 per cent for the game. UTPA outrebounded the Borregos, 58-26, forced 26 turnovers, and held Monterrey Tech to just 22.4 per cent from the field.

Junior guard Sergio Sanchez (San Antonio, TX/South San Antonio HS/Temple College) led the Broncs with 17 points, junior forward Matt Berry (Tulsa, OK/Booker T. Washington HS/Indiana State) added 14, junior guard Ray Castillo (San Antonio, TX/South San Antonio HS/Temple College) added 13, sophomore Chris Fagan (Bronx, NY/Storm King HS/Trinidad State College) had 11, and junior guard Eric Montalvo (La Joya, TX/La Joya HS), junior guard Zach Weir (Waxahachie, TX/Waxahachie HS/Hill College) and sophomore forward Derrick East (Binger, OK/Lookeba-Sickles HS) added 10 apiece. Harold Galindo led Monterrey Tech with 15 points.

"I liked the way we played, and I was particularly impressed with the way we shared the ball," said UTPA Head Coach Bob Hoffman. "We also made our free throws, and those things will help add up to a recipe for success. We had a lot of people who played well. Matt Berry is one of those people who can shoot and can make defensive stops, and this year, everyone is playing at their natural position. There are a few things we need to work on, but I could talk about everyone they way we played tonight."

The Broncs will play their second and final exhibition game when they host Houston Quest Saturday night at 7:30 p.m.

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