EL PASO, Texas (Interstat) — The UTEP Miners, off to a strong 8-3 start, will look to continue their momentum when they host the Delaware Blue Hens to open Conference USA women’s basketball play on Friday, Jan. 2, 2026, at the Don Haskins Center.

UTEP enters on a high note after a dominant 102-43 victory over Southwest on Monday. Mary Moses Amaniyo led that effort with 20 points in just 18 minutes. The Miners have feasted at home this season, boasting a 6-1 record in El Paso, with their only blemish a 93-72 loss to UC Irvine on Dec. 18.

Delaware (6-6) seeks consistency after alternating wins and losses over its past six games. The Blue Hens are coming off a 70-63 road loss at Harvard on Monday, despite 18 points and six rebounds from standout forward Ande’a Cherisier. The junior has been a bright spot, averaging 14.2 points and 5.2 rebounds over her last six contests, including a double-double (14 points, 10 rebounds) in a loss to La Salle on Dec. 17.

This matchup marks the conference opener for both teams. UTEP’s schedule has included some tough road tests against power conference opponents, resulting in lopsided losses at BYU (81-46) and TCU (95-40). Delaware’s resume features a mix of tight contests, including an overtime win at Colgate and an overtime loss to Old Dominion.

A key battle will be in the frontcourt between Delaware’s Cherisier and UTEP’s Amaniyo, who provides efficient scoring for the Miners. Delaware will need to contain UTEP’s balanced attack, which saw Portia Adams dish out seven assists and Irene Asensio add 13 points in the rout of Southwest.

The Blue Hens begin a challenging two-game Texas road swing, facing New Mexico State on Jan. 4. UTEP remains at home to host Liberty on Jan. 4. Friday’s tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. local time.