As the UTEP men's basketball team hits the final run-in to its Nov. 7 opener at Texas, the numbers say the Miners will be defined by their newcomers.
They make up 12 of the 15 roster spots and consume 10 of the 13 scholarships, an extreme number by the standards of even a few years ago that could become a new norm in the era of the transfer portal. Their success or failure will dictate the coming season.
If they succeed, however, don't underestimate the role the other three players are assuming.
Forwards Jumari Sibley, Ze'Rik Onyema and Kevin Kalu are listed as sophomores, but they bring an experience no one else has: They've worn Miner uniforms and played for coach Joe Golding.