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UC Irvine Claims Sun Bowl Invitational Title Over Norfolk State

UTEP’s third-place win snapped a five-game slide, offering a steadier footing as Conference USA play approaches.

Overview

  • The Anteaters beat Norfolk State 89-70 in the championship game, with senior forward Kyle Evans named tournament MVP after posting 22 points, eight rebounds and four blocks.
  • UC Irvine controlled the final from the start, leading by 21 at halftime, shooting 53.3% overall and turning 15 Spartan turnovers into 20 points.
  • Norfolk State finished runner-up after edging host UTEP 72-71 in the opening round, a game swung by the Miners’ 12-for-27 free-throw shooting.
  • UTEP defeated North Dakota State 76-66 in the consolation game to take third, ending a five-game skid and logging its first Division I win of the season.
  • Head coach Joe Golding was ejected late in the first half of the third-place game as UTEP responded with improved execution, including 16-for-21 free throws and a game-high 24 points from Elijah Jones.