Vaqueros Dominate Knights in Home Opener

The Vaqueros showed up and dominated the Southwestern Adventist Knights 110-53 in their home opener Monday night to improve UTRGV’s overall record to 2-2. 

Monday’s game marked the second win of the season for UTRGV after returning from three road games. 

UTRGV had multiple players scoring in the double digits Monday night. 

The Vaqueros dominated the court offensively and defensively, having double offensive and defensive rebounds compared to Southwestern Adventist.

“I’m really proud of the guys for making aggressive plays on offense and defense,” said Head coach Kahil Fennell.

The Knights who are 3-1, were led by Guard Rueben Doria who scored 19 points and Guard/Forward Andre Guajardo Mancilla who contributed 12 points.                                                                  

Fennell said he is glad the fans showed up to support the team Monday night.

“It’s great to see the fans come out and support the guys in the home opener,” he said.

According to Fennell, the tough games are yet to come as they go on to three games on the road.

“The biggest challenge for us is to go back on the road and face opponents like Missouri State and Stephen F. Austin,” he said. “No rest for the weary and we have to embrace the real high caliber opponents.”

UTRGV Forward Dane Christensen said the game helped him gain confidence after his injury.

“Tonight was a real confidence booster for me coming back from my injury seven weeks ago and not being as confident the past couple of games,” Christensen said.

Vaquero guard Koree Cotton said the next couple of games will be tough with them being on the road.

“Road games are always tough, I think the fans tonight really helped the new guys going into the next three road games,” Cotton said.

The next game for the Vaqueros will be against the Missouri State Bears at 4 p.m. Nov. 22 at Great Southern Bank Arena.