LAS CRUCES, N.M. – The Eastern New Mexico University men's basketball team dropped its final exhibition matchup of the season to New Mexico State, 84-62, on Tuesday. The Hounds get back on the hardwood on Friday at Oklahoma Christian for a non-conference showdown with the Eagles.

"I was proud of how hard our guys fought tonight," ENMU Head Coach Tres Segler said. "On a short turnaround, I thought our guys were able to battle and have success against a very good team. New Mexico State is a team that made the NCAA Tournament last year and I thought we found areas of success against them in big moments. We have a lot to go back and correct, but we're on a good track and moving in the right direction."
 
Jamani Pierce paced the Hounds offensively with 12 points on 5-of-7 shooting and grabbing three rebounds. Andre Hughes dropped 11 points, going 4-for-6 from the field and 3-for-4 from the charity stripe. Zach Parker (10 points), Devin Pullum (9 points) and Isaac Maldonado (7 points) all turned in strong offensive performances for the Green and Silver.

"Andre had a good game tonight in our final Division I exhibition game," Segler said. " He gave us some high-energy plays that only Andre can make. I was proud of Isaac for battling against bigger players and giving us the toughness plays in big moments that we needed."
 
On the glass, Lamarquis Thompson led the team with five boards, including three on the offensive end of the court. The seniors work on the offensive glass helped the Hounds to eight second-chance points.
 
Maurice Coleman did a tremendous job of setting up the offense from the point as ENMU shot 42% from the field. The Richmond, Va., native had a season-best six assists in the setback.
 
The Hounds travel to Edmond, Okla., on Friday, Dec. 15 for a non-conference tilt with Oklahoma Christian. Tipoff against the Eagles is slated for 6 p.m. For the latest news on ENMU Athletics, follow @ENMU_Hoops and @ENMUAthletics on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram or visit GoEasternAthletics.com.