Charlotte (5-15, 2-7 C-USA) executed a late comeback but it was not enough as the 49ers fell to UTEP (7-12, 2-6 C-USA) 57-53 in El Paso, Texas.
The Niners finished the game with two players in double-figures, led by Jon Davis who registered 23 points. Freshman Brandon Younger scored 10 points and added six rebounds.
UTEP had three players in double-figures, led by Evan Gilyard who recorded 13 points. Nigel Hawkins scored 12 points and Paul Thomas added 11 points.
The game started with both teams exchanging baskets in the first several minutes. Efe Odigie’s jumper tied the game at nine with 13:41 remaining in the first half.