When one thinks of UTEP sports, there is usually one event that springs to mind for most new students or alumni. The 1966 National Championship in Basketball helmed by legendary coach Don “Bear” Haskins. Immortalized by the 2006 film ‘Glory Road’ directed by James Gartner, which gives a Hollywood version of the true story of the first all African American starting five to win a national championship and its impact on breaking racial barriers in college basketball.
The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame recognized the 1966 Texas Western championship team in 2007 and the first full team inducted with that honor.