SAN JOSE, Costa Rica – The UBC Thunderbirds couldn't recover from a tough second quarter, which saw them outscored 16-4 by the UTEP Miners, in dropping a 78-73 decision in the opening game of their three game set in San Jose, Costa Rica.

Luka Zaharajevic led the 'Birds with 14 points and seven rebounds, Patrick Simon dropped in 12 points, while highly-touted freshman guard Mason Bourcier was impressive in his UBC debut, scoring 11 points to go along with three steals and two assists.  First-year Thunderbird Anthony McNish was strong on the defensive end, as UBC was a plus seven in his 14 minutes of play.


 
The UTEP Miners, who play in the NCAA Division One's Conference USA, were led by freshman forward Trey Wade with 16 points and 11 rebounds.
 
The Thunderbirds and Miners were tied after the first quarter 23-23, before UTEP went on their decisive 16-4 run in the second quarter. The 'Birds came back strong in the second half, outscoring UTEP 46-39, but couldn't come all the way back.
 
UBC will now play games versus the NCAA's Nevada Wolf Pack on August 19 and 20 at 3pm PT and 5pm PT respectively.