UT Permian Basin opened its 2026-27 season with an 87-51 home win over the University of the Southwest, building a 20-point second-half edge. Graduate newcomer Tyler Halligan led the Falcons with 18 points, while UTPB’s balanced scoring and defense kept the Mustangs from mounting a challenge.

By the Numbers
  • Final score: UTPB 87, University of the Southwest 51.
  • Halligan: 18 points on 7-of-9 shooting, plus 5 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 blocks.
  • UTPB shot 53.1% from the field and recorded 19 assists; the Mustangs shot 32.7%.
  • Second-half score: UTPB 46, University of the Southwest 26.
  • UTPB led by 18 in points in the paint (46-28), 17 in points off turnovers (28-11) and 24 in bench points (45-21).
State of Play
  • The Falcons are 1-0; the Mustangs are 1-4.
  • UTPB trailed for just 50 seconds, despite five lead changes in the opening three minutes.
  • Coach Kyle Tolin’s team is 3-3 in season openers during his tenure.
What’s Next

UTPB heads to Colorado for the South Central Region Challenge, opening against Western Colorado on Friday, Nov. 13, at 1 p.m. CT in Gunnison. The Falcons beat the Mountaineers 83-71 in their second game last season; Halligan scored 16 points for Western Colorado in that matchup.

Bottom Line

UTPB’s opener showcased depth and efficient scoring, with a defense that tightened after halftime. The Falcons now face an early test against a Western Colorado team they know well—and Halligan will meet his former team.