UTEP Miner volleyball reloads, renovates for first Mountain West season
UTEP volleyball coach Ben Wallis is navigating an uncommonly busy “down” season as the programme prepares for a transformative 2026 campaign. While the 18-player roster is set and the schedule is released, the focus remains on a high-stakes race to complete facility upgrades before the season begins.
A State-of-the-Art Home
The centerpiece of the current activity is a $1.5 million renovation of Memorial Gym. Workers are currently finalizing the installation of a state-of-the-art Teraflex floor, which is designed to be safer and potentially reduce the injury rates seen during the team’s 2025 season.
These upgrades were spurred by a record $1 million gift from Dr. Bob McFadden. Following the floor installation, the project will move into floor seating and lighting renovations, with the goal of debuting the finished facility on August 30.
The timeline creates a logistical challenge for August practices. Coach Wallis noted that the team may need to work around construction or temporarily relocate to Forster-Stevens to share space with the basketball programme.
Reloading the Roster
UTEP enters the new season facing a significant transition after graduating five special seniors, four of whom are pursuing professional careers. However, Wallis maintains that the programme is “reloading” rather than rebuilding.
The 18-player roster features eight freshmen, including six new signees and two returning redshirts. The team also adds depth through transfers, including setter Shea Bruntmyer from Samford and libero Lily-Rose Pichon, the former MEAC defensive player of the year from Norfolk State.
A major boost comes from the return of sixth-year senior Ema Uskokovic. An all-American who missed the 2025 season due to a knee injury, Uskokovic is regarded by Wallis as potentially the best player in the conference.
Navigating the Mountain West
The move to the Mountain West Conference brings a different competitive landscape. Wallis suggests the conference is deeper than Conference USA, noting that You’ll see fewer “bad” programmes in the league.
The schedule format also changes significantly, with six of the nine two-match series occurring on a Thursday-Saturday slate. This new structure may place a higher premium on the coaching staff’s ability to scout and adjust game plans during the day off between matches.
A Battle-Tested Schedule
To prepare this young squad, Wallis has assembled what he describes as perhaps the toughest non-conference schedule of his career. The Miners will face TCU, Baylor, Arizona, and New Mexico State all within a 10-day window.
The season begins with exhibitions at Arizona State and Texas State in mid-August. The home opener is set for August 29 against Tulsa, followed immediately by the opening of the renovated gym against rival New Mexico State on August 30.
Given the youth of the roster, this aggressive early schedule could serve as a critical test to battle-test the players before they enter the deep waters of Mountain West play.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the renovated Memorial Gym officially open?
The renovated facility is set to debut on August 30 during the home game against rival New Mexico State.
Who is the most significant returning player for the 2026 season?
Sixth-year senior Ema Uskokovic, an all-American and former all-Conference USA player, returns after missing the 2025 season due to a knee injury.
How does the Mountain West schedule differ from UTEP’s previous conference?
The Mountain West utilizes a different format where many two-match series are played on Thursdays and Saturdays, providing a day in between for game planning.
Do you think a challenging non-conference schedule is the best way to prepare a roster with eight freshmen for a new conference?