March 9, 2010

OREM, Utah - While preparing for the inaugural Great West Conference (GWC) Basketball Championship, three University of Texas-Pan American (UTPA) men's basketball players learned that they have been named Honorable Mention for the 2009-10 season, while freshman guard Aaron Urbanus was named to the All-Newcomer Team.

Sophomore guard Jared Maree averaged 9.9 points per game and shot 83 percent from the line in 30 appearances.

Senior forward Luis Valera was a starter in all 31 games, averaged 9.5 points per game and lead the team with 17 blocks throughout the season.

Junior guard Nick Weiermiller averaged 8.2 points per game and lead the Broncs in steals with 36 throughout 31 games played.

"I'm really pleased to see Nick, Luis and Jared being recognized for their contributions. Each has been a key contributor, and above all else are very unselfish players who put the team's success first," head coach Ryan Marks said.

Steadily improving throughout the season, Urbanus saw action in all 31 games and earned the role of starter in 18. He averaged 7.9 points per game, and recorded a 37 field goal percentage from behind the arc.

"Aaron has made incredible progress over the course of the year and has solidified himself as one of the top freshmen in the conference. To be a freshman and be honored in a selection of all-newcomers, which also includes transfers and junior college transfers is quite an accomplishment," Marks said.

The Broncs are currently in Orem, Utah to compete in the GWC Basketball Tournament March 10-13 at the McKay Center on the campus of Utah Valley University. The No. 5 seed Broncs will face No. 4 Utah Valley University at 3:30 p.m. (CT) Wednesday.

For the latest Bronc Basketball information throughout the tournament follow us on Twitter @BuckyTheBronc and @UTPA_AD.

UTPA Media Relations