June 23, 2009

LAS CRUCES, New Mexico- Last month UIC head coach Jimmy Collins journeyed back to his old mountainous stomping grounds of Las Cruces for a special ceremony honoring New Mexico State's 1970 NCAA Men's Basketball Final Four squad.

The New Mexico State University African-American Alumni Association sponsored a tribute gala for the team that featured a Final Four ring ceremony on May 16, 2009.

Collins was an All-American on the Aggies' 1969-70 squad that advanced to the school's first-ever Final Four. He poured in 24 points per game for New Mexico State as the Aggies made a memorable run to the national semifinals, where they fell to the John Wooden-led UCLA dynasty that eventually captured the NCAA crown that year.

"The 1970 Aggies team was arguably the best team in the country and the university's greatest team ever," keynote speaker and NBA champion Phil Chenier said. "I am proud to be a part of this historic occasion to honor the monumental achievements of this legendary powerhouse."

Former New Mexico State coach Rob Evans presented each member of the team with a Final Four ring to commemorate their achievements.

Collins, who was also honored with a special framed jersey with his number 22, recently recounted that special weekend.

"We initially got a blanket a letter 'A' award that year," said Collins. "For me, I was very, very excited and it was an honor. I'm very happy to be around to receive this special recognition."

The event also brought back some fond memories from that campaign for UIC's all-time winningest head coach, who is entering his 14th season at the helm of the Flames.

"There were some guys there who I haven't seen since the early '70s," said Collins. "For me, this is an honor that is not too late except for two of my teammates who have passed on, Bill Mohr and Milton Herm. I only wish those two fine men were around to receive this honor as well.

"We were a tough, hard-nosed team," Collins said. "Nobody, and I mean nobody, backed down."

Special thanks to New Mexico State Athletic Media Relations for information and photo.

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