Running back Hershul Olloway Jr. of St. Pius X High School verbally committed to the University of New Mexico on May 22 via an announcement on X.
Now New Mexico’s newest pair of hands in the backfield, Olloway Jr. rushed for 1,930 yards and 28 touchdowns in his junior season, and his speed also led him to a pair of victories in the 100-meter and 200-meter dash finals at the 2026 NMAA State Track & Field Championships last month.
“It means a lot to me to stay home and represent UNM,” Olloway Jr. said. “Growing up here, I understand how much people love the Lobos, so being able to play in front of family, friends, and the community is really special. I hope to help continue the success of the program.”
Olloway Jr. totaled 3,634 rushing yards on 358 carries, accumulating a whopping 10.1 yards per carry during his past two seasons as the Sartans’ lead back.
Rated as the best overall running back in the state (266th nationally,) according to Profile Recruiting player rankings, and listed at 5-foot-7, 175 lbs, Olloway Jr.’s skill set and overall talent make him a well-rounded running back, and a big get for Head Coach Jason Eck and his staff.
“Playing at St. Pius X helped prepare me a lot for the college level,” Olloway Jr. said. “The coaching staff here pushes me to improve every day and teaches me a lot of skills needed to play at the next level as many of them played (at the) next level themselves. Competing against great competition at practice and being part of a strong program helped me get ready for this next step.”
Olloway Jr. brings the Lobos’ 2027 recruiting class to five total commits, joining newly committed Brayden Ellis, Bryson Fleming, Bradley Cassier, and Tayven Collins.
New Mexico’s coaching staff, led by Eck, has been a vital piece in bringing in more talent into the program. Recruits have repeatedly praised the impact UNM’s staff has on their recruitment.
“What stood out most to me about the coaching staff was how genuine and supportive they were throughout the recruiting process,” Olloway Jr. said. “The whole staff and especially Coach (Darrius) Smith showed how much they cared about me as not only an athlete but a person as well. It also felt like they had a strong vision for the program and for my development which is very important.”
New Mexico’s 2027 recruiting class currently ranks 4th in the Mountain West Conference behind North Dakota State, UNLV, and Wyoming, according to Profile Recruiting.
Edge Garcia is a freelance reporter for the Daily Lobo. He can be reached at sports@dailylobo.com or on X @ByEdgeGarcia
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