The UNLV men’s basketball team delivered a strong performance on Friday night, defeating their in-state rivals, the UNR Wolf Pack, 68-55 at the Thomas & Mack Center. The win solidifies UNLV’s dominance over their cross-state competition and maintains their winning momentum heading into the final stretch of the season. Here's a breakdown of the key highlights from the game:
Dominant Board Play
Controlling the glass was one of the standout aspects of the Rebels' performance. UNLV dominated the rebounding battle, outpacing the Wolf Pack 48-27. This significant edge on the boards enabled UNLV to control the pace of the game, create second-chance opportunities, and limit the Wolf Pack’s possessions. The team’s physicality and hustle under the rim were crucial in securing the victory.
Jaden Henley's Career Night
Freshman guard Jaden Henley had a breakout performance, leading the charge for UNLV with a career-high 23 points. Henley showcased his scoring versatility, finding ways to attack the basket while also stepping up on defense. His energy and offensive efficiency were critical in propelling the Rebels forward in a tightly contested matchup. Henley’s performance demonstrated his growth as a player and highlighted his potential as a key contributor to the team moving forward.
UNR’s Kobe Sanders Shines, but Falls Short
Despite the loss, UNR guard Kobe Sanders put up an impressive effort, scoring a game-high 30 points for the Wolf Pack. Sanders was a consistent scoring threat throughout the night, keeping his team within striking distance. However, his individual brilliance wasn’t enough to overcome UNLV’s cohesive team effort. The Rebels focused on neutralizing the rest of the Wolf Pack roster, which ultimately led to their downfall.
Team Effort Secures the Win
While Henley stole the spotlight, the Rebels’ victory was a testament to their collective effort. Contributions on both ends of the floor from the entire lineup helped UNLV maintain control throughout the game. Their defensive cohesion and ability to execute plays down the stretch ensured that they kept the Wolf Pack at bay. The cohesive performance served as a reminder of the strength of the Rebels when they play together as a unit.
Looking Ahead: Final Home Game vs. San Diego State
The Rebels will now shift their focus to their next matchup, which is set to be their final home game of the regular season. On Tuesday at 8 p.m., UNLV will host San Diego State (19-7, 12-5), a team sitting near the top of the conference standings. The game presents an opportunity for the Rebels to build on their momentum and end their home campaign on a high note. The stakes will be high as UNLV looks to finish strong in the lead-up to postseason play.
The Rebels’ victory over the Wolf Pack showcased their ability to perform under pressure while highlighting the growth of young talents like Jaden Henley. With rebounding dominance, standout individual performances, and a strong team effort, UNLV is shaping up as a formidable competitor as the season reaches its climax.