Senior Night Showdown
Senior Night is always a special occasion, and this year is no different for the Runnin’ Rebels. Hosting San Diego State, one of their fiercest Mountain West Conference (MWC) competitors, makes the stakes even higher. Fans will be treated to a celebratory atmosphere, complete with promotions like exclusive white t-shirts and giveaways, while the team fights to close out their home games on a high note. For players and fans alike, this game is a moment of recognition, gratitude, and focus.
Rolling at the Right Time
The Rebels are peaking at just the right time during this critical phase of the season. Having won five of their last six games, the team has leveraged a stifling defensive effort. Opponents have averaged just 57.8 points per game in this stretch, highlighting the Rebels’ ability to shut teams down and control the tempo of play. Their balanced roster has been key to this success, with standout performances from players such as Dedan Thomas Jr., Jaden Henley, and Jailen Bedford.
- Dedan Thomas Jr. has been a catalyst for the team, leading in assists and displaying an all-around impactful game.
- Jaden Henley and Jailen Bedford continue to energize the scoring and rebounding efforts.
- Jeremiah Cherry, meanwhile, has been a powerful presence in the paint, leading the charge in rebounding battles.
This collective effort exemplifies the team’s “all-in” mentality under the leadership of Coach Kevin Kruger.
Inspiring Resilience Under Kruger
Coach Kevin Kruger is now in his fourth season at the helm of the UNLV program. With a career record of 74-53 (.583), Kruger has built a culture of resilience and teamwork, crucial for handling the ups and downs of a demanding basketball schedule. His ability to get the best out of his roster has been on full display, as the Rebels continue to push through adversity.
One recent example of the team’s perseverance has been managing injuries. Star point guard Dedan Thomas Jr. missed three consecutive games but is expected to return for the high-stakes contest against San Diego State. Thomas’s return comes at a critical time, as his leadership on the court will be vital against a formidable opponent.
Recent Success Against San Diego State
The Rebels have already proven their mettle against San Diego State earlier this season. Back on January 18, 2025, UNLV notched an impressive 76-68 victory. Dedan Thomas Jr. was outstanding in that game, leading all scorers with 19 points, while Brooklyn Hicks added 13 points to the effort. The team will look to replicate that strong performance on Tuesday, drawing confidence from their prior success.
Eyeing the Postseason
With an overall record of 16-13 and a 10-8 mark in MWC play, UNLV is in a competitive position as they near postseason play. After an inconsistent start to the season, the Rebels gained momentum by winning three straight games before suffering a loss to Colorado State. They bounced back immediately with a win over the Nevada Wolf Pack, demonstrating their ability to recover and stay locked in on their goals.
While they have experienced highs and lows, their recent winning trends suggest a team ready to battle whoever comes their way in March.
The Final Stretch
As the Rebels prepare to take the court for their Senior Night finale, there is an aura of excitement and readiness around the team. The players, motivated by their recent successes and led by a strong coaching staff, are well-positioned to finish the regular season with a statement win over San Diego State. With fans rallying behind them and a postseason bid on the horizon, UNLV is hungrier than ever to prove they have what it takes to make noise in March. Tuesday's game is not just another matchup — it’s an opportunity to write the next chapter in their storied basketball legacy.
Rebel fans won’t want to miss the action as UNLV looks to sustain their momentum and capitalize on the hard work they’ve invested all season long. Bring the energy, wear white, and get ready to support the Runnin’ Rebels in what promises to be an exhilarating Senior Night clash!