The UNLV Runnin’ Rebels men’s basketball team is gearing up for its second consecutive road game this season, as they prepare to face Fresno State on Tuesday, February 3, at the Save Mart Center. The matchup, scheduled for 8 p.m. PT, will be broadcast nationally on FS1.
After a promising stretch that saw the Runnin’ Rebels (10-11, 5-5) win three in a row against Boise State, San Jose State, and Utah State, the team has hit a rough patch, losing their last three games to San Diego State, New Mexico, and Nevada. This upcoming contest marks the second time this season that UNLV and Fresno State will meet; the Runnin’ Rebels emerged victorious in the first encounter, winning 84-72 on December 20 at their home court, the Thomas & Mack Center.
This season, UNLV has been impressive in terms of scoring, averaging 77.9 points per game, with five players contributing 9.3 points or more each outing. The team has faced challenges with injuries, including the absence of key player Jones, who hurt his shoulder in a game against New Mexico. However, Fleming Jr. leads in rebounds with 5.7 per game, while Gibbs-Lawhorn leads in steals at 1.6, and Jones is the team’s blocks leader at 1.9, which is impressive both in the Mountain West Conference and on a national scale.
Now in his first year with the team, head coach Josh Pastner brings a wealth of experience from previous tenures at Memphis and Georgia Tech, boasting a robust career record of 286-198. This year’s roster is a mix of veteran experience and youthful potential, featuring only one returning player and a great influx of new talent.
Conversely, Fresno State (10-11, 4-6) is coming off a solid road victory over Air Force, winning 79-62. The Bulldogs, despite some struggles earlier in the season, have recently found their rhythm, winning three of their last five games. They are led by standout Jake Heidbreder, who scores 17.1 points per game and is supported by teammates Zaon Collins and Wilson Jacques in key roles for scoring and rebounding. Fresno State’s strong defense against 3-point shots, ranking seventh nationally with opponents shooting just 27.7%, showcases their defensive capabilities.
The first meeting between these two teams featured an exciting back-and-forth game with several lead changes, showcasing the talent on both sides. UNLV’s exceptional shooting performance, particularly in the second half where they shot over 61%, underscored their offensive strength and ability to capitalize in crucial moments.
As the Runnin’ Rebels look to bounce back from their recent losses, they will aim to harness their scoring prowess and improve their defensive presence against a challenging Fresno State team. This game presents an opportunity for both teams to define their season, with each vying for positioning in the competitive Mountain West Conference. Fans can look forward to what promises to be an exciting evening of college basketball, with coverage available on FS1 and ESPN Radio.