Opinion
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Spartans Set to Confront Runnin' Rebels in Las Vegas Showdown

As the San Jose State Spartans gear up for their next challenge against the UNLV Runnin' Rebels at the Thomas & Mack Center, fans are cautiously optimistic. The Spartans have had a rollercoaster season, but their recent performances suggest they might just have what it takes to upset the odds.


Feb 14, 2023; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; UNLV Runnin' Rebels forward Victor Iwuakor (0) defends a shot from San Jose State Spartans forward Tibet Gorener (31) in the second half at Thomas & Mack Center. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-USA TODAY Sports

In their last outing on February 21st against Boise State Broncos, SJSU struggled to find their rhythm, scoring only 16 points in the first half and ultimately falling with a final score of 50-82. Their field goal percentage was a paltry 33 percent and from beyond the arc, they managed only 36 percent. These numbers were well below what is needed to compete with top-tier teams.


However, looking back at their February 18th game against Wyoming Cowboys provides a glimmer of hope. The Spartans put up an impressive fight on home turf and nearly clinched victory before falling short by five points with a score of 75-80. They showed significant improvement in shooting with an overall field goal percentage of 48 percent and an even more impressive two-point shooting rate at 56 percent.


Feb 14, 2023; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; UNLV Runnin' Rebels guard Keshon Gilbert (10) defends against San Jose State Spartans guard Omari Moore (10) in the second half at Thomas & Mack Center. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-USA TODAY Sports

The most encouraging performance came on February 14th when SJSU defeated Air Force Falcons with a scoreline of 73-66. Dominating inside the paint was key for them as they scored an outstanding number of points from close range and boasted a two-point field goal percentage of an incredible 71 percent.


What these games highlight is that when SJSU controls the paint and maintains high shooting accuracy, particularly from two-point range, they can be formidable opponents. Against UNLV, it will be crucial for them to replicate this success inside while also tightening up defensively to reduce turnovers which have plagued them throughout previous matches.


Feb 14, 2023; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; UNLV Runnin' Rebels guard Shane Nowell (3) and forward Victor Iwuakor (0) scramble for a loose ball against the San Jose State Spartans in the second half at Thomas & Mack Center. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-USA TODAY Sports

The upcoming game will not be easy; UNLV has shown themselves to be strong contenders this season. However, if San Jose State can harness their evident potential in offense while shoring up defense – focusing on reducing personal fouls which have been consistently high – there's every chance they could walk away with a win.


Fans should mark their calendars for March 2nd at 7:00 PM PST when SJSU takes on UNLV at Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. This pivotal matchup will broadcast nationally on CBS Sports Network channel number is:221 . It's set to be an enthralling encounter as both teams vie for supremacy on court – one that Spartan supporters won't want to miss.

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