Opinion
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Will the UNLV Runnin' Rebels Outpace the Nevada Wolf Pack at Thomas & Mack?

As the University of Nevada, Las Vegas Runnin' Rebels gear up to face their state rivals, the Nevada Wolf Pack, at the Thomas & Mack Center, fans are eager to see if their team can continue its winning momentum. The upcoming clash is more than just a game; it's a battle for state supremacy.


Jan 28, 2023; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; UNLV Runnin' Rebels guard Elijah Parquet (1) and Nevada Wolf Pack guard Daniel Foster (20) battle in the second half at Thomas & Mack Center. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-USA TODAY Sports

The UNLV Runnin' Rebels have been on an impressive run lately. Their last home game on December 22 against Hofstra Pride showcased their dominance on both ends of the court. With a commanding 74-56 victory, UNLV displayed a balanced attack that should worry any opponent. The team shot an impressive 48 percent from the field and an even more remarkable 86 percent from the free-throw line. Their defensive prowess was evident with seven blocks and holding Hofstra to just 38 percent shooting.


But it's not just about one game; consistency is key in basketball. On December 17 against Saint Mary's Gaels in Phoenix, despite being pushed into double overtime, UNLV showed resilience but fell short by two points in a nail-biter finish with a score of 67-69. This loss could be seen as either a minor setback or as evidence of their ability to compete under pressure – something that will be crucial against NEV.


Jan 28, 2023; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; UNLV Runnin' Rebels forward Victor Iwuakor (0) dunks the ball against the Nevada Wolf Pack in the second half at Thomas & Mack Center. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-USA TODAY Sports

The most telling performance came during their encounter with Creighton Bluejays on December 14 at Dollar Loan Center where they secured an emphatic win with a scoreline of 79-64 over the eighth-ranked team. The Rebels were relentless offensively and defensively – shooting at an efficient rate of 52 percent from field goals and stifling Creighton’s offense by forcing turnovers and converting them into points.


UNLV’s strength lies in its ability to spread out scoring threats across multiple players while maintaining high assist-to-turnover ratios – indicative of smart ball movement and decision-making under pressure.


Jan 28, 2023; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Nevada Wolf Pack guard Jarod Lucas (2) misses a pass against against the UNLV Runnin' Rebels at Thomas & Mack Center. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-USA TODAY Sports

However, let’s not underestimate NEV who will come into this game looking to upset UNLV’s rhythm. They bring their own set of skills that could pose challenges for UNLV; however, based on recent performances and statistics alone, it seems like another win could be added under UNLV's belt if they stick to their style of play - aggressive defense combined with efficient offense.


Fans should mark February 18th on their calendars as this promises to be an electrifying matchup starting at sharp midnight local time (4:30 AM ET). It will also be nationally broadcasted live on CBS Sports Network channel number two hundred twenty-one for those who want to catch every moment from afar.

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