Did UNLV Runnin' Rebels' Fast Breaks Outpace Fresno State Bulldogs?

The UNLV Runnin' Rebels secured a victory over the Fresno State Bulldogs with a final score of 84-72. This win improved the Rebels' record to 8-3, while the Bulldogs fell to 5-6. The game was held at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, where an attendance of 6,113 witnessed an intense matchup.

First Half

The first half saw both teams battling for dominance. The Bulldogs started strong with a lead of up to 4 points early on. However, the Rebels quickly found their rhythm, thanks largely to Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn's impressive performance. He contributed significantly with his scoring ability and defensive prowess, helping the team close out the half trailing by just two points at 41-39.

Second Half

In the second half, UNLV turned up their intensity on both ends of the court. Their fast break points were crucial in shifting momentum as they outscored Fresno State by 14 points in this period alone. Howie Fleming Jr.'s playmaking skills came into full display as he orchestrated several key plays that led to easy baskets for his teammates.

The Bulldogs struggled against UNLV's defense which recorded six blocks and ten steals throughout the game. Despite their efforts led by efficient shooting from beyond-the-arc (36 percent), they couldn't keep pace with UNLV’s offensive surge.

Post Game Analysis

A post-game analysis reveals that one pivotal factor was indeed UNLV's ability to capitalize on turnovers; they scored fourteen points off turnovers compared to seventeen by Fresno State but maintained better control overall with fewer total turnovers (13). Additionally notable is how effectively both teams utilized paint presence—each scoring thirty-six inside—but it was ultimately free throw efficiency where Runnin’ Rebels excelled shooting eighty-six percent compared against seventy-seven from visitors contributing towards decisive edge late stages match-up ensuring triumph home side fans delightfully celebrated!

Looking ahead after this encounter between these competitive squads: next up for fans eagerly anticipating more action will be another exciting contest when La Sierra Golden Eagles visit Thomas & Mack Center December twenty-ninth scheduled tip-off time set ten PM Eastern Daylight Time available live stream via MW Network internet broadcast! Share your thoughts about this thrilling matchup using hashtag #UNLVBasketballRecap!