LAS VEGAS -- Jaden Henley led the UNLV Runnin' Rebels to victory over the Nevada Wolf Pack with 23 points, securing a 68-55 win on Friday night at the Thomas & Mack Center. The Rebels improved their season record to 16-13, with 10 wins and 8 losses in the Mountain West Conference, as they continue to chase postseason aspirations.
Henley not only topped the scoreboard but also contributed eight rebounds, demonstrating his all-around play. Jalen Hill followed closely with 16 points and eight rebounds of his own. Julian Rishwain added 11 points, shooting 3 for 8 overall, including 2 for 6 from beyond the arc, and completing all three of his free throw attempts.
On the other side, the Wolf Pack struggled to find offensive rhythm, with guard Kobe Sanders leading the way for Nevada (16-13, 8-10 Mountain West) with 30 points. Justin McBride chipped in 12 points, but the rest of the team’s scoring fell short, struggling to support Sanders as they combined for just 13 points.
UNLV entered halftime with a lead of 34-26. Henley was pivotal to this early advantage, scoring 10 points before the break. The Rebels used physical play and strong rebounding to control the game, finishing the night with 48 rebounds to Nevada's 27, including 19 second-chance points compared to the Wolf Pack's mere four.
The second half saw UNLV continue their dominant performance, outscoring Nevada by five points and showing consistent offense, particularly from Henley who scored 13 points after halftime. Meanwhile, Sanders attempted to rally the Wolf Pack, scoring 16 points during the second half, but without substantial help from his teammates, Nevada was unable to close the gap.
UNLV's defense was relentless, forcing nine turnovers and effectively limiting Nevada's offensive opportunities. The Rebels excelled at the free throw line as well, making 12 of 12 attempts compared to Nevada’s 12 of 14, illustrating their efficiency during key moments.
Despite UNLV's overall solid performance, concerns linger for both teams as they aim for the upcoming Mountain West tournament. For UNLV head coach Kevin Kruger, the win signifies just part of their pursuit to make the NCAA Tournament, which they have not qualified for since 2013. Kruger remarked on the importance of the victory as they head closer to postseason play.
With this victory, UNLV positions itself for their next matchup against San Diego State, seeking to solidify their standing within the conference. Nevada, meanwhile, will look to bounce back at home against New Mexico, hoping to gain momentum as the regular season nears its conclusion.
Overall, the rivalry game served as not only a battle for state bragging rights but also as a pivotal moment for both teams' seasons, as they each strive for redemption and playoff viability.