UNLV basketball beats Fresno State to open league play

UNLV Rebels basketball head coach Josh Pastner calls out to players during the first half of a Players Era Championship tournament basketball game against the Maryland Terrapins at MGM Grand Garden Arena Monday, Nov. 24, 2025. Photo by: Steve Marcus

UNLV basketball bounced back in a big way to open Mountain West play.

Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn erupted for a game-high 28 points as the Rebels cruised to an 84-72 victory over visiting Fresno State, shaking off last week’s offensive struggles against Tennessee State.

The Rebels found their rhythm on both ends of the floor. UNLV shot 16-of-26 from the field in the second half, knocked down 19-of-22 free throws, and displayed unselfish play with 20 assists on 28 made baskets—a stark contrast to the team that closed out nonconference play with a loss.

“That was a great win,” coach Josh Pastner said.”

“I thought the game was won by getting those 50/50 loose balls. During the stretch when we were really playing at a high level, our defense was electric, allowing our offense to be at a high level.

UNLV has battled injuries throughout the season, stumbling to a 5-6 record marred by losses to UT Martin, Montana and Tennessee State.

But first-year coach Pastner has insisted all along that his team would be ready when Mountain West play tipped off at the end of December. Saturday night proved him right.

Tyrin Jones was perfect from the field, draining all seven of his shots en route to 18 points. Kimani Hamilton poured in 20 points, while Howie Fleming Jr. added 11 in the balanced attack.