Source link : https://las-vegas-news.com/unlv-rebels-charge-into-nit-with-championship-ambitions-after-surprise-bid/
A Shocking Postseason Lifeline (Image Credits: Upload.wikimedia.org)
Las Vegas – The UNLV Runnin’ Rebels men’s basketball team discovered an unexpected extension to their season when they secured a bid to the National Invitation Tournament. Eliminated from the Mountain West Conference tournament just days earlier, the Rebels quickly shifted focus to a postseason opportunity many had not anticipated. Coach Josh Pastner and his players expressed immediate enthusiasm for the chance to compete further and build momentum.[1][2]
A Shocking Postseason Lifeline
The Rebels entered Selection Sunday without firm expectations of postseason play. They had fallen to top-seeded Utah State 80-60 in the Mountain West quarterfinals at the Thomas & Mack Center. That loss capped a 1-1 tournament showing after an opening-round victory over Wyoming.
UNLV wrapped the regular season with a 17-16 overall record and 11-9 mark in conference play. The team notched four wins against Quad 1 opponents, a feat that caught the eye of tournament selectors. Pastner waited for the NIT bracket reveal before rallying the squad, confirming their inclusion as an unseeded participant.[1]
Players Fire Up with Unwavering Resolve
Reactions poured in swiftly once the news broke. Guard Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn recalled a nap interrupted by Pastner’s call. “I remember I was taking a nap, and I woke up with Coach Pastner calling,” he said. “He said we were playing on Tuesday night, and that we were leaving…
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Author : Matthias Binder
Publish date : 2026-03-17 19:37:00
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