Las Vegas – In a ceremony that highlighted the city’s own basketball talent, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas retired the No. 23 jersey of former Lady Rebels star Desi‑Rae Young on Friday night. The honor, the first jersey retirement for the women’s program in 23 years, was presented ahead of UNLV’s home opener against UT San Antonio.
Young’s historic college career
Young, a graduate of Desert Oasis High School, leaves UNLV as one of the most decorated players in program history. Over four seasons she amassed 2,017 points and 1,081 rebounds, becoming only the second Rebel to reach both milestones. Her scoring total ranks second all‑time for the school, while her rebounding total places her fourth.
The former All‑American and two‑time Mountain West Player of the Year helped guide the Lady Rebels through a period of unprecedented success. From 2022 through 2024 UNLV captured three consecutive Mountain West regular‑season and tournament championships and earned three straight NCAA Tournament berths. In the 2024 tournament Young set a program record with 30 points in a first‑round game against Creighton.
From Las Vegas to the world stage
After graduating, Young continued her basketball journey overseas, playing professionally in Rwanda and Israel. She contributed to Hapoel Rishon LeZion’s championship run in the 2025‑26 season, further demonstrating the talent that grew up on the Strip.
Friday night celebration
The jersey‑retirement ceremony was followed by a 69–51 victory over UT San Antonio, giving the Lady Rebels their first win of the season. Freshman guard Jasmyn Lott led the team with 22 points, while head coach Lindy La Rocque celebrated her 150th career victory.
UNLV improves to 1–1 on the season and will return to The Pavilion on Tuesday, Nov. 10, to host Arizona State at 6:30 p.m.
Community pride
For Las Vegas fans, the event was a reminder of the city’s deep ties to college athletics. Young’s achievement underscores the importance of supporting local talent and the role that UNLV plays in showcasing the city’s sports heritage.
Original reporting: News 3 KSNV Las Vegas (local) — read the source article.
