LAS VEGAS — In front of a lively home crowd, the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels took the court for an exhibition matchup against Brigham Young University on Saturday. Coach Josh Pastner said the game was an early test of the identity he wants his squad to carry into the regular season.
Coach Pastner’s vision for the Rebels
“We want to play a brand of basketball that UNLV fans can love,” Pastner told Sports Director Bryan Salmond. “That means energy, toughness, effort and competing on every possession.” He emphasized that the exhibition is more than a final score; it’s an opportunity to evaluate talent, build chemistry and cement a style that reflects the passion of Las Vegas supporters.
Key moments from the exhibition
The Rebels displayed a high‑tempo offense, pushing the ball up the court quickly and looking for transition opportunities. Defensively, they showed aggression, challenging BYU’s shooters and forcing several turnovers. While the final tally was not the focus, the team’s hustle and communication were evident, earning nods from the crowd and reinforcing Pastner’s message of relentless effort.
What the game means for Rebel Nation
For UNLV fans, the exhibition offered a glimpse of what to expect this season. Pastner highlighted that setting the right tone early helps earn the support of “Rebel Nation,” a phrase he uses to describe the city’s dedicated fan base. He added that the team’s commitment to playing with heart will be crucial as they face conference opponents later in the year.
Looking ahead
With the regular season on the horizon, the coaching staff will use the insights gained from the BYU game to fine‑tune rotations and strategies. Pastner said the next steps include sharpening execution on both ends of the floor and continuing to foster the camaraderie that emerged during the exhibition.
“We’re building something special here,” Pastner concluded. “Our goal is to give Las Vegas a team they can be proud of, one that plays with the energy and determination our city deserves.”
Original reporting: News 3 KSNV Las Vegas (local) — read the source article.
