The UNLV Runnin’ Rebels fell to Big 12 opponent Utah 79-69 in their first exhibition game at the Thomas & Mack Center. The team was without several leading players due to injuries and senior guard AJ Storr, who remains ineligible.
Utah shot 43 percent from three-point range and had a stretch of six straight baskets from distance, helping them lead 45-35 at halftime. UNLV’s Sebastian Mack scored 12 points and grabbed four rebounds in the first 20 minutes before finishing with 25 points and eight rebounds in 31 minutes, though he left the game late with cramps.
Coach Josh Pastner said the game was a good opportunity to face different competition, noting they would review film to improve and correct mistakes. He also commented on Mack’s performance, saying he over-dribbled in the first half but was more efficient after halftime and earned praise for getting six defensive rebounds.
UNLV will next host BYU on October 24 in their second exhibition game, followed by a final exhibition against Missouri on October 29.
Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal
Original reporting: Las Vegas Review-Journal →
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