UNLV basketball opens on 21-0 scoring run in home victory

UNLV Rebels guard Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn (0) takes the ball upcourt against the Maryland Terrapins during the second half of a Players Era Championship tournament basketball game at MGM Grand Garden Arena Monday, Nov. 24, 2025. Photo by: Steve Marcus

Four UNLV players scored in double figures Monday night in an 89-47 victory against NAIA La Sierra of California to close nonleague play.

Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn had 19 points and Jacob Bannarbie contributed a game-high 12 rebounds as the Rebels won for the second straight game in improving to 6-6 overall.

“We were supposed to take care of business, and we did,” UNLV coach Josh Pastner said.

UNLV opened the game on a 21-0 scoring run and forced La Sierra into 24 turnovers. The Rebels cleared the bench in giving reserves playing time.

“It gave us a great opportunity to play everybody,” Pastner said. “That’s a really good thing for us because everyone has to stay ready. You just never know. It was a good win for us to close out 2025.”

Tyrin Jones scored 15 points, while Howie Fleming Jr. added 11 and Emmanuel Stephen had 10.

UNLV returns to Mountain West play 2 p.m. Saturday against visiting Air Force at the Thomas & Mack Center. The Rebels on Dec. 20 beat Fresno State in the league opener.