The UNLV men's basketball team achieved a notable victory, winning their first-round game against UC Irvine in the NIT by a score of 75-72. The Runnin' Rebels showcased a strong performance with five players scoring in double digits, led by Kimani Hamilton's 14 points. Despite a strong start giving them an 18-point lead, UNLV faced a comeback from UCI, who narrowed the deficit to just one point late in the game. Ultimately, clutch free throws by Hamilton sealed their win as UCI's last-second shot fell short.

By the Numbers
  • UNLV shot 54% from the field, while holding UCI to 24.2% in the first half.
  • UC Irvine attempted 25 free throws, scoring 19, compared to UNLV's 13 attempts (6 made).
State of Play
  • The Runnin' Rebels have won eight of their last 12 games.
  • UNLV will face No. 1 seed Tulsa in the NIT's second round, expected on March 21 or 22.
What's Next

UNLV is set to travel to face a formidable Tulsa team, aiming to continue their momentum in the tournament. The specific game details will be announced soon, ramping up anticipation among fans.

Bottom Line

This victory underscores UNLV's ability to perform under pressure, particularly on the road, and sets a promising stage for their advancing tournament run.