UNLV solidified its early-season form with a convincing 80-59 thrashing of Pepperdine in men’s basketball action last night at the Thomas & Mack Center. From the bench, Brooklyn Hicks ignited the offense with a career-high of 16 points, sinking 7 of 11 shots, while Bear Cherry continued his efficient scoring run with 14 points on 5 of 7 shooting. Dedan Thomas Jr.'s sharpshooting added another 13 points to help lift UNLV to a 3-1 record, according to a report from 2News.
In a game that saw UNLV take control from the tipoff, the Runnin' Rebels capitalized on a 9-0 run early in the first half, ramping up their lead to 46-17 by halftime. Despite a second-half comeback that outscored the Rebels by eight points, the Waves couldn't dent the surmountable cushion built up by UNLV's offense. Leading the endeavor for Pepperdine, Stefan Todorovic racked up 19 points in the losing effort, as reported by the UNLV's official athletics website.
Not to be overlooked, UNLV's defensive prowess played a pivotal role, forcing 16 turnovers and holding Pepperdine to a paltry 28.0% shooting in the first half. This defensive chokehold allowed UNLV to capitalize, leading points off turnovers 24-7. The stats highlight how the Rebels controlled the pace and flow of the game, with their shooting numbers impressive: 64.0% from the field and 54.5% on 3-pointers in the first half. "Without question, it was our best 20 minutes," UNLV head coach Kevin Kruger conveyed, as noted on UNLV's official website.
Continuing their streak of statistical dominance, UNLV boasted a strong shooting percentage of 49.1% from the field for the game and an equally potent 50% from beyond the arc. Pape N'Diaye led the rebounding effort with six boards, contributing to a well-rounded team performance. Making at least one 3-pointer in an NCAA-record 1,231 straight games – the Rebels' resiliency and consistency from the perimeter are undeniably record-setting, as per the UNLV athletics website.
The victory sets the stage for UNLV's final game of their homestand against New Mexico State, scheduled for Saturday. Fans eager to see the Runnin' Rebels' momentum continue can purchase tickets through the team's official ticketing channels, ensuring they don't miss a moment of this promising season. With key players sidelined by injuries, the squad's depth was tested, but the Rebels, undeterred, showcased their adaptability and strength— a testament to the team's collective resilience moving forward.
