The UNLV Runnin’ Rebels (5-5) came up close to topping the No. 22 Dayton Flyers (10-2), losing 65-66.
Oh, So Close
With 37 seconds left in the game, Dayton’s Malachi Smith got a fast break layup to give Dayton the one point lead. Julian Rishwain answered for the Runnin’ Rebels. Smith came back with a basket and was fouled, sinking both free-throws to close out the close game. Guard Dedan Thomas, Jr. attempted a game-winning shot at the buzzer but missed. Thomas still scored a game-high 16 points, along with Jaden Henley who scored 15 points, and Julian Rishwain with 12.
Leading the Way
Although the Runnin’ Rebels came up short, they still managed no turnovers the entire game. They also led for most of the game. At the half, the Runnin’ Rebels were up by one, 28-27. Henley led the Runnin’ Rebels in rebounds, grabbing seven and he went 5-of-8 from the floor, sinking all five of his free throw attempts. Henley even recorded a steal.
What’s Next for the Runnin’ Rebels?
In the post-game press conference, head coach Kevin Kruger said, “It was a great atmosphere and turned out to be a great college basketball game, but there are things that we need to clean up. We need to keep taking steps to get better. We will have some good teaching points from this game, both positive and on the other side. This was a heartbreaker. We will have a really good couple of days of practices and be ready to get back out there to play on Saturday.”
This was only the second time that the two teams faced off against each other. The series is tied 1-1.
The Runnin’ Rebels are back at home on Saturday, December 21st to square off against the UC Riverside Highlanders at 12 p.m. at the Thomas & Mack Center.
