The Runnin’ Rebels (7-5, 1-0) will be dancing with the Air Force Falcons (3-9, 0-1) as they continue Mountain West play on New Year’s Eve. The Runnin’ Rebels lead the series against the Falcons 47-16. UNLV currently has a one game winning streak over the Falcons with their last win occurring on February 21, 2024, 72-43.
The Runnin’ Rebels come into this game after a 10-point win over the Fresno State Bulldogs to earn their first conference win of the season.
The Air Force Falcons are heading into this game on a two-game losing streak. Their last loss came at the hands of Boise State, 77-59. The Falcons are led by senior guard Ethan Taylor, averaging 14.8 points per game and 6.0 rebounds per game.
The Runnin’ Rebels are led by guard Dedan Thomas, Jr., averaging 16.8 points per game and 4.3 assists per game. The Runnin’ Rebels are averaging 72.8 points per game this season. The key for the Runnin’ Rebels is to put the defensive clamps on the Falcons. They kept the Bulldogs to only six offensive rebounds.
Against the Bulldogs, the Runnin’ Rebels shot about 53.8% from the floor. That was the second time this season that the Runnin’ Rebels have shot above 50% from the floor.
When asked his feelings about facing Air Force, coach Kevin Kruger said, “We are extremely excited about it and now will get ready for another very unique challenge coming up (at Air Force).”
The Runnin’ Rebels tango with the Falcons on Tuesday, December 31 at Clune Arena at 1 p.m. PST/2 p.m. MST.
