The UNLV Runnin’ Rebels (8-5, 2-0) flew high against the Air Force Falcons (3-10,0-2), winning 77-58.
Consistency is Key
The Runnin’ Rebels stayed consistent from the floor, shooting 57.1% from the floor, 56.3% from the three-point line, and 52.2% from the free-throw line. Julian Rishwain led the Runnin’ Rebels with 16 points, three rebounds, and went 2-for-2 from the free-throw line. Jaden Henley added 14 points, grabbed down four rebounds, and went 6-for-10 from the field. The Runnin’ rebels outshot the Falcons 57.1% to 33.3%.
Defense wins games
The Falcons were held to only 33.3% from the field and 22.9% from the three-point line. The Runnin’ Rebels also outrebounded the Falcons 37-32. This is the second straight game that the Runnin’ Rebels have outrebounded their opponents.
In a post-game press conference, coach Kevin Kruger said, “(Asked what has been working during the three-game win streak) “We are sticking together, doing what each other expects to do. In the six halves that we have played since we got back from Dayton, we have had five pretty good ones. We are continuing to learn each other and play for each other. I thought today, minus a little stretch where they hit back-to-back 3-pointers in the second half, we were about as disciplined and had the most conviction in terms of what we wanted to do and what we wanted to be like from the scouting report in practice to the game and that’s why we were able to have a steady offense and defense throughout today.”
What’s Next for the Runnin’ Rebels?
UNLV improved their all-time record against Air Force 48-16. The Runnin’ Rebels will host the San Jose State Spartans at the Thomas & Mack Center on Saturday, January 4th at 3 p.m.
