The UNLV 99–85 win over Saint Joseph’s on Thursday at the Thomas & Mack Center gave the Runnin’ Rebels their second straight victory and moved them to 3–2 as they prepare for a major early-season showcase in Las Vegas. The UNLV victory came through balanced scoring, transition pressure, and the team’s most efficient offensive stretch of the season.
Rebels Win Behind Gibbs-Lawhorn’s Spark and Bannarbie’s Breakout
UNLV’s guards dictated the pace early in the UNLV vs Saint Joseph’s matchup. Dravyn Gibbs-Lawhorn attacked the rim, connected from three, and pushed the tempo in transition on his way to a team-high 24 points. His scoring burst helped steady the Rebels after a slow first five minutes.
Jacob Bannarbie added 19 points in a breakout performance, finishing through contact and controlling key possessions with timely rebounding. His energy repeatedly shifted momentum during the Rebels win.
Hamilton and Jones Power the Second-Half Separation
Kimani Hamilton contributed 18 points, including a three-pointer early in the second half that helped UNLV regain separation. Freshman forward Tyrin Jones delivered multiple highlight dunks and strong defensive plays that fueled the second-half push.
UNLV forced 17 turnovers, converting many directly into transition baskets that shaped the UNLV victory over Saint Joseph’s.
Head coach Josh Pastner said the team is learning how to sustain runs. “We’re getting better at sustaining our energy,” he said. “When we defend and run, we can be really hard to keep up with.”
UNLV Defeats Saint Joseph’s, Now Turns to Major Las Vegas Tournament
With the Rebels victory secured, UNLV now heads into the Players Era Tournament at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. The Rebels face Maryland on Monday, followed by Alabama on Tuesday, both on national broadcasts. A third matchup awaits Wednesday or Thursday.
Pastner said the upcoming stretch offers valuable tests. “We have great opportunities in front of us,” he said. “Every game helps us get better, and we’ll need to keep improving as we head into this tournament.”
Related Stories
Rebels Outlast Utah State 29-26 in Overtime Thriller at Allegiant Stadium
UNLV 31, Wyoming 17: Special teams blitz powers Rebels to 5–0 start
