The Runnin’ Rebels faced Grand Canyon on Feb. 25, and UNLV fell 80-67 despite another big night from Dra Gibb-Lawhorn. He scored 30 points for his fourth 30-point game of the season.
Gibb-Lawhorn has showcased his scoring all year, averaging 20.3 points, 3.1 rebounds and 2.7 assists while shooting 50.5 percent from the field. Over UNLV’s last eight games, he has raised that to 28.1 points on 57.9 percent shooting. He has also topped 30 points in three of the last four games, turning into a certified bucket.
He has led the way for the Rebels this season. UNLV is sitting at .500 (14-14) with a 9-8 conference record, and the Rebels have shown real fight despite major turnover. With a largely new roster and coaching staff in place, UNLV has still won four of its last six games. Now the goal is to shake off this loss and get back to stacking wins.
UNLV’s Turning Point
Furthermore, the Rebels will host Nevada on Feb. 28, looking for payback after a tough loss Jan. 30, when the Wolf Pack won 89-76. Defense was the main issue in that matchup, as UNLV allowed Nevada to hit 29 of 50 shots, 58 percent overall.
With the way Gibb-Lawhorn has played lately, the Rebels could have a real edge in the rematch. UNLV is also 8-6 at home this season, while Nevada is 4-6 on the road. On paper, it might not be as close as some expect, and fans are already circling it as a chance to defend the home floor.
UNLV’s Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn Is Taking Over Mountain Western Conference
Jesse Vanderveer is a basketball reporter and writer for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @JesseVanderveer22
