Nevada gets season-changing win over UNLV 71-65

RENO, Nev. (Nevada Athletics) - Nevada got back on track with a much-needed 71-65 win over in-state rival UNLV on February 1, 2025, at the Lawlor Events Center. The victory not only snapped the Wolf Pack’s three-game losing streak but also marked an important win in the Silver State Series, the annual rivalry competition between the two schools. Nevada’s strong second-half execution and all-around team performance helped them secure the win in front of a lively home crowd.

Nick Davidson led Nevada with 14 points and six rebounds, showing poise at the free-throw line (7-of-9) in clutch moments. Kobe Sanders followed with 13 points, including key second-half buckets to keep Nevada in control. For UNLV, Jaden Henley scored 14 points, while Dedan Thomas Jr. added 12 points and six assists in the loss.

First Half

Nevada faced early shooting struggles, particularly from three-point range, hitting just 2-of-13 from deep (15.4 percent). However, the Wolf Pack stayed competitive by dominating at the free-throw line (9-of-10) and finding success in the paint. Justin McBride provided a first-half spark, scoring 13 points, including a crucial putback dunk that energized the crowd.

UNLV jumped out to a five-point lead early, but Nevada responded with an 8-0 run to reclaim momentum. The lead changed multiple times before Nevada locked in defensively in the final minutes of the half. Davidson knocked down late free throws to give the Wolf Pack a 33-30 lead at halftime.

Second Half

The second half saw Nevada improve their offensive efficiency, shooting 57.9% from the field. Sanders took charge, scoring 9 of his 13 points after the break, including a key mid-range jumper with 10:31 remaining that extended Nevada’s lead to six. UNLV fought back and tied the game at 65-65 with just over a minute to play, but Nevada executed down the stretch.

Xavier DuSell hit a clutch mid range to put Nevada back on top, and Tyler Rolison iced the game with four free throws in the final 30 seconds. Defensively, Brandon Love delivered a crucial block in the closing moments to shut down UNLV’s last attempt at a comeback.

With this Silver State Series victory, Nevada improved to 12-10 overall and 4-7 in Mountain West play. The Wolf Pack will look to build on this momentum as they continue their push through conference action.

Notable Stats:

• Justin McBride provided an early spark for Nevada, finishing with 13 points, 3 rebounds, and 4-of-8 shooting, including a three-pointer and a strong presence inside.
• Brandon Love was efficient in his minutes, contributing 8 points on 3-of-4 shooting, while also adding a rebound and 2 blocks to anchor Nevada’s defense.
• Tyler Rolison played a key role in closing out the game, recording 12 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists while knocking down 6-of-7 free throws to seal the win.
• Daniel Foster did a little bit of everything, finishing with 6 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists, providing steady play on both ends of the court in 28 minutes of action.

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