Full Breakdown
Rutgers Basketball Ends Losing Streak with Victory Over UNLV
11/28/2025, 1:21:13 PM
Game Overview
Rutgers men's basketball secured an 80-65 victory against UNLV on November 27, 2025, concluding the Players Era Tournament in Las Vegas. This win marked the end of a three-game losing streak for the Scarlet Knights, improving their record to 5-3, while UNLV fell to 3-5.
Key Performers
Emmanuel Ogbole delivered a standout performance, achieving career highs with 21 points and 13 rebounds. He shot 7-for-12 from the field and dominated the boards, contributing significantly to Rutgers' success. Dylan Grant also played a crucial role, scoring 17 points and grabbing eight rebounds, while Darren Buchanan Jr. added 15 points, all scored in the second half. Tariq Francis contributed 11 points to the team's total.
Game Dynamics
The game began competitively, with both teams exchanging leads. UNLV entered halftime with a 39-33 advantage, bolstered by a late 10-4 run. However, the second half saw a dramatic shift as Rutgers opened with an 11-0 run, quickly taking control of the game. The Scarlet Knights outscored UNLV 47-26 in the second half, showcasing improved shooting and defensive efforts.
Statistical Highlights
Rutgers shot 47.8% from the field in the second half and excelled at the free-throw line, converting 22 of 27 attempts. The Scarlet Knights also dominated the rebounding battle, finishing with a 45-33 advantage and scoring 16 second-chance points compared to UNLV's seven. In contrast, UNLV struggled offensively, shooting just 4-of-21 in the second half.
Official Statements & Responses
UNLV head coach Josh Pastner acknowledged Rutgers' performance, stating, "Credit to Rutgers. We were up 39-33 at halftime, but they came out with more energy to start the second half." He noted the impact of injuries on his team's depth, which contributed to their struggles throughout the tournament.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the victory, the game highlighted UNLV's ongoing challenges, particularly their lack of depth due to injuries to key players, including Jacob Bannarbie, Myles Che, Ladji Dembele, and Emmanuel Stephen. This situation has raised concerns about the team's competitiveness as they prepare for upcoming conference play.
What's Next
Rutgers will return home to face No. 1 Purdue on December 1, 2025, followed by a matchup against No. 7 Michigan on December 6. Meanwhile, UNLV will have a week off before traveling to Stanford on December 7.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Credit to Rutgers. We were up 39-33 at halftime, but they came out with more energy to start the second half,” — Josh Pastner, UNLV Head Coach
- “It was pretty much a tale of two halves.” — Josh Pastner, UNLV Head Coach
- “We need to get healthy first and foremost.” — Josh Pastner, UNLV Head Coach
This victory not only boosts Rutgers' morale but also sets the stage for challenging upcoming games against top-ranked opponents.
