Full Breakdown
UNLV Rebels End Losing Streak with Narrow Victory Over Grand Canyon Antelopes
2/8/2026, 12:31:15 PM
Game Overview
On February 7, 2026, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) Rebels secured an 80-78 victory against the Grand Canyon Antelopes at the Thomas & Mack Center, ending a four-game losing streak. The Rebels, now 11-12 overall and 6-6 in the Mountain West Conference, faced a tense finish after leading by 14 points with just over two minutes remaining. Grand Canyon, in its first year in the conference, fell to 15-8 overall and 9-3 in the league.
Key Performers
Guard Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn was instrumental in the Rebels' win, scoring 29 points, with 20 of those coming in the first half. Despite his strong performance, Gibbs-Lawhorn acknowledged his role in the near-collapse of the game, stating, “Towards the end of the game today, I kind of got out of character a little bit... Luckily, I had my brothers with me tonight. They helped me.” Rebels forward Al Green contributed 13 points, stepping up in the absence of injured starters.
Challenges Faced
The game was marked by foul trouble for the Rebels, which affected their rotation and strategy. Key players Kimani Hamilton and Walter Brown both fouled out in the closing minutes, limiting head coach Josh Pastner's options. Pastner noted, “We’re trying to figure it out... It’s game by game based on foul issues.” The Antelopes capitalized on this, scoring 19 points in their final nine possessions.
Injuries Impacting the Team
UNLV's roster has been significantly impacted by injuries. Freshman forward Tyrin Jones has been sidelined since January 20 due to a shoulder injury, while guard Howie Fleming Jr. missed the game due to an ankle injury. Pastner expressed frustration over the team's injury woes, stating, “Of course, I’m not happy with our record... We’ve had massive injuries in key spots.” He emphasized the need for the team to continue improving despite these setbacks.
Looking Ahead
The Rebels will host San Jose State in their next game, aiming to build on this much-needed victory. Pastner remains optimistic about the team's potential, asserting, “I think we’re a good basketball team. We’ve just got to keep getting better.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “It wasn’t ideal, but we found a way to win. Thank the good Lord.” — Josh Pastner, Head Coach
- “I got shook up a little bit. So that’s my fault. Luckily, I had my brothers with me tonight. They helped me. They kept my head high, and they helped us win this.” — Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn, Guard
- “I feel like I was (ready) tonight, and it translated,” — Al Green, Guard
- “Of course, I’m not happy with our record,” — Josh Pastner, Head Coach
This victory not only halted the Rebels' losing streak but also highlighted the resilience of the team amidst ongoing challenges.
