UNLV Runnin' Rebels Forward Kimani Hamilton Shines in Win Over San Jose State

Hamilton's double-double performance leads UNLV to crucial victory ahead of matchup with Boise State

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The UNLV Runnin' Rebels men's basketball team defeated the San Jose State Spartans 82-75 on Tuesday night, with senior forward Kimani Hamilton leading the way with 23 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 assists. Head coach Josh Pastner praised Hamilton's performance, especially his ability to stay on the floor without getting into foul trouble, which has been an issue in the past. Hamilton spoke about the team's need to "go out there and fight" in the victory.

Why it matters

The win was an important one for UNLV as they look to build momentum heading into a big matchup with the Boise State Broncos in a few days. Hamilton's standout performance will be crucial if the Rebels want to continue their success and improve their overall record this season.

The details

Hamilton shot 6-9 from the field, 3-4 from three-point range, and 8-9 from the free-throw line in the victory. His double-double effort helped the Rebels overcome the Spartans and pick up a much-needed conference win.

  • The game took place on Tuesday, February 11, 2026.

The players

Kimani Hamilton

A senior forward for the UNLV Runnin' Rebels men's basketball team who had a standout performance in the win over San Jose State, scoring 23 points with 10 rebounds and 4 assists.

Josh Pastner

The head coach of the UNLV Runnin' Rebels men's basketball team, who praised Hamilton's ability to stay on the floor and contribute without getting into foul trouble.

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What they’re saying

“Good win for the Rebels. Winning is hard. I was really proud of our guys. I'm not happy with our win-loss record, but we have improved. From where we were at the beginning of November to where we are now, we are a better team. That's a testament to our guys.”

— Josh Pastner, UNLV Runnin' Rebels Head Coach (si.com)

“I told him after the game Saturday, I said, 'Kimani, for crying out loud, goodness gracious, how could you foul out or be in foul trouble?' Pastner said. ''Your parents can barely see you play. This is ridiculous. They're leaving on Wednesday, and you're going to let them go home and not see you play? Will you please stay in the game? He was able to stay in the game and he was great tonight. Really proud of him defending without fouling.”

— Josh Pastner, UNLV Runnin' Rebels Head Coach (si.com)

“If that's what it takes. Maybe there's an NIL deal — some airline and hotel that can bring them out every time. Whatever it takes for him to stay in the game. … We're a better team when he's on the floor.”

— Josh Pastner, UNLV Runnin' Rebels Head Coach (si.com)

“You just got to go out there and fight whoever you're out there with.”

— Kimani Hamilton, UNLV Runnin' Rebels Senior Forward (si.com)

What’s next

The Rebels will face a tough matchup against the Boise State Broncos in a few days, and Hamilton's continued strong play will be crucial for UNLV's success in that game.

The takeaway

Kimani Hamilton's standout performance in the win over San Jose State demonstrates the importance of the senior forward to the UNLV Runnin' Rebels' success this season. His ability to stay on the floor and contribute without getting into foul trouble, as emphasized by head coach Josh Pastner, will be key as the team looks to build momentum heading into a crucial matchup with Boise State.