UNLV Rebels Face Rival Nevada Wolf Pack After Tough Home Loss

Rebels look to rebound after decisive defeat against New Mexico Lobos

Jan. 31, 2026 at 12:55am

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The UNLV Runnin' Rebels are facing a critical juncture in their season after a decisive 89-61 loss to the New Mexico Lobos at home. The defeat marked the Rebels' second consecutive loss at the Thomas & Mack Center, bringing their Mountain West Conference record to 5-4 and their overall record to an even .500 at 10-10. Head coach Josh Pastner acknowledged the unacceptable nature of the losses and identified a lack of initial aggression as a key factor. The Rebels now face a quick turnaround as they prepare to travel to Reno for a Friday night matchup against their in-state rivals, the Nevada Wolf Pack.

Why it matters

A two-game losing streak, particularly at home, can significantly impact a team's momentum and confidence. The Rebels' response to this adversity will be a key indicator of their resilience and potential for success in the remainder of the season. The rivalry game against Nevada also holds high stakes, as the Rebels look to bounce back and defeat their in-state foes on the road.

The details

UNLV's head coach Josh Pastner did not mince words following the loss to New Mexico, stating plainly, 'Credit to New Mexico. Bottom line, we got our butts kicked.' He emphasized the unacceptable nature of the two-game homestand loss and identified a lack of initial aggression as a key factor. 'They had a hit-first mentality, and we had a soft-first mentality. We've got to be better,' Pastner said. The Rebels now face a quick turnaround as they prepare to travel to Reno to take on the Nevada Wolf Pack, who are coming off a 66-60 victory over Grand Canyon. Nevada currently holds a 7-3 record in the Mountain West, placing them just two games behind the conference leader, and boasts an overall record of 15-6.

  • The UNLV Runnin' Rebels have a 5-4 record in Mountain West Conference play as of January 28, 2026.
  • The upcoming game against Nevada is scheduled for Friday, January 30, 2026.

The players

Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn

The Rebels' top offensive player, Gibbs-Lawhorn will be looking to rebound after a challenging performance against New Mexico, where he scored just eight points on 3-of-11 shooting. With Tyrin Jones dealing with an injury, Gibbs-Lawhorn may be relied upon even more heavily.

Elijah Price

The key player for the Nevada Wolf Pack, Price leads the team in rebounds (8.8 per game), steals (1.3 per game), and blocks (2.0 per game), and will likely be a significant obstacle to UNLV's offensive efforts.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.