Dedan Thomas Jr. led the way with 19 points and five assists as UNLV defeated San Diego State 76-68 on Saturday night, improving to 11-7 overall and 5-2 in Mountain West Conference play. The Rebels’ strong second half and balanced scoring helped them hold off the Aztecs, who dropped to 11-5 overall and 4-3 in conference play.
Key Highlights
- Dedan Thomas Jr.’s Leadership: Thomas was the standout for UNLV, scoring 12 of his 19 points in the second half. His scoring and playmaking helped the Rebels maintain their lead and ultimately secure the win.
- Balanced Scoring: Brooklyn Hicks added 13 points on an efficient 5-of-7 shooting, while Jaden Henley finished with 12 points, including a perfect 6-for-6 effort from the free-throw line. The Rebels displayed depth and balance, with multiple players contributing key points at important moments.
- San Diego State’s Fight: Miles Byrd led the Aztecs with 21 points, while Nicholas Boyd chipped in 16 points. BJ Davis also contributed with 10 points and four steals. However, the Aztecs were unable to overcome UNLV’s strong second-half performance.
Key Takeaways
- UNLV’s Strong Second Half: The Rebels maintained control throughout the game, leading 31-23 at halftime. Thomas’s strong second-half performance helped them fend off a late challenge from the Aztecs.
- San Diego State’s Offensive Struggles: While Byrd and Boyd provided scoring, the Aztecs struggled to find offensive rhythm, especially from the field. They shot 40.4% as a team, and their shooting struggles limited their ability to mount a comeback.
Key Stat
UNLV’s defensive effort, holding San Diego State to just 23 points in the first half, set the tone for the game. Their ability to control the pace and limit SDSU’s scoring opportunities was critical in securing the win.
Next Games
- UNLV: The Rebels will look to build on this victory when they face their next Mountain West opponent, aiming to stay near the top of the conference standings.
- San Diego State: The Aztecs will look to bounce back and regroup as they prepare for their next Mountain West matchup, hoping to improve their record and maintain a strong position in the conference.
