UNLV Runnin’ Rebels Secure Road Victory Over San Jose State with Season-Best Shooting
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A dominant shooting performance propelled the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels to a 76-62 victory over San Jose State on Saturday, January 17, 2026, marking their second consecutive win and a significant step forward in conference play. The team’s performance showcased a potent offensive attack and stifling defense, solidifying their position as a competitive force in the league.
Rebels Reach New Heights from Beyond the Arc
The UNLV basketball team delivered a season-high performance from 3-point range, connecting on 47.8% of their attempts. They sank 11 3-pointers in total, a key factor in securing the win. This offensive explosion, combined with efficient shooting overall, proved too much for the Spartans to handle.
Climbing the Conference Standings
The victory improved the Runnin’ Rebels’ overall record to 9-8 and their conference record to 4-2. This result signifies a positive trend for the team, having won five of their last seven games. The team is demonstrating increasing consistency as the season progresses.
Fleming Jr. Leads the Charge
Howie Fleming Jr. led the scoring for UNLV with 21 points and a season-high eight assists, showcasing his all-around impact on the game. He was supported by strong performances from three other Rebels who scored in double figures: Tyrin Jones (12 points), Kimani Hamilton (11 points), and Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn (10 points).
Offensive Efficiency Fuels Victory
UNLV’s offense was firing on all cylinders, shooting 54% from the field (27 of 50) and a remarkable 91.7% from the free-throw line (11 of 12). The Rebels’ four leading scorers combined for an impressive 61% shooting percentage from the field (19 of 31). Hamilton was particularly efficient, going a perfect 3-for-3 on 3-pointers and 4-of-5 overall. Fleming Jr. also contributed significantly, hitting 3 of 6 from deep and finishing 6 of 11 from the field. “.
Defensive Dominance Shuts Down Spartans
The Rebels’ defense played a crucial role in the victory, holding the Spartans to just 38.5% shooting in the second half (10 of 26) and 41.3% for the game (19 of 46). Furthermore, UNLV committed a season-low seven turnovers, minimizing opportunities for San Jose State to gain momentum.
Coach Pastner Praises Team’s Competitive Spirit
UNLV coach Josh Pastner lauded his team’s effort and determination in a post-game statement. “Really proud of our guys. Really great win. Winning is hard. Winning on the road is especially hard,” he said. “I told our guys for the last 48 hours, to win this game you’ve got to be so defiant to compete for every inch and you can’t give an inch, that’s what it comes down to. We found a way to really have a high level of compete.”
The Runnin’ Rebels will look to continue their winning streak as they prepare for their next challenge.
