UNLV narrowly avoided a meltdown, advancing in the NIT with a 75-72 victory at UC Irvine.
The Rebels’ big lead nearly evaporated, and the uneven play that plagued them this season resurfaced. Despite this, they managed to secure the road win in the first round of the National Invitation Tournament.
Gibbs-Lawson’s Defensive Play Saves the Day
Dra Gibbs-Lawson provided a crucial lift, scoring 12 points and blocking a shot. With eight seconds remaining, Gibbs-Lawson deflected Jurian Dixon’s 3-point attempt, preventing a tie.
Tyrin Jones secured the rebound, but missed the front end of a one-and-one, giving UC Irvine another chance. UNLV then fouled Dixon, who made two free throws with 3.9 seconds left, cutting the Rebels’ lead to 73-72. Kimani Hamilton was fouled and hit two free throws, extending the lead to three points with 2.9 seconds left.
Derin Saran’s 3-point attempt at the buzzer fell short.
Offensive Contributions and Turnovers
Hamilton led the Rebels with 14 points, while Jones and Issac Williamson each added 13. Hamilton and Jones had thunderous second-half dunks to hold off the Anteaters.
UNLV committed 20 turnovers, which contributed to the stressful finish, especially considering their 18-point lead in the first half.
Gibbs-Lawhorn hit a 3-pointer off a UC Irvine turnover to make it 19-5. He then made another 3-pointer to extend UNLV’s lead to 29-11, marking their largest advantage of the game.
Early Defensive Dominance
UNLV kept UC Irvine’s shooting in check early, with the Anteaters failing to make their first field goal until 12:15 remained in the first half.
The UNLV men’s basketball team didn’t expect to be playing in the postseason after it was eliminated last week by Utah State in the Mountain West tournament quarterfinals.