Las Vegas, NV — I recently had the opportunity to get a firsthand look at the new-look UNLV Runnin’ Rebels men’s basketball team under first-year head coach Josh Pastner, and while it’s far too early for sweeping evaluations, one thing is already clear: there’s a new energy inside the Mendenhall Center.

Pastner, known for his sideline intensity and player-first culture, is in the early stages of shaping a roster that has intriguing talent and high developmental upside. It would be premature—and frankly unfair—to slap a label on this team in July. But from what I saw, this group is hungry, coachable, and quietly competitive.

One player who caught my attention was 6’9” freshman forward Tyrin Jones, a skilled, long-framed product of Layton Christian Academy—and a Las Vegas native most fans don’t even realize is coming home to suit up for the Scarlet and Gray. His blend of size, timing, and untapped potential could quietly make him one of the Rebels’ sleeper contributors this season.

Another name to circle: 6’8” forward Ladji Dembele, a physical, high-motor presence from St. Benedict’s Prep (NJ). When fully healthy, Dembele is going to be a matchup nightmare in the Mountain West—especially with the pace and versatility Coach Pastner likes to play with.

As for the bigger picture, it’s a work in progress. But there’s a foundation being laid—brick by brick, and you can feel it in the gym. The practices are vocal. The players are bought in. And the coaching staff is grinding.

I’ll be back mid-season with a full breakdown of the Rebels’ progress, identity, and trajectory. But for now, mark it down: there’s something brewing in Las Vegas.

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