Preview: San Diego State Looks to Rebound at UNLV

LAS VEGAS (Interstat) — The San Diego State Aztecs aim to bounce back from a last-second nonconference loss when they visit the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels in a Mountain West clash Saturday at the Thomas & Mack Center.

San Diego State (13-5, 5-1 MW) saw its six-game win streak snapped Wednesday in a 70-69 road loss to Grand Canyon. The Aztecs, who have been a fixture in the AP Top 25 this season, had previously won eight of nine, including a key 83-79 victory over New Mexico last weekend.

UNLV (10-8, 4-2) enters on a three-game win streak, most recently an 86-76 victory at Utah State on Tuesday. The Rebels have found momentum after a shaky start to league play, winning four of their last five conference games.

A key matchup will feature two of the league’s hottest players. San Diego State’s Miles Byrd has been a versatile force, averaging 12.6 points, 4.9 assists and 2.0 blocks over his last seven games. He scored 21 points with four blocks in the win over New Mexico.

UNLV counters with dynamic guard Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn, who is averaging 18.0 points over the same stretch. He erupted for 33 points and six assists in an overtime win over Boise State on Jan. 13 and scored 21 at Utah State.

The Aztecs have dominated the recent series, winning 12 of the last 13 meetings. UNLV’s last win was in the 2020 Mountain West tournament. However, the Rebels are 8-3 at home this season, while San Diego State is 3-3 in true road games.

San Diego State’s defense, which allows just 65.2 points per game, will be tested by a UNLV offense averaging 78.6 points at home. The Aztecs will look to control the paint, where they hold a +7.2 rebounding margin.

A win would keep San Diego State near the top of the Mountain West standings, while UNLV seeks a statement victory to bolster its postseason resume.

Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. PST.