UNLV Rebels Face Struggling Air Force Falcons Tonight

LAS VEGAS, Nevada — The UNLV Rebels (12-12, 6-7 MWC) will try to end a three-game home losing streak when they host the Air Force Falcons (3-21, 0-13 MWC) on February 11, 2025, at 10:00 PM ET at Thomas & Mack Center. After defeating Wyoming 68-57 in their last game, the Rebels are looking to maintain momentum against a faltering Falcons team struggling to find their footing.

UNLV’s win over Wyoming was led by sophomore guard Dedan Thomas Jr., who scored 18 points and contributed crucial rebounds and assists. For the Rebels, consistency has been key, and Thomas has been a pivotal player with an average of 16.3 points and 4.6 assists per game this season.

Meanwhile, the Air Force Falcons are attempting to snap a 14-game losing streak and are still searching for their first Mountain West victory of the season. They remain last in the conference and overall, showcasing a tough season marked by a lack of scoring and difficult defensive matchups.

Ethan Taylor, the Falcons’ standout, averages 15.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game. However, he struggled in the Falcons’ most recent matchup, where they fell to New Mexico 88-53. Taylor’s performance included eight points and six turnovers, raising questions about his ability to guide the team as they seek a turnaround.

An important aspect of the Rebels’ strategy will revolve around building on their recent success. With an overall scoring average of 70.5 points per game and a favorable home record of 8-4, UNLV is poised to capitalize on Air Force’s weaknesses, especially in defense, where they allow an average of 72.4 points per game.

“This is a crucial game for us to build momentum going into a tough stretch of the season,” Thomas noted after the Rebels’ last game. “We know we have to protect our home court and keep pushing towards the goal of postseason play.”

The last encounter between these two teams took place on December 31, 2024, where UNLV pulled off a convincing 77-58 victory in Colorado Springs. Tonight’s matchup is expected to be another opportunity for the Rebels to assert control, especially with support from their home crowd.

In addition to Thomas, other key players for UNLV include Jailen Bedford, who recorded 14 points against Wyoming, and Jaden Henley, who has been strong on the defensive end. The Rebels will look to use their home-court advantage as an extra incentive to secure a much-needed win.

Fans can tune in to watch the game through the Mountain West Conference Network, with live streaming available through various platforms, including FUBO and YouTube TV. As always, this matchup presents a significant chance for bettors, with UNLV holding a 15-point spread against the Falcons. The game will also be broadcasted on ESPN Radio 1100 AM.