UNLV basketball secured a narrow victory against UC Irvine, winning 75-72 in the first round of the NIT on March 17, 2026. The game took place at the Brens Events Center in Irvine, California, marking a significant moment for the Rebels as they continue their postseason journey.
Kimani Hamilton led the charge for UNLV, scoring 14 points, while teammates Tyrin Jones and Issac Williamson each contributed 13 points. UNLV built a commanding 18-point lead in the first half, showcasing their offensive capabilities.
Despite the strong start, UNLV faced challenges, committing a total of 20 turnovers throughout the game. This led to a tense finish, as UC Irvine attempted to close the gap. “The Rebels committed 20 turnovers, leading to a stressful finish despite building up an 18-point lead in the first half,” noted a game analyst.
In addition to Hamilton’s performance, Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn added 12 points to the scoreboard, helping UNLV improve their record to 18-16 with this win. The team has shown resilience, winning eight of their last 12 games, a promising trend as they advance in the tournament.
Looking ahead, UNLV will face Tulsa in the next round of the NIT. Tulsa also had a successful first round, defeating Stephen F. Austin 89-84 in overtime. The date for the UNLV vs. Tulsa matchup has yet to be announced, leaving fans eager for details.
As UNLV continues its postseason run, there is hope that a deep tournament performance could provide the momentum needed to rebuild the program into a national contender. “A deep postseason run, even in the NIT, could be exactly the kind of momentum he needs to begin rebuilding UNLV into a program that again matters on the national stage,” commented a sports expert.
This victory against UC Irvine not only advances UNLV in the NIT but also serves as a testament to the team’s growth and determination this season. With the stakes higher than ever, the Rebels are poised to make a significant impact in the tournament.
