UNLV: Go, Fight, Dance!

UNLV proved last night, in case there was doubt, that they are ready for tournament play in the NCAAs. They led most of the way against BYU. And, when the game was close in the last 4 minutes of play, the Rebels responded with suffocating defense and poise. The BYU Cougars, despite Fredette's 30 points, left the Thomas and Mack once more without a chance to win the MWC tournament.

Tre'Von Willis added 18 points in an effort that went far beyond his offensive capability. His team played an all around effort. And, if there is any doubt who's team it is that was settled last night in the post game conference when Chace Stanback added, "He's our leader...a warrior...and we follow him." Willis re-agitated his former sprained ankle and it will be interesting to see if Kendall Wallace starts in his place tonight in the championship game against SDSU.

Despite UNLV's excellent performance, this website still lists another MWC opponent as the winners of tonight's game. New Mexico was listed as the victor for several weeks, but after their loss, SDSU is now listed as the champion. Could UNLV prove more doubters wrong tonight? There is no doubt that the bitter taste SDSU left the Rebs last season (as the road block to UNLV's post season chances) will be a fresh motivator for tonight's battle.

Regardless of the outcome, the Rebs solidified their place in the NCAA tourney this year and should be proud of their performance over the last 3 weeks. A win tonight would not only be an excellent way to end conference but, of course, a needed momentum builder entering the big dance. The Rebels, in my opinion, could also give themselves a 7 seed with a win tonight. If not, they look at a 8/9 match-up. As college basketball fans know all too well, however, every game is unpredictable in the big dance and the number does not matter as much as the players' focus that enter those games.

One thing certain? UNLV is a defensive-minded squad who is playing very well at just the right time.