The Wyoming Cowboys secured a hard-fought 63-61 win against the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels on Tuesday, January 21, marking their first win at the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas since 2003.
This victory also pushed the Cowboys to a 10-9 overall record and 3-5 in Mountain West Conference play.
The Cowboys’ performance was highlighted by a well-rounded offensive and defensive effort. Wyoming shot 50% from beyond the arc, tying a season-high with 14 three-pointers. The team also recorded 18 assists on 22 made baskets, displaying excellent ball movement throughout the game. Obi Agbim led the charge, contributing 19 points, including five three-pointers. He has now scored in double figures in every game he’s played this season.
Wyoming head coach Sundance Wicks expressed his pride in the team’s effort, stating:
“The guys were locked in tonight… it takes special efforts to win in a place we haven’t in 22 years. This was a great game to share the basketball and we did that tonight.”
Wyoming started the game strong, holding UNLV scoreless for the first 2.5 minutes. Despite some early shooting struggles, the Cowboys maintained control, taking a narrow 25-24 lead into halftime after a solid defensive showing that kept UNLV shooting just 31% in the first half.
The second half was tightly contested, with six lead changes. Jordan Nesbitt contributed a double-double, adding 13 points and 12 rebounds, while also dishing out six assists. His performance included a key three-pointer and crucial plays down the stretch that helped the Cowboys extend their lead to 49-43. The Rebels attempted a comeback, but a clutch three-pointer by Kobe Newton with the shot clock winding down gave Wyoming a nine-point lead, which proved to be enough to withstand UNLV’s late rally.
In the final moments, the Rebels made a push, narrowing the gap to 63-61 with under 30 seconds left. However, a missed free throw by Wyoming allowed UNLV a final opportunity to tie the game, but the Cowboys held firm to seal the victory.
UNLV was led by Dedan Thomas Jr., who scored 17 points. Jaden Henley added 15 points, and Jeremiah Cherry contributed a solid all-around performance with 10 points, nine rebounds, and three blocks.
With input from 7220 Sports and ESPN.
