Is it possible for the UNLV Runnin' Rebels to reclaim their former glory and become a dominant force in college basketball once again? The appointment of Josh Pastner as the new head coach signals a bold attempt to revive a program steeped in history and tradition, promising a new era for the Runnin' Rebels.

The echoes of past championships and Final Four appearances still resonate within the walls of the Thomas & Mack Center. Since 1983, the Runnin' Rebels have called this arena home, witnessing both triumphs and tribulations. The program, once considered one of the most prestigious in NCAA history, now finds itself at a crossroads. The question is, can Pastner and his new recruits write a new chapter in UNLV's storied legacy?

The news broke in Las Vegas (KTNV) that the UNLV Runnin' Rebels had found their new leader. Josh Pastner, fresh from coaching stints at Memphis and Georgia Tech, was hired as the new head coach for the UNLV men's basketball program, replacing Kevin Kruger, who was fired in March. This move signifies a significant shift in the program's direction, with Pastner tasked with the challenging goal of rebuilding and revitalizing the team.

The coaching staff has been cemented by Josh Pastner for his first season, as he seeks to instill a new philosophy and build a cohesive unit. While the men's team undergoes this transformation, the UNLV women's basketball program has also been active, adding two players via the transfer portal.

The Runnin' Rebels face a daunting task: win four games in four days to advance in the tournament. Furthermore, the team is facing roster constraints, with a limited number of players available. The pressure is on the remaining players to step up and demonstrate their resilience. The team is relying on the support of the Las Vegas community and Rebel Nation to achieve the goal of restoring the program to national prominence.

Josh Pastner - Head Coach, UNLV Runnin' Rebels
Full Name:	Josh Pastner
Date of Birth:	October 18, 1977
Place of Birth:	Miami, Florida
Alma Mater:	University of Arizona
Playing Career:	Played college basketball at the University of Arizona (1996-2000)
Coaching Career:	Assistant Coach, Arizona (2002-2008) Head Coach, Memphis (2009-2016) Head Coach, Georgia Tech (2016-2024) Head Coach, UNLV (2024-Present)
Notable Achievements:	Led Memphis to four NCAA Tournament appearances Won the NIT Championship with Georgia Tech (2019)
Coaching Style:	Known for his defensive strategies and player development.
Quote:	"\u201cthis has always been a dream job for me, and i fully recognize the significance of unlv in the landscape of college basketball,\u201d"
Reference:	Wikipedia - Josh Pastner

The announcement of Pastner's hiring generated immediate buzz, with many anticipating a significant roster overhaul. Josh Pastner has reportedly looked to his former team for his first transfer portal commitment as coach of the UNLV mens basketball team. As Pastner looks to build his roster, a commitment from Arizona freshman center Emmanuel Stephen is set to join the Runnin' Rebels. This addition is crucial to building a team that can compete in a highly competitive conference.

The team is preparing to face Air Force in an upcoming tournament run. With a limited number of players available and a challenging schedule ahead, the Runnin' Rebels have their work cut out for them. The team must win four games in four days to keep their season alive. The official men's basketball news stories archives for the University of Nevada, Las Vegas Rebels, are available.

The Thomas & Mack Center, a familiar venue for UNLV basketball games, hosted a quarterfinal game against the Utah State Aggies in the 2025 Credit Union 1 Mountain West Men's Basketball Championship. While the team navigates through these challenges, the support of the Las Vegas community remains essential.

New recruits, coaching staff changes, and game results are vital for the team's success. The Runnin' Rebels have a history of success, having won the NCAA championship, reached four Final Fours, and played in the Thomas & Mack Center since 1983. The official men's basketball news stories archives for the University of Nevada, Las Vegas Rebels, provides detailed information on the team.

On Wednesday, March 26, 2025, Josh Pastner was introduced at an introductory press conference at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. As the new head coach, Pastner expressed his enthusiasm and gratitude, thanking his family and supporters. The season brings a mix of familiar faces and newcomers. This season's UNLV squad features six returners from last year's team along with 10 newcomers. The newcomers are made up of four Division I transfers, and a junior. The team is looking forward to starting a fresh season.

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