The UNLV Runnin Rebels and Pepperdine Waves face off on Friday in a college basketball showdown at Firestone Fieldhouse.
UNLV Looks to Build on Last Game
UNLV comes into this game with 1-1 record, but they sure looked good in the last game. UNLV gave up only 55 points to Stetson and they ended up winning by 16 points. Luis Rodriguez was a difference maker putting up 15 points, nine rebounds, and three assists. Jalen Hill also finished with 14 points and 13 rebounds. There were three different players that finished with at least 10 points. In the first game against Southern the defense wasn’t good giving up 85 points and that needs to be better here. UNLV on the season is averaging 71 points while their defense is giving up 70 points per game.
Pepperdine Already Playing Fifth game
Pepperdine has been busy early this season and they have already played four games. The only loss for Pepperdine came against UC Davis and they were defeated by only one point. In the last game against LIU, Pepperdine scored 88 points and that was enough to secure the 35 point victory. At halftime they were up 39-18 and they never looked back on the way to the victory. Houston Mallette had a strong game finishing with 24 points, six rebounds, and zero assists. Pepperdine is averaging 79.5 points while their defense is giving up 62.3 points per game.
Shane’s Free Pick
Pepperdine sure has been impressive this season with their offense and they are going to have no issue in this game. Pepperdine scored 88 points in the last game and they are going to have no issue running up the score. Pepperdine might not score 88 points here, they are going to find plenty of success scoring. UNLV is averaging only 71 points per game and Pepperdine is going to cover the spread. Back Pepperdine against the spread.
