UNLV Drops Close One to Northwestern at Arizona Tip-Off, 66–61
In a tough battle at Mullett Arena, UNLV fell just short to Northwestern, 66–61, on November 29 in the Arizona Tip-Off. Despite solid play from several Rebels, the Wildcats used a strong second half and clutch shooting to escape with the win.
Freshman guard Dedan Thomas Jr. continued to show poise beyond his years, leading UNLV with 17 points on 7-of-14 shooting. He also dished out 5 assists and added 2 steals, keeping the Rebels’ offense moving throughout the night.
Off the bench, Jailen Bedford delivered a spark — scoring 15 points on an efficient 6-of-7 from the field, including 2-for-3 from beyond the arc. His energy helped UNLV stay within striking distance as the game tightened late.
Kalib Boone chipped in 8 points, while Jeremiah Cherry dominated the glass with 10 rebounds to go along with 8 points. Cherry’s physicality helped UNLV control the paint, where they outscored Northwestern 32–18.
The Rebels led by as many as 7 in the first half, but Northwestern caught fire after the break, shooting 52% in the second half. The Wildcats were paced by Brooks Barnhizer, who poured in 23 points with 4 made threes, and also collected 9 rebounds and 3 assists.
Jalen Leach added 15 points and Nick Martinelli finished with 12 points and 6 rebounds, helping the Wildcats edge ahead late in the game. Northwestern shot 44.4% from three (8-for-18) and made 18 of their 21 free throws, a key difference in a tight game.
UNLV shot 42.1% overall but went just 5-for-17 from deep and committed 14 turnovers, which Northwestern turned into 13 points.
The loss drops UNLV to 4–3 on the season, while Northwestern improves to 6–2. The Rebels will look to regroup and bounce back in their next outing at the Arizona Tip-Off.
