The Lady Rebels were tested by in state rivals, UNR on Friday night, and they responded with close to perfection. Beating the Wolfpack, 66-53.The win gives the Lady Rebels their first 3-0 start since the 2002-03 season.
For the first time the Rebels found themselves in a hole. Instead of panic, with a few quick substitutions from the bench, the Rebels regained control, and pulled away. UNR never was knocked out, but with that said it was clear this was the Rebels' game.
Coach Olivier (pictured on right) and her staff can really get the team to respond, and adjust through out the game. This is a wonderful improvement and something this program hasn't seen that much in the past. The Rebels are no long just a one look team, they are showing different attacks and defence. It clear that a specific plan is formulated for each opponent.
The first half was close and a bit rocky with 2 ties and 8 lead changes. UNR lead for a good part of this half, but at halftime it was UNLV with a small 3 point lead.
Insead of being cold and having trouble getting into the second half like in the first two games; The Rebels were a house a fire, with a 18-2 run. This was yet another sign of the range of adjustments this team can make.
This again was a team effort, we are starting to see more players in the mix on the court, boxscores, and in the headlines. The seniors have step up to show the proper leadership. Shannon Oberg and Brittany Halberg are playing inspired basketball. Both are very real threats with the 3 point shot as well.
Shamela Hampton got her second double - double with 16 points and 10 rebounds. Shamela was a physical force as well; one UNR seemed to have no answer for.
There will be some tough tests ahead for the Rebels, But I'm starting to have real expectations that a run for the Mountain West Conference Title, or Tournament championship is real for this year.
What a story that would be, from last to champions in just one season.
After the game, we hung around the Cox Pavilion waiting for the player to return from NCAA Cool down period and any media. It is always great to congradulate, hug, and talk to the players and coaches.
Brittany Halberg's family was in town, and at the game. I have gotten to know her mom some over the years. My children really look up to Brittany, and always have since she first arrived at UNLV. She is a family favorite, and I guess for steve as well. Mrs. Halberg took the two shots that are below, of my family and Brittany as well as Steven and Brittany.
One thing I really love Women's Basketball, and the UNLV program is the amount of access the fans have. We are very much like a big extended family.
Over the years as a season ticket holder, I gotten to know the players. This year I got front row seats. I'm starting to know the families more now. I have a open invitation to watch practices, and the new coach already has a nickname for me after just a few games, trouble =)
Now ,I'm not saying that I'm special in anyway. I believe any fan has the opportunity to do any of the above. The difference is I take advantage of it.
Game day is a process that start hours before,and much planning based on the tip-off time. Steven and I like to arrive about 45 -30 minutes before the start of the game to watch warm ups. It about 35 -45 minutes drive from Steven home to the arena. It about 20 minutes from my place to Steven's. it takes about 15 minutes to get my daughter in UNLV cheerleading outfit, and hair done. My son about 10 minutes to get in Rebel gear, and about 1o for myself as well. Showers for all us is roughly an hour. As I said it can be a real process.
This game had a 7pm start time. Here at my place, we started at about 3pm getting ready. Although I'm not on the court, I do see myself as part of the Lady Rebels Team.
For more infomation on this game or any UNLV athletics, visit http://www.unlvrebels.com/
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