The UNLV Lady Rebels over came a 10 point hole, and horrible calls by the officials to stun and upset the New Mexico Lady Lobos, 57-51.The same Lobos back on Jan 7th, blew out the Rebels, 75-49 in New Mexico.
Coach Olivier and her staff had the Rebels well prepared for the re-match at the Cox Pavilion. The plan and modification were well executed. The players and fans for both sides were into this game.
This is the new era! In that coaches and players working together in harmony to perfect a game plan, make need adjustments, and carry them out on the court.
The standard at UNLV is very clear: Go, Fight, Win !!! Being nationally ranked, Mountain West Championships, and even runs for the National Championship are all earthier expected or in the stated goals.
Shamela Hampton and Jamie Smith teamed up for other set of double -doubles. Brittany Halberg hit 3-pointers during key moments in the game. Starter and bench player worked in many different combinations, that in the end the Lobes didn't have an answer for.
Another key was the much improved free throw shooting. I don't have the exact stats, but can tell you that the rebels missed very few. This closed the gap, and also added points without losing time on the game clock.
The Cox Pavilion had a prize fight like feel to it. New Mexico had some loud fans that made the trip to support them. Rebel Nation was there as well, but it Being National Girls and Women in Sports Day , the numbers were greater. We had a close to the full squad of Cheerleader with Hey Reb as well, and the Band. My family and I did our part, dressed in Rebel gear, and have megaphones we got at the UNLV Bookstore.
After the game we wait for player and coaches to come back up as they left the area for their lives as college students.
Zac and Jenna got a "Kids grow up to be Rebels" poster, and at first had the players sign it, but by the end they had family, event staff, and just about anyone sign it. It was cute, and got a few laughs
I got to talk with Ms. Halberg, and meet Brittany's twin sister. I gave them the web address to this blog, so hopeful they will take a look or comment. Brittany is a favorite of Zac and Jenna. We will miss her as she graduates this year, and start a new chapter in her life.
I also got to talk with Head Coach, Kathy Olivier. I ask her about passes for the upcoming Mountain West Conference Tournament that is again being hosted at the Thomas and Mack Center on the UNLV campus.
We also congratulated other players and coaching staff members as they came through the arena on the way out or to offices.
It was an exciting game, and wonderful event. Just a super way to spend a Saturday afternoon.
The Lady Rebel's are now on the road for the next two games, but will be back in Las Vegas very soon.
No comments:
Post a Comment