Nevada Wolf Pack vs UNLV Rebels
Sunday, March 1, 2026
Matchup Analysis
This NCAAB matchup features Nevada Wolf Pack (19-9 (14-2)) traveling to take on UNLV Rebels (14-14 (8-6)) at Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas, NV. The Nevada hold a clear statistical edge this season, outperforming the UNLV by 3.6 points per game in scoring margin. That differential will be a key factor in this matchup.
On offense, UNLV averages 79.4 points per game, which exceeds what the Nevada defense typically allows (71.5 PPG). That mismatch could give the home side opportunities to exploit. Meanwhile, Nevada scores 75.8 PPG but faces a UNLV defense that limits opponents to 78.8 PPG. The home team's defensive effort could be the difference-maker.
Home court advantage is worth approximately 3.5 points in NCAAB, and UNLV will look to leverage their home crowd. Our model sees this as essentially a coin-flip game, projecting just a 1.8-point margin. Expect a tight finish. The 68% confidence interval ranges from UNLV winning by 11 to losing by 15.
Our model aligns closely with the market on this one, suggesting the oddsmakers have priced this game efficiently. Look for small edges in the total and moneyline markets to capitalize on any remaining value.
Team Comparison
NEV Nevada
Stat
UNLV UNLV
19-9 (14-2)
Record
14-14 (8-6)
Last 10
75.8
PPG
79.4
71.5
Opp PPG
78.8
Current Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| NEV Nevada Wolf Pack | 0 ↑ | -1.5 | O 151.5 |
| UNLV UNLV Rebels | 0 ↓ | +1.5 | U 151.5 |
Source: Draft Kings Updated: Feb 28, 5:44 AM
Opening line: +1.5 / O/U 151.5
Model Projection
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| NEV Nevada Wolf Pack | -105 | -1.8 | O 155.2 |
| UNLV UNLV Rebels | +105 | +1.8 | U 155.2 |
Source: Model Updated: Feb 28, 5:05 AM
Our Picks
Spread
Pass
Model: 1.8 | Edge below threshold
Total
Pass
Model: 155.2 | Edge below threshold
Recent Trends
UNLV enters at 14-14 (8-6), hovering around the .500 mark. They've shown flashes of strong play but haven't been able to sustain consistency. At home, they'll look to put together a complete performance and build momentum.
Nevada sits at 19-9 (14-2) on the season. They've been competitive in most outings but have had their share of inconsistent performances. On the road, they'll need to bring their best effort to come away with a win.
When these teams meet, the home team typically has the edge given the crowd advantage and familiarity factor. The team that controls tempo and limits turnovers will likely dictate the outcome of this matchup.
Matchup Edges
UNLV
Advantages
- Home court advantage and crowd support
- Strong offense averaging 79.4 PPG
- Familiarity with home venue and routines
Disadvantages
- Defense allows 78.8 PPG — a vulnerability
- Potential for inconsistency in key moments
Nevada
Advantages
- Strong 19-9 (14-2) overall record this season
- Potent offense averaging 75.8 PPG
- Road underdog motivation — play with less pressure
Disadvantages
- Playing on the road without home crowd support
- Road fatigue and travel can impact energy levels