UNLV Rebels (ATS) ..

While Nevada might slightly be ahead of UNLV in the KenPom efficiency rankings, it's not by much. The Wolfpack are 16-12 this season and are actually below UNLV in the Mountain West standings. Moving up to the top five would do wonders for either team, and allow them to play one less game in the MWC tournament. Having said that, this is a massive game for both teams. Nevada has lost 67% of its away games this year.

On the other hand, UNLV has won 67% of its home games. The Rebels could be without their top scorer in Dedan Thomas (status uncertain) which is a killer. However, they should be able to handle it with the amount of quality guard play that they have. The Rebels beat SJST on the road on Tuesday and have two really tough games against SDST & UNM to finish the year, meaning a win here would go a very long way.

Having said all of that, I've got to go with the home team. Getting the Rebels as a slight underdog seems like a gift to me in this spot. Both teams are around the same level and this is a great revenge position for UNLV. Hammer the Rebels on Friday evening.

Score Prediction: 69-63 UNLV.