The UNLV Runnin” Rebels men”s basketball team is set to take part in the Players Era Festival at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, starting with a matchup against the Maryland Terrapins on Monday night. In anticipation of this event, head coach Josh Pastner shared his insights on the festival and its importance for the program.
Pastner noted, “It was kind of the top of the top, but now it has become the Players Era that is the top of the top. Even though there are 18 teams, it feels like it”s a Sweet 16 all in one location.” He emphasized the evolving landscape of college basketball, particularly the financial aspects that come into play in today”s game. “You have to find ways to think outside the box to generate money to be able to pay the guys,” he explained, highlighting the necessity for programs to adapt to current realities.
Reflecting on the changes over the past decade, Pastner stated, “Ten years ago, we wouldn”t be talking about this. If I said that, I”d probably be arrested by the NCAA. But now, you have to be involved in things and find ways to raise money to be able to increase your budget in order to continue to compete at the level you want to compete at.” He acknowledged that while acquiring top talent is crucial, it is not the sole factor in achieving success on the court.
Addressing the upcoming challenges, Pastner said, “I assume the next four games we will be underdogs, and that”s OK. Just like we don”t have any margin of error no matter who we play, those teams are going to have to play well to beat us.” He expressed confidence in his team”s abilities, stating, “I think our team is really good. I think we”re a good basketball team, especially when we have our full complement of guys, but there”s no denying this is a challenging stretch.” Pastner remains optimistic, asserting, “We believe we can fight with these teams, so we”re going to come out and show something. Getting the opportunity is great, but we”re going to come fight.”
