UNLV Gives Josh Pastner a Third Shot at Coaching Success
Josh Pastner, a dedicated recruiter, has reconstructed UNLV's roster with transfers from various programs, including Illinois, Alabama, High Point, Texas-Rio Grande, Louisiana Tech, and even a player from New Zealand.
Pastner's Coaching Journey
Since departing Arizona's coaching staff in 2008, Pastner has evolved from a promising young coach into a 48-year-old veteran with mixed results at Memphis and Georgia Tech. His career head coaching record stands at 276-187, a 59% win rate.
Known for his persuasive approach, Pastner made a strong case for leading the struggling UNLV program, becoming the school’s 10th head coach since Jerry Tarkanian’s departure in 1991. Remarkably, UNLV has even had a father and son, Lon and Kevin Kruger, serve as head coaches during that span.
UNLV's Current Situation
- Last season, the Rebels averaged only 4,969 attendees at the Thomas & Mack Center.
- Despite the renovation of the roster, UNLV lost a preseason exhibition to Washington by 77-62.
- In the Mountain West Conference preseason poll, the Rebels were projected to finish 5th out of 11 teams.
- The team's schedule appears manageable, with Alabama being the only ranked opponent.
"Pastner presented a good case for a troubled UNLV program to give him a third shot at coaching success."
"The Rebels were picked to finish fifth of 11 in the Mountain West Conference preseason poll and have a do-able schedule."
Contact Information
Sports columnist Greg Hansen can be reached at [email protected].
Subscriptions provide access to more local stories that connect readers with their community.
Author's Summary: Josh Pastner seeks redemption at UNLV, rebuilding the team with transfers and facing challenges as the Rebels aim to regain competitiveness in the Mountain West Conference.