Pastner’s UNLV Philosophy: Playing Hard Isn't Negotiable
Josh Pastner's coaching philosophy is clearly displayed in the UNLV locker room: “[translate: Winning this possession is more important than breathing].”
During an exhibition game against Lincoln University at the Thomas & Mack Center, Pastner emphasized intensity over individual achievements. When guard Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn scored 31 points in the game, instead of celebrating the scoring, Pastner focused on a defensive mistake early in the first half.
“The kid hit a three,” Pastner said after UNLV’s 123-59 victory. “(Gibbs-Lawhorn) had no sense of urgency on guarding that shot. He went underneath the screen. He didn’t have a hair-on-fire mentality, sense of urgency, desperation, life-or-death mentality. And you just (have) to come out (of the game). You just got to sit your butt on the bench.”
This moment highlights the culture Pastner is instilling: a program where toughness and urgency are non-negotiable. UNLV is set to open its season at 7 p.m.
Author's summary: Pastner focuses on relentless effort and defensive intensity to build a disciplined and tough UNLV basketball program.
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