Air Force Falcons vs UNLV Runnin’ Rebels Pick – 3/12/2025

The Air Force Falcons are set to face the UNLV Runnin' Rebels in the first round of the Mountain West Conference Tournament on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at 7:00 PM EDT at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. This game marks the third meeting between the two teams this season, with UNLV securing victories in both previous encounters.

Air Force Falcons vs. UNLV Runnin' Rebels Game Preview

UNLV enters the tournament as the sixth seed, boasting a 17-14 overall record and an 11-9 mark in conference play. The Rebels have demonstrated a balanced offensive attack, averaging 69.6 points per game while allowing 68.4 points to opponents. Key contributors include guard Dedan Thomas Jr., who averages 15.6 points and 4.7 assists per game, and Jaden Henley, contributing 12.8 points per game over the last ten contests.

Air Force, the eleventh seed, has struggled throughout the season, compiling a 4-27 overall record with a 1-19 conference record. The Falcons have faced challenges on both ends of the court, averaging 62.0 points per game while conceding 73.8 points to opponents. Senior guard Ethan Taylor leads the team with averages of 13.6 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. Freshman forward Will Cooper has also shown promise, averaging 1.6 made three-pointers over the last ten games.

In their most recent matchup on February 12, 2025, UNLV dominated Air Force with a 77-52 victory. In that game, UNLV's Jeremiah Cherry led all scorers with 15 points, while Air Force's Luke Kearney contributed 17 points and six rebounds.

Betting Insights

As of March 11, 2025, the betting lines for this matchup are as follows:

• Point Spread: UNLV favored by 11.5 points
• Over/Under: 130.5 points

UNLV has been more consistent against the spread, with a 3-2 record in their last five games, while Air Force has struggled, going 1-9 in their last ten games. The Rebels have also performed better in games decided by at least ten points, holding a 6-7 record in road games against the spread.

Air Force Falcons vs. UNLV Runnin' Rebels Prediction

Considering the season performances and recent trends, UNLV appears to have a significant advantage in this matchup. The Rebels' balanced offense and relatively solid defense position them well against an Air Force team that has struggled to find consistency. Additionally, UNLV's previous decisive victories over Air Force this season suggest a favorable outcome for the Rebels.

Given these factors, the prediction is that UNLV will win and cover the 11.5-point spread. The total points are likely to stay under 130.5, considering both teams' recent scoring trends and defensive performances.

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