UNLV vs San Diego State Picks and Prediction – 1/19/2025

The UNLV Rebels (10-7, 4-2 MWC) visit the San Diego State Aztecs (11-4, 4-2 MWC) in a crucial Mountain West Conference matchup. The Rebels are coming off a narrow 65-62 victory over Utah State, while the Aztecs secured a commanding 75-60 win against Colorado State. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

UNLV's offense has shown flashes of strong play, averaging 71.5 points per game on 45.5% shooting. Guard Dedan Thomas Jr. leads with 15.6 points per game, contributing with a 42.3% field goal percentage and a 70.1% success rate from the line. Forward Jeremiah Cherry adds to the mix with 5.5 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game, providing a much-needed presence in the paint. The Rebels must address inconsistencies on offense, particularly perimeter shooting, as they rank behind San Diego State in rebounding and assists.

Defensively, UNLV allows 70.6 points per game but has managed 6.7 steals per contest, led by Julian Rishwain with 1.5 per game. However, the inability to protect the rim effectively may prove costly against a San Diego State team excelling in offensive rebounds and post play. Limiting turnovers and preventing second-chance opportunities will be critical for the Rebels to stay competitive.

San Diego State enters with a slight edge, averaging 72.3 points per game. Guard Miles Byrd is the top scorer at 14.2 points per game, supported by Jared Coleman-Jones' 5.3 rebounds per contest. The Aztecs excel in ball movement with 12.6 assists per game. Shooting, though slightly lower at 43.6%, is compensated by an impressive rebounding edge, averaging 37.9 boards per game.

Defensively, San Diego State has been formidable, holding opponents to 61.8 points per game. Byrd's 2.1 steals and Magoon Gwath's 2.7 blocks per contest anchor a defense that thrives on forcing turnovers and protecting the rim. 

San Diego State’s defensive superiority and rebounding advantage provide a clear edge. UNLV’s reliance on Thomas Jr. may not suffice against the Aztecs' well-rounded attack. Expect San Diego State to capitalize on home-court advantage and defensive discipline.

Final Score Prediction: San Diego State Aztecs wins and covers 80-65.