Arizona had played some close games during its undefeated start this season, but the Wildcats’ superior talent always found a way to win out. Whether it was against Kansas State, San Diego State or, more recently, UTEP, Arizona’s combination of size and athletism had proven to be the ultimate trump card through the first 12 games of the year. On Tuesday night in Las Vegas, it all came crumbling down.
UNLV vs. Arizona final score: The Wildcats undefeated season ends in Las Vegas
Christian Wood and Rashad Vaughn each scored over 20 points to carry the Rebels.
Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
Ricky O'Donnell has covered basketball at all levels for more than a decade at SB Nation. He’s currently the Associate Director of Programming.
The Wildcats had their chances at the end, but UNLV held on for a 71-67 win. It’s the first loss for Sean Miller’s program since Wisconsin ended Arizona’s season in the Elite 8 a year ago.
The scene at Thomas & Mack after UNLV's upset of Arizona pic.twitter.com/0TNZ1yjthk
— Sarah Kezele (@SarahKezele) December 24, 2014 Sophomore Christian Wood finished with 24 points and 10 rebounds to power UNLV. Five-star freshman wing Rashad Vaughn was great too, adding 21 points and five rebounds in the win.
Arizona had plenty of chances to grab control of the game in the final minute, but couldn’t get it done. Stanley Johnson missed a layup with UNLV leading by one, and the next possession forward Brandon Ashley missed a wide open three. Should it have been goaltending?
All five starters for Arizona finished in double-figures, led by 14 from senior point guard T.J. McConnell. The Wildcats only got six points from their bench, while guard Patrick McCaw came off the pine to add 13 points for the Rebels.
The win moves UNLV to 8-3 on the season.
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