UNLV advanced to the first round of the NIT with a 75-72 win over UC Irvine. The Rebels' lead was nearly evaporated, but they managed to maintain their momentum. Former UNLV player, Dra Gibbs-Lawson, who scored 12 points and deflected a key shot from UC Irvine, was the key player in the win. The team's uneven play this season was seen as a major factor in their win.