New surface with all-new design to debut at Saturday’s UNLV men’s basketball season opener
For the first time in almost 20 years, the UNLV men’s basketball team has a brand new court to play on in the Thomas & Mack Center, and the new design incorporates the world-famous Las Vegas Strip skyline.
“We are excited to debut our new court,” said UNLV Director of Athletics Desiree Reed-Francois. “This new look is reflective and inclusive of our dynamic city and we appreciate the teamwork of all involved in this process.”
Installed over the weekend, the new Jerry Tarkanian Court surface features the outline of the Las Vegas Strip’s skyline in a gray stain, along with the classic UNLV arch logo at center court. The gray stain is also included in the keys on both ends of the floor, while the sidelines and baselines are painted a classic red.
“It’s been almost 20 years since we have replaced our court and with the condition it was in, it was time,” Reed-Francois added. “Ensuring the safety of our student-athletes is always a priority.”
“My first reaction when I walked on the concourse and looked down on the court was ‘Wow!’” Runnin’ Rebel head coach Marvin Menzies said. “I was very impressed with the design on paper, but seeing it in person took it to another level. Like in art, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but what matters most to me is the message it sends to recruits, our players’ reactions and of course the majority of our fans. We live in such a unique city and now we have a unique court to match.”
The Runnin’ Rebels were able to see the new surface, which was produced by Robbins Sports Surfaces, for the first time Tuesday morning as a group.
“I love the design, the creativity and the way it captures our city,” said senior guard Jovan Mooring. “Having a brand new surface to play on in the Thomas & Mack Center was much-needed. This new court gives us a real sense of pride.”
The Cox Pavilion, which hosts UNLV women’s basketball and volleyball games, will also get a similarly designed new floor in mid-January.
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UNLV men’s basketball is in its second year under Coach Menzies and brought in a recruiting class that has been ranked as high as No. 12 in the country. Seven new players have been added to the roster for the 2017-18 season, including McDonald’s High School All-American Brandon McCoy and National Junior College Player of the Year Shakur Juiston. The team also returns its leading scorer from last year in Mooring.
The Runnin’ Rebels open the regular season Saturday, Nov. 11 at 7 p.m. vs. Florida A&M at the Thomas & Mack Center.
SEASON TICKETS
Season tickets are on sale now and start as low as $119. They may be purchased at UNLVtickets.com, by calling 702-739-FANS (3267) or by visiting the Thomas & Mack Center Box Office.
MINI PLANS
Two mini-plan options for this season include upper and lower bowl seats:
• Pick-3 Plan:
One premium game (Arizona, San Diego State or Nevada, Reno) plus two non-premium games (non-conference or conference). Prices range from $42-177 depending on seat location.
• Conference Plan:
Six pre-set games (Utah State, New Mexico, San Diego State, Wyoming, Fresno State, Nevada, Reno). Prices range from $72-342 depending on seat location.
Mini plans may also be purchased at UNLVtickets.com, by calling 702-739-FANS (3267) or by visiting the Thomas & Mack Center Box Office.
SINGLE-GAME TICKETS
Single-game tickets may now be purchased at UNLVtickets.com, on the phone at 702-739-FANS (3267) or by visiting the Thomas & Mack Center Box Office.
