Preview: Colorado State at UNLV LAS VEGAS (Interstat) — Two Mountain West teams trending in opposite directions will meet Wednesday night when the Colorado State Rams visit the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels at the Thomas & Mack Center. Colorado State (15-10) enters on a three-game winning streak, including a 79-68 victory over Wyoming on Saturday. The Rams have stabilized after a mid-season slump, relying on balanced contributions. Guard Jase Butler, a key player to watch, is coming off an efficient 18-point, 6-assist performance against the Cowboys. UNLV (13-12) has found its offensive spark, winning three straight, but needed overtime to outlast Boise State 86-83 last Friday. The Rebels’ surge is powered by the explosive scoring of guard Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn. He is averaging 29.3 points over his last three games, including a 36-point effort in 44 minutes against the Broncos. The Rams won the season’s first meeting, 70-62, in Fort Collins on Jan. 9. In that game, Colorado State contained Gibbs-Lawhorn to 14 points, a defensive challenge they must replicate on the road. For Colorado State, maintaining its recent defensive intensity will be critical against a high-octane UNLV attack. The Rams have held their last three opponents under 70 points. Alongside Butler, forwards Rashaan Mbemba and Jevin Muniz have provided consistent interior production. UNLV’s fortunes hinge on Gibbs-Lawhorn’s hot hand, but support from Tyrin Jones and Kimani Hamilton will be needed against a physical Rams frontcourt. The Rebels have shown vulnerability at home, including a 28-point loss to New Mexico last month. This matchup carries weight for conference tournament seeding. Colorado State seeks a road win to solidify its standing, while UNLV aims to continue its climb back to .500 and avenge its earlier loss. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. PST Wednesday.