Preview: Utah State Visits UNLV in Critical Mountain West Clash LAS VEGAS (Interstat) — A surging Utah State squad aiming to solidify its NCAA tournament resume will face a volatile UNLV team powered by one of the nation’s hottest scorers when the Aggies visit the Runnin’ Rebels on Tuesday afternoon at the Thomas & Mack Center. The 12th-ranked Aggies (24-5, 13-3 Mountain West) enter with a strong case for a high seed in March, having won 10 of their last 12 games. Their most recent outing was a 74-69 home victory over Grand Canyon on Saturday, led by 15 points from guard Drake Allen. Utah State’s efficiency on both ends has been a hallmark, though a road loss at San Diego State last week showed vulnerability away from Logan. UNLV (15-14, 8-8) presents a dangerous, if inconsistent, challenge, especially on its home floor. The Rebels are coming off an emotional 85-83 overtime win against Nevada, fueled by a spectacular 42-point explosion from sophomore guard Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn. Over his last eight games, Gibbs-Lawhorn is averaging a staggering 30.4 points, transforming into one of the conference’s most unstoppable offensive forces. The teams’ previous meeting this season adds intrigue. On Jan. 20 in Logan, UNLV handed Utah State one of its rare home losses, 86-76. Gibbs-Lawhorn scored 28 points in that upset, while the Aggies struggled from the perimeter. Utah State will rely on a more balanced attack, with Allen (10.1 ppg, 3.9 apg) facilitating alongside leading scorer Great Osobor. Containing Gibbs-Lawhorn will be the primary defensive focus for an Aggie team that ranks among the Mountain West leaders in scoring defense. For UNLV, the formula is clear: ride the hot hand. Beyond Gibbs-Lawhorn, consistency has been elusive. The Rebels must find supplementary scoring and defensive stops to counter Utah State’s disciplined system. A win for Utah State would strengthen its hold on second place in the conference and bolster its seeding profile. For UNLV, it represents a chance to play spoiler and build momentum heading into the final week of the regular season and the conference tournament. Tip-off is scheduled for 8 p.m. PST. The game will be broadcast on CBS Sports Network.