The Boise State men’s basketball team suffered a disappointing 89-85 overtime loss to the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels on January 9, 2024. This defeat marks the Broncos’ fifth loss in six games within the Mountain West Conference, leaving them with a record of 1-5 in the league and 9-8 overall. The team will look to regroup during their upcoming home game against Colorado State.
Head coach Leon Rice expressed his frustration following the game, emphasizing the missed opportunities that led to the team’s downfall. “I’ve got to help them more, because we were right in position to win that game,” he stated. Rice acknowledged that the Broncos committed 15 turnovers, which directly resulted in 29 points for UNLV.
The game was tightly contested, but critical mistakes plagued Boise State throughout. Rice pointed out specific moments that shifted the momentum. “We get a rebound, we throw it right to them, and they get a dunk. We don’t block out on a free throw, and they get a tip dunk,” he explained. These lapses in concentration were costly, especially during pivotal moments when the Broncos were competitive.
As the team prepares for Colorado State, Rice stresses the importance of controlling the game. “You’ve got to capitalize on the things you can control, and you don’t have to throw it to the other team,” he said. He emphasized that the players must learn from these mistakes to improve as a cohesive unit. “When we get that, this team can be good,” he added, underscoring the need for consistent teamwork.
Despite the loss, Rice acknowledged the potential within his squad. He praised the efforts of players like Spencer Ahrens, who he noted played a crucial role in executing offensive strategies. “Our guys did a great job. Spencer did a great job of finding him, that’s why we put it in his hands,” Rice remarked, reflecting on the team’s ability to create opportunities.
Three-point shooting was another area of concern for the Broncos, as they managed to convert only three of their fourteen attempts. “I always say, ‘The operation is a success and the patient dies because we missed our open shots,’” Rice explained. He highlighted the necessity for shooters to perform under pressure, urging them to improve their accuracy in crucial situations.
As Boise State heads into the next matchup, the focus will be on learning from the recent setbacks and capitalizing on future opportunities. The coaching staff remains committed to refining strategies and enhancing player performance to turn around the current trajectory of the season. The upcoming game against Colorado State presents a critical chance for the Broncos to regain momentum and build confidence.
