UNLV to open conference basketball season at home

Pending the status of senior guard Tre'Von Willis, UNLV could emerge as the favorite in the Mountain West Conference this season. The top half of the league appears stacked with strong teams, just as it was last season.

"I think it will be better," Rebels coach Lon Kruger said. "It will be really tough, but that's what you need for your league to improve."

The MWC released the basketball schedule and game times Wednesday, and UNLV opens against Brigham Young on Jan. 5 at the Thomas & Mack Center. The Rebels host Texas Christian on Jan. 8 before a road game at San Diego State on Jan. 12.

UNLV's nonconference schedule, which was announced in May, includes games against Wisconsin, Louisville and Kansas State. Kruger said the order in which the Rebels face their MWC opponents is inconsequential.

"I never worry about that part of it," he said. "Last year we started with a couple on the road, and this year we start with a couple at home. You play them all."

UNLV, BYU, San Diego State and defending regular-season champion New Mexico are expected to be the league's top teams. The Rebels host the Lobos on Jan. 22.

Willis, the MWC's second-leading scorer as a junior, faces charges stemming from allegations that he choked a female during an argument June 29. Kruger is waiting for the legal process to run its course before determining Willis' status.

Contact reporter Matt Youmans at myoumans@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2907.