Josh Pastner’s appointment as the new men’s basketball coach at UNLV has been met with enthusiasm and optimism. His connection to the Rebels’ historic success in the 1980s and 1990s fuels his belief that this is a “dream job” and a prime opportunity to lead the team back to prominence. With a five-year, $4.8 million contract, Pastner steps into the role with a clear vision for returning UNLV to the NCAA Tournament, a feat they haven’t achieved since 2013.
Pastner’s passion for the job was a deciding factor in his hiring, as noted by Athletic Director Erick Harper, who emphasized Pastner’s understanding of the potential to win championships at UNLV. This understanding is grounded in Pastner’s previous coaching experience, where he accumulated a record of 276-187 over 14 seasons at Memphis and Georgia Tech, reaching the NCAA Tournament five times.
His immediate focus will be on building the team through the transfer portal and enhancing the program’s name, image, and likeness (NIL) collective. Pastner’s engaging personality is seen as a valuable asset for attracting support and donations, which are crucial in the evolving landscape of college athletics.
Pastner’s strategy involves reconnecting with current players and recruiting new talent, alongside hiring a competent coaching staff. He aims to energize the community and alumni, recognizing that reigniting the program’s success hinges on winning games. By emphasizing engagement and efficiency in recruitment, Pastner is optimistic about overcoming the challenges posed by NIL and the transfer portal.
Ultimately, Pastner’s goal is to “ignite the city” of Las Vegas by reviving the program’s storied legacy and achieving success on the national stage. His commitment to this vision is evident in his proactive approach and determination to make an immediate impact.
