The Runnin' Rebels were uber-impressive in their NIT opener, burying Princeton with two regulars out. UNLV is confident that one -- rebounder/shot-blocker Kalib Boone -- will return here. That would motivate Keylan Boone, his twin brother as they close out their college careers. UNLV's points differential as a Mountain West member is an impressive plus-5.5, much better than +2.5 for B.C. from a comparable league. The travel-weary Eagles have not played at home since March 2.

It's too bad this isn't last year for UNLV, when the NIT played its Final Four in Vegas. The eventual destination this season will be Butler's Hinkle Fieldhouse, but the Runnin' Rebels hinted they might get there when winning at Princeton last Wednesday, even as star frosh PG Dedan Thomas, Jr was held to just five points. Note UNLV"s 18-5 spread mark since mid-December, and have to wonder about this very odd road trip for BC, which usually doesn't get further west than Louisville. Play UNLV (NIT)