LAS VEGAS (AP) Deville Smith made a layup with 1:16 remaining to give UNLV just enough cushion to get past Wyoming 48-46 Saturday night.
Riley Grabau made a 3-pointer with 1:05 remaining to close the gap to 48-46 and give Wyoming a chance for the victory. UNLV was running the clock down when Derek Cooke Jr stole the ball from Smith. Following a time out, Wyoming set a play but Larry Nance Jr, who finished with 12 points, missed a jump shot. Josh Adams got the rebound but the Cowboys could not get off another shot and UNLV escaped with the win.
Khem Birch had 10 points to lead UNLV (16-8, 7-4 Mountain West). Smith had nine points and four assists.
The Rebels led 22-20 at the half and were up 41-34 following a 3-pointer by Kevin Olekaibe with 6:43 remaining. Wyoming (14-9, 5-5) closed to 44-42 following a 3-pointer by Grabau.
