Rene Rougeau News

UNLV guard Steve Jones celebrates as the Rebels go on a 35-12 run against UNR during the second half of their game Wednesday, November 18, 2009 at the Thomas & Mack Center.

UNLV guard Oscar Bellfield, rear, shoots over Louisville forward Samardo Samuels for the decisive points in the Rebels' win Dec.

UNLV guard Justin Hawkins celebrates a turnover against UNR during the second half of their game Wednesday, November 18, 2009 at the Thomas & Mack Center.

You can excuse UNLV basketball coach Lon Kruger if he feels a little like famed chef Emeril Lagasse during the early portion of this season.

Several unknowns surround coach Lon Kruger as he begins his sixth season on the UNLV bench.

After many long and grueling months, the UNLV Running Rebels finally take the court this week.

UNLV guard Chace Stanback dishes off a pass against Washburn during a preseason game Tuesday.

Junior guard Tre'Von Willis takes a break during UNLV's public practice last week.

Expectation vs. reality. It's a common encounter for UNLV basketball this time of year, for all college teams the second week of October.

Former Syracuse guard Jonny Flynn celebrates during action last season. The Orange were one of the first teams to wear Nike's newest style of hoops uniforms, which features tighter tops and baggier shorts.

Last year, Lon Kruger guided the UNLV Runnin' Rebels to 21 wins and a berth in a postseason tournament.

Former UNLV swingman Rene Rougeau can plan on making a living in basketball. While watching some of the NBA Summer League action Thursday at Cox Pavilion, Rougeau said there is much European interest in his services for the 2009-10 season.

THE GOOD NEWS: Newcomers include 6-3 shooting guard of Mojave High and 6-9 forward Carlos Lopez of powerhouse Findlay Prep in Las Vegas.

Utah center Luke Nevill leaps over Wyoming forward Tyson Johnson to reach a rebound during their semifinal game at the Mountain West Conference Basketball Championships Friday.