Consistent Production Across Two Seasons (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Las Vegas – The UNLV men’s basketball program gained a significant frontcourt addition when 6-foot-8 forward MJ Thomas committed to transfer from the University of New Orleans. Thomas, a sophomore from Denton, Texas, brings proven scoring and rebounding production to the Rebels as they rebuild following a busy transfer portal window. His arrival marks the second key commitment this week for coach Josh Pastner, signaling an aggressive push to reshape the roster for the upcoming season.[1][2]
Consistent Production Across Two Seasons
Thomas established himself as a reliable presence during his time with the Privateers. In the 2025-26 season, he appeared in 32 games, averaging 10.8 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 1.5 assists over 26.7 minutes per contest. His field goal percentage reached an efficient 53.1 percent, complemented by a 73.3 percent mark from the free-throw line.[3]
As a freshman the prior year, Thomas posted similar numbers: 11.2 points and 7.8 rebounds per game across 31 appearances with 27 starts. He led the Southland Conference in rebounds per game and ranked 76th nationally, while topping the league in offensive rebounds. Those efforts earned him recognition as one of the top freshmen rebounders in the country.
Clutch Performances Against Elite Foes
Thomas thrived in high-stakes matchups, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure. He scored 17 points against a nationally ranked Houston team, converting all eight free-throw attempts. In another contest versus Mississippi State, he added 13 points while going 7-for-7 from the line.[1][2]
His game highs further highlight his potential. Thomas once poured in 32 points against Incarnate Word, matching a New Orleans freshman record. He also grabbed a school-record 18 rebounds for a freshman in a conference game against East Texas A&M. These outbursts, including six double-doubles as a rookie, underscored his versatility on both ends of the floor.
From Texas Roots to College Stardom
Thomas built an impressive foundation in Texas high school basketball. At Denton High School, he averaged 17.0 points and 13.4 rebounds as a senior. Earlier, at Calvert High School, he guided his team to a state championship game appearance, earning All-State honors, MVP accolades, and a ranking in ESPN’s Texas Top 25.
Over his high school career across both schools, Thomas amassed 2,323 points and more than 1,500 rebounds. A McDonald’s All-American nominee, he played club ball for Drive Nation and Asak before a postgraduate stint at Link Year Prep. Coached by his father Michael throughout high school, Thomas enters UNLV with two years of eligibility remaining.[2]
Addressing UNLV’s Roster Needs
UNLV enters a rebuilding phase after losing seven players to the transfer portal, including leading scorer Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn. The Rebels’ 2025-26 season concluded with a second-round NIT defeat to Tulsa. Thomas joins rising sophomore guard Cam Miles, who transferred from Florida State earlier this week, as the program assembles its core around returning freshmen like 6-foot-9 forward Tyrin Jones and Issac Williamson.[1][2]
The addition of Thomas provides much-needed length and rebounding punch in the frontcourt. Paired with Jones, he offers Pastner versatile options for the Mountain West Conference grind – a step up in competition from Thomas’s Southland Conference battles.
- 10.8 points per game (2025-26)
- 8.0 rebounds per game (2025-26)
- 53.1% field goal percentage
- 6 double-doubles as freshman
- Two years of eligibility left
Key Takeaways
- Thomas steps up from Southland to Mountain West, bringing double-double threat.
- UNLV gains frontcourt depth amid portal exodus.
- Proven against Power conference foes like Houston.
With Thomas on board, UNLV positions itself for a competitive resurgence. His blend of size, skill, and experience could prove pivotal in the Rebels’ return to prominence. What impact do you see MJ Thomas having next season? Share your thoughts in the comments.
