A Proven Rebounder Steps Up (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Las Vegas — The UNLV men’s basketball program took a significant step forward in its offseason rebuild when 6-foot-8 forward MJ Thomas committed to the Rebels from the transfer portal. Thomas, who spent two seasons at New Orleans, brings proven scoring and rebounding production to a frontcourt already featuring promising sophomore Tyrin Jones. This move under head coach Josh Pastner signals an emphasis on interior toughness as the team recovers from a roster shakeup.[1][2]
A Proven Rebounder Steps Up
MJ Thomas established himself as one of the top rebounders in his conference during his freshman year at New Orleans. He averaged 11.2 points and 7.8 rebounds per game across 31 appearances, with 27 starts, leading the Southland Conference and ranking 76th nationally in rebounds per game. His 3.06 offensive rebounds per contest topped the Southland and placed 41st in the NCAA, while his total of 243 boards ranked first in the league and 55th overall.
In his sophomore campaign, Thomas maintained strong numbers at 10.8 points and 8.0 rebounds in nearly 27 minutes per game. He flashed against power foes, scoring 17 points on perfect 8-for-8 free-throw shooting versus ranked Houston and adding 13 points on 7-for-7 from the line against Mississippi State.[1] These performances highlight his ability to deliver in high-stakes matchups.
High School Pedigree Meets College Production
From Denton, Texas, Thomas built a reputation as a dominant high school talent. At Denton High School, he posted 17.0 points and 13.4 rebounds per game as a senior. Earlier, at Calvert High School, he guided his squad to a state championship game, earning All-State honors, MVP accolades, and a spot in ESPN Texas’ Top-25 rankings.
Career highlights include a 32-point outburst at UIW, matching a New Orleans freshman record set in 1979, and an 18-rebound effort against East Texas A&M that set a school mark for freshmen in conference play. He notched six double-doubles as a rookie, just one shy of the Southland lead. Thomas also excelled at the free-throw line, finishing third in the conference in attempts and fourth in makes.
Pairing with Tyrin Jones Strengthens Rebel Interior
UNLV already counts on Tyrin Jones, a 6-foot-9 Las Vegas native who enjoyed a breakout freshman season. The top-150 recruit per 247Sports averaged 11.9 points, five rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game. Jones signed with the Rebels in November 2024 and opted to return for his sophomore year, providing continuity amid changes.
Together, Thomas and Jones offer length, athleticism, and versatility. Pastner’s vision demands players who score and crash the boards relentlessly, and this duo fits that mold perfectly. They join returners like freshman Issac Williamson and recent transfer guard Cam Miles from Florida State as foundational pieces.[1][4]
Navigating a Roster Rebuild
The Rebels face a major transition after their 2025-26 season ended with a second-round NIT loss to Tulsa. Seven players, including leading scorer Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn, departed via the portal. Pastner, in his efforts to reshape the team, quickly added Miles earlier in the week before securing Thomas.[1]
This frontcourt infusion addresses key needs in the Mountain West Conference, where physicality often decides games. Thomas’s jump from the Southland to the MWC represents a challenge, but his track record suggests readiness.
Key Takeaways
- MJ Thomas: 10.8 ppg, 8.0 rpg in 2025-26; elite rebounder with big-game experience.
- Tyrin Jones returns after 11.9 ppg, 2.2 bpg freshman year.
- UNLV rebuilds under Pastner post-NIT exit and portal losses.
UNLV’s strategic portal moves position the Rebels for contention next season, blending youth with transfer grit. The frontcourt tandem of Thomas and Jones could prove pivotal. What do you think of this addition for the Rebels? Share in the comments.
