By Alan Snel of LVSportsBiz.com
It’s hard to believe the UNLV basketball team was once the Vegas Golden Knights of the Las Vegas sports market 30 years ago, garnering the community’s adoring attention and packing Thomas & Mack Center.
But times have changed in three decades and the NHL team is king of the local sports scene and the Runnin’ Rebels fill up about half the seats at Thomas & Mack on a good night.
The hoops team has a new, young energetic coach, T.J. Ortelberger from South Dakota State, who promises a fast-paced style with three-point shooting. Much of the team has turned over, with the roster retaining last year’s players such as Nick Blair, Amauri Hardy and Mbacke Diong.
On Friday, the squad easily dispatched a school called West Coast Baptist College, 112-54, and a UNLV journalist who attended the game told LVSportsBiz.com that no more than 5,000 people were in Thomas & Mack for the exhibition game. And a devoted Runnin’ Rebs fan said Otzenberger did not draw a big crowd for his first weekly radio show last week.
It’s unclear how much these “enhancements” will attract people to Thomas & Mack Center. Last season, UNLV was 17-14, including 11-7 in Mountain West play. But UNLV lost to San Diego State in the MWC tourney quarterfinals and Marvin Menzies was fired March 15. After Menzies finished 48-48, Otzenberger was hired March 27. He arrived via helicopter to Thomas & Mack Center.
For the record, here are the “enhancements,” according to the UNLV press release.
1. New Student Section and Band Location
Members of the Rebellion and the band will now be located between sections 101 and 122 this year. This placement will make sure that the university will have a loud presence behind the opposing team’s basket in the second half of games.
2. Ticket Scan Rewards Program for Season Ticket Holders
Season ticket holders are able to receive prizes by getting their tickets scanned this year. The prizes increase based on the number of games attended, with rewards starting at 60 percent of attendance.
3. Top of the Line Courtside Club Experience
The Courtside Club is the place to be seen with complimentary food and beverages for Loyalty Circle members and Gucci Row season ticket holders. For more information, please contact the Rebel Athletic Fund at 702-895-1533.
4. Guaranteed Giveaways for Season Ticket Holders
For the new season, season ticket holders can guarantee five premium giveaway items for one low price. The giveaway items include a challenge coin, two bobbleheads, a jersey, and the Senior Night White Out T-shirt. The package is valued at over $125, but can be purchased for just $40. Season ticket holders have until Thursday to purchase.
5. Concessions Upgrade for Season Ticket Holders
Runnin’ Rebel season ticket holders can lock in a meal from the concessions stand before six of the best home games for one low price. Menu options vary from game to game, and include pizza, cheeseburgers, and chicken fingers. Season ticket holders can purchase the concessions upgrade from now through Thursday.
6. Hump Day Work Perk for Wednesday Home Games
During each Wednesday home game, fans will be able to bring a business card to the marketing table and exchange it for a different perk. Perks will vary throughout the year, and will include giveaway items and vouchers for the concessions stand.
7. New opportunities to give back to the community through group sales fundraising and donation games
During the month of November, fans will have the opportunity to bring items to donate to local charities. Additionally, groups will have new opportunities to raise money for their organization through our fundraising program. Check the promotions page for more information.
8. Five Enhanced Runnin’ Rebel Fests
Runnin’ Rebel Fest is back for a second year, with five dates. Located near the Coach Tarkanian statue, Runnin’ Rebel Fest is the premier pregame destination before Runnin’ Rebel games, and will include new tailgate games, a variety of activities, and new entertainment options. Check out the online guide for more information.
9. Get to know the Runnin’ Rebels through the Run it Back Series and dedicated YouTube Channel
Get to see what it is like to be a Runnin’ Rebel with the Run it Back Series. Episodes will be released throughout the season on the new Runnin’ Rebels YouTube channel.
10. Tacos on Tuesdays
During each Tuesday home game, fans can purchase $2 tacos from the concession stands.
11. Six shots at $10k courtesy of William Hill
At six games this season, one lucky fan will have the chance to hit a half court shot for $10,000 courtesy of William Hill.
12. New Group ticket Opportunities
Groups can now take advantage of new lower bowl seating locations and all-you-can-eat concessions options. Group tickets start at 20 or more.
13. Upgraded In-Game features and Dance Cams
Inside the Thomas & Mack Center, fans will be treated to new in-game features like “The whisper challenge”, golf cart karaoke, and “Would you Rather?” as well as new dance cams to get you on your feet and moving.
14. National Halftime Entertainment
Fans will be able to see additional nationally-recognized halftime entertainment at Thomas & Mack Center this season, along with traditional favorites. Acts will be released on the promotions page when they are announced.
15. Tee for Three courtesy of Sport Clips
Each time the Rebels hit their first three-point shot of the game, fans will have the chance to catch T-shirts from Sport Clips.
16. Expansion of the Seats for Service Program
Through the Seats for Service Program, fans can make $10 contributions to send a member of the armed forces, veterans, and their families to a Runnin’ Rebel Game this season.
17. Tickets for Teachers Program Relaunched
Earlier this year, the Runnin’ Rebels relaunched the Tickets for Teachers initiative. Fans are able to make a tax-deductible donation to send a pair of season tickets to local elementary and middle schools.
19. OurID Giveaway
Thanks to OurID.com, you can win with the Rebels. Stay posted to the promotions page to find out how one lucky Rebel fan could win a pair of season tickets to UNLV football in 2020, a pair of Runnin’ Rebel season tickets for the 2020-21 season, and a year of identity theft protection.
19. New Online Promotions Page
Stay up to date with the latest promotions with the new online promotional schedule at www.unlvrebels.com/promotions. Schedules include game themes, giveaway items, Runnin’ Rebel Fest information, and more.
20. New Online Gameday Guide
Check out the online Gameday Guide for information on how to make sure your trip to the Thomas & Mack Center is an enjoyable one. From information about parking, ADA services, concessions, and more; the Gameday Guide has you covered.
UNLV will open the regular season Tuesday Nov. 5 at 7 p.m. vs. Purdue Fort Wayne.
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