San Diego State’s still the name everyone’s chasing.
The Aztecs were again the unanimous pick to win the Mountain West, earning all 26 first-place votes and 312 total points in the league’s preseason media poll. It’s familiar territory for Brian Dutcher’s program. They are physical, disciplined, and built on depth that travels. They’ve been the measuring stick for years, and nothing in this vote suggests that’s changing anytime soon.
Behind them, Utah State, Boise State, and newcomer Grand Canyon all look capable of making it a race. Utah State brings back one of the most efficient offenses in the league. Boise State has continuity and shot-making that always translates. And Grand Canyon, fresh off its WAC dominance, enters the Mountain West with real momentum and size, already earning the league’s respect with a top-four projection.
Then there’s UNLV, checking in at No. 6, right in the middle of what might be the deepest Mountain West we’ve seen in years. From top to bottom, this conference is stacked with veteran guards, transfer talent, and elite home courts that make every night a grind.
The margin between third and eighth could be razor-thin, and that’s exactly where UNLV lives heading into Year One under Josh Pastner with a dangerous, unpredictable, and more athletic squad than most expect.
The Poll
Preseason All-Mountain West Team
UNLV’s Spot
Sixth isn’t disrespect; it’s curiosity.
A brand-new staff, 12 newcomers, and one returner (Jacob Bannarbie) make this version of UNLV almost impossible to project. But Josh Pastner’s first team already looks like a group with purpose and edge again.
The pieces fit. UNLV’s length, pace, and defensive intent align with what wins in the Mountain West. Guards Dravyn Gibbs-Lawhorn and Myles Che bring pressure and tempo. Kimani Hamilton gives the Rebels a proven two-way wing who can guard multiple spots. Emmanuel Stephen anchors the back line as a true rim protector.
The swing factor is health. With so many new faces learning a demanding system, staying available might be the difference between a team that flashes and one that finishes. If this roster stays intact and builds chemistry by league play, that No. 6 slot could look conservative by February.
The Takeaway
San Diego State remains the standard.
Utah State and Boise State have continuity.
But UNLV, with energy, athletes, and a defensive mindset, might be the league’s biggest unknown.
The Rebels don’t need hype. They need time and health.
Next: UNLV opens exhibition play October 28 vs Lincoln University at Thomas & Mack.
