Nevada edges Utah in exhibition thriller

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (Nevada Athletics) – The Nevada Men’s Basketball team opened its preseason with an impressive 80–77 exhibition victory over Utah, a Big 12 Conference opponent, on Friday night at the Jon M. Huntsman Center in Salt Lake City. The Wolf Pack showcased balance, toughness, and depth in a back-and-forth contest that featured 12 lead changes and six ties.

Nevada’s offense was fueled by Corey Camper Jr., Elijah Price, and Tayshawn Comer, who combined for nearly half of the team’s scoring. Camper led the way with 18 points on 7-of-14 shooting, attacking the rim efficiently and coming up clutch late from the free-throw line. Price dominated inside, recording 14 points and seven rebounds, including several key put-backs and free throws in the second half. Comer added 14 points and three assists, controlling the tempo and delivering strong drives to the basket.

After leading 34–32 at halftime, Nevada built its largest lead of nine points midway through the second half. Utah fought back behind Terrence Brown’s 27-point effort, but Nevada’s composure at the line down the stretch sealed the win. The Pack shot 20-of-27 from the free-throw line and outscored Utah 46–45 in the second half.

Chuck Bailey III chipped in 11 points, while Joel Armotrading contributed 5 points and five rebounds in an efficient 23 minutes. Nevada’s bench added 27 points overall, highlighting the depth that head coach Steve Alford has emphasized entering the 2025–26 campaign.

Beating Utah, a member of the Big 12, served as an early confidence boost for Nevada. The victory not only showcased the Wolf Pack’s offensive balance but also their ability to close out tight games on the road.

Nevada will continue its exhibition slate before officially tipping off the 2025–26 season at home later this month against Eastern Washington in Lawlor Events Center at 1 P.M. PST, carrying momentum from this strong showing against a Power Conference opponent.

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