UNLV Keeps Getting Left Behind
Let’s be clear:
The gap isn’t just in coaching.
The gap is in structure. Communication. Vision.
While schools like Utah State are activating NIL donors in real-time and publicly rallying their base, UNLV is operating behind a closed curtain.
We have a collective.
But most fans couldn’t name it.
Most boosters haven’t been asked to contribute.
And most players don’t know what’s available until it’s too late.
In this climate? That’s inexcusable.
The GM Isn’t Just a Trend — It’s the Future
UNLV needs someone full-time dedicated to:
• Bridging the gap between NIL, donors, and staff
• Communicating real-time needs to the fanbase
• Orchestrating transfer portal strategy and roster timelines
• Retaining top players, not just recruiting replacements
• Modernizing the entire program off the floor
It’s already happening at schools big and small:
• Duke and UNC have built out GM-style roles.
• Virginia, Utah, NC State, St. Bonaventure — all implementing this model.
• These aren’t experiments anymore. They’re essentials.
UNLV Can’t Keep Playing Checkers in a Chess Game
What makes this so frustrating is that UNLV should be ahead of the curve.
• A basketball brand with a national legacy.
• A city destination that players love.
• A growing NIL pool that just needs structure.
• A new coach trying to stabilize things long-term.
And yet, no GM. No NIL strategy. No fan-facing plan.
Just another offseason filled with question marks.
While other schools are organizing, we’re reacting.
That’s how you lose recruits, lose players, and eventually — lose patience from your base.
Final Word: Build It the Right Way
If UNLV wants to compete in the Mountain West — a league getting 4+ NCAA bids a year — then it can’t afford to lag behind in operations anymore.
This is the time to build a real department, not just hang a new nameplate on the coach’s door.
Hiring a General Manager should be step one.
Because NIL isn’t slowing down.
The transfer portal isn’t shrinking.
And fans are done watching the same cycle repeat every 2-3 years.
UNLV has the tools.
It just needs to stop pretending it’s 1990 — and start building like it’s 2025.