The nickname of UNLV Larry Johnson's team was the Runnin' Rebels. This moniker became synonymous with one of college basketball's most exciting and dominant teams in the early 1990s.
The Dominant Runnin' Rebels Era
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) basketball program, particularly during the late 1980s and early 1990s under coach Jerry Tarkanian, gained national prominence for its fast-paced, high-scoring, and aggressive style of play. This era was famously embodied by the team nicknamed the "Runnin' Rebels."
Larry Johnson was a pivotal figure in this era, playing for UNLV from 1989 to 1991. He was an integral part of the team that won the NCAA National Championship in 1990 and then went undefeated into the Final Four of the 1991 NCAA Tournament.
Larry Johnson's Impact
Larry Johnson, a powerful forward, quickly became a superstar for the Runnin' Rebels. His athleticism, scoring ability, and charismatic presence made him a fan favorite and a key component of the team's success. He led the team in scoring and rebounding during his tenure, earning numerous accolades:
- 1991 Naismith College Player of the Year: Awarded to the top men's college basketball player.
- 1991 John R. Wooden Award: Recognized as the best player in men's college basketball.
- Two-time Consensus First-Team All-American: In 1990 and 1991.
Key Season Highlights (1990-91)
The 1990-91 UNLV Runnin' Rebels team, featuring Larry Johnson, Stacey Augmon, Greg Anthony, and others, is widely considered one of the greatest college basketball teams of all time. They entered the 1991 NCAA Tournament as the defending champions and were undefeated with a perfect 34-0 record, seeking to become the first team since the 1976 Indiana Hoosiers to complete an undefeated season.
Their remarkable season was characterized by:
- Dominant Offense: They often scored over 100 points per game, overwhelming opponents with their speed and talent.
- Stifling Defense: Despite their offensive prowess, they were also formidable defensively, forcing turnovers and controlling the boards.
- Unbeaten Regular Season: Their flawless record showcased their consistent excellence.
However, their bid for a second consecutive national championship and an undefeated season was famously ended in an upset loss to Duke in the 1991 Final Four, a game that remains one of the biggest upsets in NCAA Tournament history.
Despite the Final Four loss, the 1990-91 Runnin' Rebels team, led by Larry Johnson, cemented its place in college basketball lore, and their nickname, "Runnin' Rebels," perfectly captured their exciting style of play.
| Season | Record (Overall) | Notable Players | Head Coach | Significant Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1989-90 | 35-5 | Larry Johnson, Stacey Augmon, Greg Anthony | Jerry Tarkanian | NCAA National Champions |
| 1990-91 | 34-1 | Larry Johnson, Stacey Augmon, Greg Anthony | Jerry Tarkanian | Undefeated Regular Season, Final Four Appearance |
