In a recent statement, University of Nevada, Las Vegas head coach Josh Pastner made it clear that the Runnin' Rebels are not on the market and that the program belongs to the university, its students, alumni, fans, and the broader Southern Nevada community.
Ownership Belongs to the University and the Community
Pastner emphasized that any notion of a private sale is a misinterpretation; the team's stewardship remains firmly in the hands of the institution and its supporters.
His earlier comments about looking for an 'owner' were not a signal that he wanted to hand over control, but rather a call for additional resources to keep the Rebels competitive in an era dominated by Name, Image and Likeness opportunities.
Pastner sees the evolving NIL landscape as a chance for major investors to provide the financial backing needed to elevate the program, while still respecting the university's ownership of the brand.
He pointed out that acquiring an NBA franchise carries a price tag that dwarfs any potential purchase of the Rebels, making the latter a more attainable goal for local stakeholders.
This is Pastner's second season at the helm; his first year produced an 18‑17 record, a tie for seventh place in the Mountain West Conference, and an 11‑9 conference slate.
Looking ahead, the coach said Las Vegas could one day host an NBA team, and he hopes the city's growing sports culture will eventually bring that vision to fruition.