5 takeaways from the UNLV-Air Force game

Five takeaways from UNLV's 100-64 victory over Air Force's basketball team on Saturday at the Thomas & Mack Center:

1. In case there was any doubt, the Rebels are loose and energetic. They were expected to be in the first game following coach Dave Rice's firing, an 86-74 victory over New Mexico on Tuesday. The key is whether UNLV, which had been noticeably tight in the games leading up to Rice's dismissal, would continue to play that way. The Rebels dominated from the beginning against Air Force and never allowed the Falcons to make a run.

2. This Air Force team is not good at all. It was shocking to see the Falcons, who have a history of giving UNLV fits, not play much defense or get many back-door layups on the offensive end. But the Rebels had played down to their competition, and they didn't in this game. That is something that needs to be carried forward.

3. UNLV outrebounded Air Force 52-20, including 20-5 on the offensive end. That alone speaks to the Rebels' domination in this game and to the effort they expended. UNLV won't continue to own the boards like that, but rebounding is about effort and positioning, and that is something to build upon.

4. After dismal free throw shooting most of the season, UNLV has made 46 of 53 in the past two games. It's easier, though, to shoot free throws when the outcome isn't in doubt. Doing it with the game literally on the line is another matter. That will remain the test.

5. Now comes the road. The Rebels are 1-4 in true road games, and their last trip was a disaster. They lost at Colorado State on Jan. 6 and Wyoming on Jan. 9, bringing an end to Rice's tenure. Maybe this week — with games at Utah State on Tuesday and UNR on Saturday — will show whether this homestand under interim coach Todd Simon is a sign of what's to come.

Contact Mark Anderson at manderson@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2914. Follow him on Twitter: @markanderson65