In Las Vegas, it has been revealed that Josh Pastner, formerly the head coach at both Georgia Tech and Memphis, is taking the helm at UNLV’s basketball program, according to information provided by two individuals familiar with the hiring process. These sources opted for anonymity as there hasn’t been an official announcement yet. One insider described it as a “done deal.”
Pastner is stepping into the shoes of Kevin Kruger, who was dismissed from his role on March 15. Kruger’s tenure saw a record of 76-55 over four seasons without securing a spot in the NCAA Tournament. UNLV, once a powerhouse in college basketball and champions in 1990, has struggled in recent years. The last time they participated in the NCAA Tournament was in 2013, and their most recent advancement beyond the first rounds was in 2007.
At 47, Pastner’s objective will be to revitalize the team and restore it to its former glory. His stint at Georgia Tech, from 2016 to 2023, concluded with a 109-114 record, with both of his final seasons ending in losing records. Nonetheless, he achieved notable success in the 2021 season by leading the Yellow Jackets to triumph in the Atlantic Coast Conference Tournament and securing an NCAA Tournament berth. His efforts in 2017 earned him the honor of ACC Coach of the Year after a 21-16 season.
Pastner’s most significant accomplishments came during his time at Memphis, where he secured a 167-73 record from 2009 to 2016. Under his leadership, the Tigers appeared in four NCAA Tournaments, won three Conference USA Tournament championships, and claimed two regular-season titles.