Overmatched UC Irvine Falls Prey to Wolf Pack

Lawlor Center can be a difficult place for opposing basketball teams these days, even when Nevada is not at the top of its game.

But when the Wolf Pack is rolling offensively, the way it was Saturday night, it can be even more of a challenge for a visitor. Just ask UC Irvine, which faced an uphill battle all the way.

All the pieces seemed to fit together offensively for Nevada and the Wolf Pack, despite an inconsistent defense, went on to win the Big West Conference game, 95-79, before 5,681.

It was the fourth consecutive victory at home and eighth in 10 home games for Nevada, 12-9 overall and 8-5 in the Big West. Irvine is 8-12 and 4-9.

Considerable credit for Nevada’s strong offensive play went to junior guard Brian Green, who put on a three-point shooting show in the first half and finished with a season-high 29 points.

Green made seven of 12 shots from the field in the first half, including five of eight from three-point range.

“We could never get over the hump,” Irvine Coach Rod Baker said. “We would get the game back to where it was manageable, but never could get over it.”

Green had 15-point scoring support from forward Jimmy Moore and 14 points from backup guard Shawn Pughsley. Point guard Ethan O”Bryant directed the attack well and had 14 assists.

Junior Michael Tate led Irvine with a career-high 17 points.