UNLV men’s basketball coach Josh Pastner issued a clarification Monday after comments he made last week about the athletic department seeking an “owner” for the Rebels program in the NIL era.
In a statement posted on the program’s social media channels, Pastner addressed his previous remarks, which referenced the changing financial landscape surrounding college athletics and name, image and likeness opportunities.
The comments drew attention because of the use of the term “owner,” a phrase more commonly associated with professional sports than college programs. Pastner’s clarification was aimed at explaining the context of his remarks as UNLV continues to navigate the realities of roster building and program support under current NIL rules.
UNLV Navigates NIL Era
College basketball programs across the country have adjusted to a new environment in which NIL resources play a significant role in recruiting, retention and overall competitiveness. Pastner’s statement placed his comments within that broader context while clarifying the intent behind his wording.
UNLV has not announced any structural change to the men’s basketball program related to ownership. Pastner’s clarification centered on his language and the program’s approach to operating in the modern college basketball landscape.