LADJI DEMBELE TO JOIN UNLV MEN’S BASKETBALL PROGRAM
6-foot-8-inch, 255-pound forward to transfer to the Runnin’ Rebels from Iowa
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The UNLV men’s basketball program has received a signed commitment from Ladji Dembele to join the Runnin’ Rebels for the 2025-26 season, head coach Josh Pastner announced Tuesday.
Dembele, a 6-foot-8-inch, 255-pound forward from Newark, New Jersey, is transferring from Iowa where he played the past two seasons. He appeared in a total of 65 games for the Hawkeyes.
As a sophomore this past season, he started 21 games and shot 46.7% from the field, including 38.2% on 3-pointers, and was 71.4% from the free-throw line. As a freshman in 2023-24, he was the co-recipient of the team’s Best Defensive Player Award.
“We are excited about the addition of Ladji to our team,” Pastner said. “He is a skilled player who exemplifies hard work and toughness. His ability to shoot the ball at a high percentage, combined with his strong defensive presence, will be invaluable to us. We look forward to welcoming him to the Runnin’ Rebel family.”
Dembele, who is the younger brother of former Runnin’ Rebel Cheickna Dembele (2016-20), attended high school at St. Benedict’s Prep. Originally from Mali, Africa, he was ranked as a four-star recruit in the class of 2023 by Rivals. Prior to committing to Iowa, he held offers from Wake Forest, DePaul, Pittsburgh, Rutgers, Seton Hall and Xavier.
Dembele joins Mason Abittan, Howie Fleming Jr., Dravyn Gibbs-Lawhorn, Al Green, Tyrin Jones, Emmanuel Stephen and Issac Williamson as incoming players to the Runnin’ Rebel program for the 2025-26 season. James Evans Jr. and Jacob Bannarbie have also committed to return to the program from last season’s roster.
2025-26 SEASON TICKETS: The season ticket renewal process for Runnin’ Rebel basketball at the Thomas & Mack Center is underway, with the renewal deadline set for June 2. New season tickets are also available now, starting at just $115. Under the leadership of new head coach Josh Pastner, fans can look forward to an exciting season ahead. For purchase or additional information, please visit UNLVtickets.com or call (702) 739-FANS (3267).
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Ladji Dembele To Join Runnin' Rebel Program
DescriptionLadji Dembele To Join Runnin' Rebel Program