Dedan Thomas Jr. Reclasses And Chooses To Become A Runnin’ Rebel

Thomas Jr., who is a five-star recruit, ranked as the 22nd-best prospect in the class of 2024 by 247 Sports and is one of the best prep point guards in the nation, has decided to reclass and become a Runnin’ Rebel freshman for the 2023-24 season.

Also known as D.J. Thomas, he is the son of Runnin’ Rebel legend Dedan Thomas Sr. who played for UNLV from 1991-94. D.J.’s father earned honorable mention All-America honors in college and his name appears throughout the UNLV record books.

“We couldn’t be more excited to have D.J. become a Runnin’ Rebel,” Kruger said. “It is always great to be able to add a talented local player to the roster and him being a legacy student-athlete makes it special. We are looking forward to having D.J. as a part of our program with the winning pedigree he brings as a point guard.”

Thomas Jr, a Las Vegas native and 6-foot-1-inch point guard, averaged 22.8 points and 5.1 assists per game as a junior this season at Liberty High School, leading the Patriots to the state championship final for a second straight year. He was recently named the Gatorade Player of the Year for the state of Nevada.

“Reclassing up is the best decision for me and I believe I am ready for it,” Thomas Jr. said. “I have accomplished each one of the goals that I had set for myself during my high school career. The situation at UNLV for me to come into right now is a great one and will benefit me most for my long-term goals. Most of all, I’m excited about staying in Las Vegas, attending UNLV and playing in front of the Runnin’ Rebel faithful. I can’t wait to get this thing going. Go Rebels!”

As a sophomore in 2021-22, Thomas Jr. led his school to the 5A state championship, averaging 13.3 points per game that season.

Thomas Jr. chose UNLV over Arizona, Florida, Gonzaga, Houston and UCLA, and joins Kalib Boone, Keylan Boone, Brooklyn Hicks, Jalen Hill and Rob Whaley Jr. as the six new student-athletes who have been added to the Runnin’ Rebel roster for the 2023-24 season.

2023-24 SEASON TICKETS: The season ticket renewal process is underway with the renewal deadline set for June 30. New season tickets are also available to purchase. To buy or for more information, visit UNLVtickets.com or click here.