Josh Pastner reveals unique pitch to investors involved with NBA's Las Vegas franchise: 'Buy the college basketball team'

UNLV men's basketball coach Josh Pastner is making a direct appeal to potential investors eyeing the upcoming NBA expansion into Las Vegas. With a professional team expected to arrive by 2029, Pastner is urging these wealthy individuals to shift their focus toward the college basketball program already in the city.

Pastner points to the massive entry cost of an NBA franchise, which easily runs into the billions. In contrast, he estimates that a capital injection of 10 to 12 million dollars into the UNLV basketball program would be enough to make the Rebels a legitimate contender on the national stage. This investment would provide the necessary funds to compete for top-tier talent against established powerhouses.

Since the golden era of UNLV basketball under Jerry Tarkanian in the early 1990s, the program has struggled to maintain consistent success. Pastner argues that the city's basketball identity is linked to the university's performance. He believes that a successful college team benefits the entire local landscape and creates a stronger connection for the fans.

Beyond the competitive benefits, Pastner highlights the financial utility for investors. A donation of this size qualifies for tax deductions while offering the donor a unique status as a primary stakeholder in the team. Pastner remains firm that while professional basketball is on the horizon, the university represents a tangible opportunity to own a piece of local sports history right now.