Rebels’ Holden leaving program

Steve Addy

Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2001 | 11:06 a.m.

Jamal Holden's brief tenure with the Rebels is already over.

The 6-foot-10 junior center, who had struggled to get playing time, will likely transfer to another school it was confirmed today, as UNLV granted Holden his release from the program.

"Jamal has decided that it is in his best interest to pursue other opportunities in college basketball closer to his home," said Rebel coach Charlie Spoonhour.

Holden missed Monday's practice, the team's first since the end of fall exams. The absence was not excused, and Spoonhour was baffled because he had seen Holden in the basketball office before practice.

Spoonhour said he spoke with Holden on Monday night and again today.

"He is a fine young man and we wish him nothing but the best in the future," Spoonhour said

Spoonhour signed Holden in May after Bobby Knight released him from his letter of intent at Texas Tech, and Holden was viewed as UNLV's likely starting center. But he hasn't started, and has 11 points and 11 rebounds in five appearances (40 minutes).

Holden also missed two practices for personal reasons Nov. 29-30, but stayed with the club after meeting with Spoonhour. He logged three scoreless minutes Saturday in the Rebels' 70-68 win at Loyola Marymount.

Johnson racked up 23 points, 11 rebounds and six steals, guiding UNLV back from a 16-point halftime deficit. His steals were his career high and the most in the MWC this year. His 18.6 scoring average ranks second in the league behind San Diego State's Tony Bland (18.9).

At Spoonhour's radio show from 7-8 tonight at the ESPN Zone, fans who bring a toy will receive a UNR ticket and an ESPN Zone arcade token. UNLV players will sign autographs. Toys are also being accepted at the Thomas & Mack Center box office.