Dec 19, 2015; Tucson, AZ, USA; UNLV Rebels head coach Dave Rice signals during the second half against the Arizona Wildcats at McKale Center. Arizona won 82-70. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 22, 2015; Las Vegas, NV, USA; UNLV Runnin‘ Rebels head coach Dave Rice talks to a player in a huddle during a game against South Dakota at Thomas & Mack Center. UNLV won the game 103-68. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
I remember the telephone conversation, the optimism in his voice and determination to build a winning basketball program and excitement about coming home.