Runnin’ Rebels Star Larry Johnson Reflects on ’90 UNLV Title Team

Larry Johnson, Stacey Augmon, Anderson Hunt, Greg Anthony, and their fellow players from the Runnin’ Rebels are finally getting their moment in the spotlight with an upcoming documentary. This film will focus on their legendary 1990 NCAA Championship team, which they proudly claim is the greatest ever in college basketball history. Fans and newcomers alike can look forward to a deep dive into the team’s journey, showcasing their unforgettable moments and unmatched talent.

During a recent announcement, Johnson, Augmon, and Hunt joined Babcock to unveil their exciting new project titled UNLV: Kings Of Vegas. This documentary promises to deliver the authentic story of their iconic team, revealing never-before-told stories and insights that fans have long awaited. It aims to provide an in-depth exploration of the challenges they faced and the triumphs they achieved, ensuring that their legacy is preserved for future generations.

“It was long overdue,” Hunt expressed during the reveal, emphasizing the importance of sharing their experiences. “To tell the story through our eyes.” This sentiment highlights their desire to connect with fans on a personal level, allowing them to see the journey through the perspectives of those who lived it. The documentary aims to bridge the gap between past and present, offering viewers an authentic glimpse into their lives and the impact they had on the sport.

“There’s been many stories written about us. We’ve been talked about,” Augmon continued, emphasizing the unique nature of this documentary. “One thing about this story, and it’s our story. It’s coming from our vision, our eyes, our voice, and it’s not edited. This story is gonna be told by us, and we’re gonna let it hang!” This approach ensures that their narrative remains authentic and unfiltered, allowing fans to connect with the real stories behind their legendary status.

The legendary 1989-1990 UNLV Runnin’ Rebels, under the expert guidance of coach Jerry Tarkanian, entered the NCAA tournament as the number one seed. They showcased their dominance by defeating notable teams such as Arkansas-Little Rock, Ohio State, Ball State, and Loyola Marymount, which set the stage for their thrilling matchup against Georgia Tech. Each game highlighted their exceptional teamwork and skill, solidifying their reputation as a formidable contender in college basketball.

In a nail-biting contest, UNLV faced off against Kenny Anderson and his Georgia Tech team, ultimately sending them home with a hard-fought victory. Despite the close nature of the game, UNLV’s skill and determination shone through, earning them a coveted spot in the championship game against the Duke Blue Devils, coached by the legendary Mike Krzyzewski. This pivotal moment in their journey further established their legacy within the realm of college basketball.

On April 2, 1990, the highly anticipated championship game took place at McNichols Sports Arena in Denver, Colorado. This matchup was framed by many as a classic battle of good versus evil, with the well-regarded Duke team representing “good” and the Runnin’ Rebels facing scrutiny and racial stereotypes. The stage was set for an unforgettable showdown that would ultimately go down in history.

The Runnin’ Rebels dominated the game, decisively defeating Coach K’s Blue Devils with an incredible score of 103-73. This victory not only secured their place in history but also solidified their reputation as one of the most formidable teams in college basketball. Their performance that day showcased their unparalleled talent, teamwork, and determination, leaving a lasting legacy in NCAA history.

Given their ultra-impressive season, we had the opportunity to ask Larry, Stacey, and Anderson how they perceive their team’s legacy in the realm of college basketball. Their insights offer a window into their pride and confidence in their achievements, as well as their thoughts on how they compare with other legendary teams.

There wasn’t much hesitation from the trio when it came to their standing in college basketball history. They confidently asserted their place right at the very top, a testament to their remarkable achievements and the lasting impact they have had on the sport.

“I’ll put the team up against anybody. Anybody,” Hunt stated, as he reflected on their accomplishments. He mentioned some of the most formidable squads in basketball history, including Michael Jordan‘s 1982 UNC team, which also clinched a national championship. This assertion reinforces their confidence in their skills and the legacy they built during their time on the court.

“Like Hunt said, you got those great UCLA teams, and you got Indiana that went undefeated one year, but we could’ve beaten anybody at any time, bro,” LJ declared confidently, a statement that Stacey enthusiastically endorsed. Their conviction in their abilities and experiences speaks volumes about the legacy they created, standing firm as one of the greatest teams in the history of college basketball.

“I agree, number one, no doubt,” Augmon confidently stated, echoing the sentiments of his teammates and solidifying their shared belief in their team’s unparalleled status in college basketball history.

The highly anticipated documentary, which promises to feature commentary from notable figures like Snoop Dogg, Chuck D, Coach K, and others, is set to premiere this fall. This four-part series is being expertly produced by The Real Story LLC and Hidden Empire Sports, the same team responsible for Floyd Mayweather‘s acclaimed documentary The GOAT. Fans can expect an in-depth exploration of the Runnin’ Rebels’ journey and the cultural impact they had on college basketball.