Nevada notes: Capellino debuts for SF State

RENO " Ex-South Tahoe star Vince Capellino made his college debut in front of a contingent of friends and family.

Capellino, a freshman at San Francisco State, played 13 minutes and scored five points in the Gators' 89-67 loss to Nevada Saturday night at Lawlor Events Center.

"I played more than I expected," Capellino said. "I felt pretty comfortable. When I found out this summer (about playing Nevada), I was very excited."

Capellino played seven minutes in the first half and hit his only field goal. He knocked down a 3-pointer and finished with five points in 13 minutes.

"I was really excited (for him)," SF State coach Bill Treseler said. "He played with as much confidence as any of our guys. I was happy to see him hit a couple of shots."

The 6-foot-6 Capellino said the coaching staff wants him to gain some weight and get stronger. The former Viking said he wants to play better defense.

ARMON GRABS SOME PINE

Armon Johnson, the WAC Preseason Player of the Year, played just 16 minutes in the contest and for good reason.

Johnson had six points, four assists, three turnovers and one steal. He came in and out of the game several times.

Johnson left the game for good midway through the second half and never returned.

"I chose not to play him," Fox said. "He chose not to play, so I held him out."

SHAW RUNS POINT

Joey Shaw, whose debut included 25 points and seven rebounds, played a little bit at point guard.

"We need a third point," Fox said. "It's not something we just threw at him. He's been working there at practice."

"I haven't done that since high school," Shaw said.

STILL SHORTHANDED

Nevada played with just nine players, as Brandon Fields, London Giles and Ahyaro Phillips are still suspended.

One player who is benefiting from that and got more time than expected was Adam Carp, who earned a scholarship this season. Carp played 11 minutes, scored four points and grabbed three rebounds.

"I think we can get some minutes out of Adam," Fox said. "Nine is what we have, and that's what we'll go with."

DID YOU KNOW

Over the last five seasons, dating back to the 2003-04 season, Nevada has the best overall record in the WAC and best WAC record.

Nevada is 127-39 overall and 68-16 in conference. .

UP NEXT

Nevada starts playing for keeps next Saturday when it starts a two-game road swing at Montana State and San Diego.

Nevada beat both teams at home last year, knocking off Montana State 82-76 and San Diego 76-62.

Nevada's regular-season home opener is Nov. 22 against Oregon State. Nevada beat the Beavers 75-47 two years ago.