Raiders to Celebrate UNLV Championship Legacy at Allegiant Stadium

The legacy of the 1990 UNLV Runnin’ Rebels national championship team is being celebrated on Sunday at Allegiant Stadium. This event precedes the highly anticipated game between the Raiders and the Jaguars. The reunion commemorates the 35th anniversary of the team’s remarkable title run, where they defeated Duke with a score of 103-73. This victory remains the largest margin in championship game history.

Ceremonial Events and Honors

The pre-game festivities include lighting the Al Davis Memorial Torch, an honor that pays tribute to both Carol Davis and George Atkinson. Carol Davis, who passed away on October 24 at the age of 93, was celebrated as the First Lady of Raider Nation. She was instrumental in the team’s history, alongside her son, current franchise owner, Mark Davis.

A moment of silence will be observed before the national anthem, and a video montage will honor Carol Davis. The late George Atkinson, who died recently at age 78, will also be remembered. Atkinson was a close friend of Al Davis and frequently seen in the owner’s box during games.

Additional Highlights

• The Al Davis Memorial Torch will be lit in honor of both Carol Davis and George Atkinson.
• A black shield featuring Atkinson’s No. 43 will be placed high above the end zone.
• A video tribute to both figures will take place during the break between the first and second quarters.

Halftime Entertainment

Adding to the excitement, the halftime show will feature the iconic R&B band Kool & The Gang, led by co-founder Robert “Kool” Bell. The performance will include classics like “Jungle Boogie” and “Celebration,” promising to energize the crowd.

Additionally, Tony Award-winner Renée Elise Goldsberry will perform the national anthem. As a former star of Broadway’s “Hamilton,” her presence adds prestige to this memorable occasion.

Event Details

Game time is set for 1:05 p.m. Fans are encouraged to arrive 45 minutes early to fully experience the events planned. This Sunday’s production is expected to be one of the Raiders’ most impressive displays to date.

For those interested in more local entertainment, throwback showman Art Vargas will perform at The Composers Room in the Historic Commercial Center at 7 p.m. on Saturday, featuring guest star Laura Shaffer.