Desi-Rae Young, a proud graduate of Desert Oasis High School and a current standout player for the UNLV Lady Rebels, has made significant strides in the world of basketball. Born in Inglewood, California, and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, Young’s journey in basketball began at Desert Oasis High School. She led the girls’ basketball team in points, rebounds, and other key statistics during her time there. Her performance earned her Nevada All-State Team Honorable Mention, All-Southwest League Second Team, and Athlete of the Week honors. She finished her high school career with per-game averages of 11.4 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.5 steals.
Young’s journey continued at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), where she plays center on the UNLV Lady Rebels basketball team. She has been a three-time All-MW honoree, the 2021 MW Freshman of the Year, the 2022 MW Player of the Year, and the 2023 MW Championship MVP. In her senior year, Young averaged 17.9 points per game and 9.1 rebounds per game. She became one of two Lady Rebels to surpass 2,000 career points.
Young’s journey from a promising freshman to a leading senior has been marked by dedication, skill, and leadership, leaving an indelible mark on the program. As she prepares for her future post-graduation, the potential for a promising career in basketball remains strong. Her legacy at UNLV is not just about the points she scored but also about the leadership she exhibited and the standards she set. Her journey serves as a reminder that one can leave a lasting legacy in their chosen field with dedication, skill, and leadership. Desi-Rae Young is a true legend of Desert Oasis and an inspiration for future athletes.
