Desi-Rae Young held back the tears as best she could.

It was emotional to be sure.

It happens when your jersey hangs from the rafters for the first time.

Young, the Desert Oasis High graduate and former star women’s basketball player for UNLV , had her No. 23 jersey retired by the Lady Rebels prior to the home opener against UTSA on Friday night at The Pavilion.

UNLV would defeat the Roadrunners 69-51 on an evening when Young became the fourth Lady Rebel in program history — and first in 23 years — to have her jersey retired.

“It means so much to me,” Young said. “I tried my best not to (cry). Being able to celebrate with my coaches and my teammates and my family means the world.

“I was like, ‘Wow, this is really happening.’ This doesn’t happen for many people so early after a (college career), so I’m just honored. It’s the best night of my life.”

What made it even more special is the fact Young played for the hometown program.

“That part is amazing,” she said.…