It was nice to see Utah get a win in their final home game of the season after having such a rough year. The Utes knocked off a Stanford team that has won 19 games this year.
I remember when I was watching Utah get pounded by Boise State at the start of the season, analyst Joe Cravens remarked that when he used to coach against Larry Krystkowiak in the Big Sky that Krystkowiak's teams always seemed to be getting better. Cravens also said that there was no doubt in his mind that Krystkowiak was the right guy for the job at Utah.
I remember having my doubts at the time because the Runnin' Utes looked really bad that night in Boise. However, I will say that despite the lack of talent on this year's team, Utah has gotten better throughout the season. Also, they have been playing hard the last several games despite the numerous losses.
It seems that the future is probably bright for the Utes under Larry Krystkowiak. I'm excited for next season and for the end of this season. Utah is at Oregon State tomorrow night at 8 p.m. MT.
Showing posts with label Utah Runnin' Utes. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Utah Runnin' Utes. Show all posts
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Carlon Brown returns to Utah
Utah (5-20, 2-11 Pac-12) hosts Colorado (17-8, 9-4 Pac-12) today at 3 p.m. MT on FSN and Root Sports affiliates. The big story in this one is that Colorado senior Carlon Brown will be returning to the Huntsman Center after spending his first three seasons of eligibility at Utah. Brown transferred after his junior season after a number of run-ins with then Utah coach Jim Boylen.
It's hard to know exactly what the circumstances were regarding Brown's departure, but I will say that it was apparent that he and Boylen were clearly not on the same page during Brown's junior year of 2009-2010. I remember when reading quotes after numerous games, that Brown and Boylen would say almost exactly the opposite things from each other. That's never a good sign.
Brown has said this week a number of the cliche things like he doesn't want to talk about it, it's just another game, etc. However, he has in my opinion slipped in a few things about Utah in a few of his comments. In remarks to the Deseret News, Brown said he felt he could be used better somewhere else than he was being used at Utah.
When asked about his rationale for transferring, Brown, following saying he didn't want to get into it, said that you would have to have been there to understand and used the word endure to describe film sessions. That makes me think that Boylen wasn't exactly being soft on his players. Particularly, it makes me think that Brown (and others, Marshall Henderson comes to mind) weren't very receptive to ways in which they could improve their games. It was clear watching that team that there was some disconnect and that the players didn't always buy in.
I also found it interesting that in comments to the Denver Post, Brown said he wouldn't have come to Colorado if former coach Jeff Bzdelik was still coaching the Buffaloes, saying he likes current coach Tad Boyle's system. Maybe I'm reading too much into it, but it sounds like Brown has a bit of his own agenda.
Granted, Brown is having a nice year, averaging almost exactly the same amount of points per game this year as he did in his junior year at Utah. He also doesn't seem like he wants to cause too much controversy in advance of today's game in Salt Lake City. However, I think his comments are telling about him as a player and also underlie some resentment toward his time at Utah.
I'm excited about the game today and it really would make this year a lot less painful for me if the Runnin' Utes could somehow pull out this game given Brown's return to the Huntsman Center. I'm hopeful the Utes can build on their encouraging performance at Arizona last Saturday.
It's hard to know exactly what the circumstances were regarding Brown's departure, but I will say that it was apparent that he and Boylen were clearly not on the same page during Brown's junior year of 2009-2010. I remember when reading quotes after numerous games, that Brown and Boylen would say almost exactly the opposite things from each other. That's never a good sign.
Brown has said this week a number of the cliche things like he doesn't want to talk about it, it's just another game, etc. However, he has in my opinion slipped in a few things about Utah in a few of his comments. In remarks to the Deseret News, Brown said he felt he could be used better somewhere else than he was being used at Utah.
When asked about his rationale for transferring, Brown, following saying he didn't want to get into it, said that you would have to have been there to understand and used the word endure to describe film sessions. That makes me think that Boylen wasn't exactly being soft on his players. Particularly, it makes me think that Brown (and others, Marshall Henderson comes to mind) weren't very receptive to ways in which they could improve their games. It was clear watching that team that there was some disconnect and that the players didn't always buy in.
I also found it interesting that in comments to the Denver Post, Brown said he wouldn't have come to Colorado if former coach Jeff Bzdelik was still coaching the Buffaloes, saying he likes current coach Tad Boyle's system. Maybe I'm reading too much into it, but it sounds like Brown has a bit of his own agenda.
Granted, Brown is having a nice year, averaging almost exactly the same amount of points per game this year as he did in his junior year at Utah. He also doesn't seem like he wants to cause too much controversy in advance of today's game in Salt Lake City. However, I think his comments are telling about him as a player and also underlie some resentment toward his time at Utah.
I'm excited about the game today and it really would make this year a lot less painful for me if the Runnin' Utes could somehow pull out this game given Brown's return to the Huntsman Center. I'm hopeful the Utes can build on their encouraging performance at Arizona last Saturday.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Runnin' Utes still winless on the road
The Runnin' Utes lost to Arizona State on the road tonight in a close one. First off, I could have sworn that this game started at 8:30 p.m. MT. I thought that's what I heard all week, including at the Coach's Show on Monday night. Well, it started at 6:30 MT and as a result, I didn't realize it was going on until there were about 12 minutes or so left.
I was able to watch the end via an online feed on foxsportsarizona.com. Utah looked sloppy for a little while and it just made its push too late. Kareem Storey banked in a three to make things interesting toward the end, but the Sun Devils pulled it out. Utah looks to me like it will finish the season without a road win. Next up is another road one at Arizona on Saturday at noon MT (I think), a game which will be televised on Root Sports.
9:26 p.m.: Back on here, come to think of it, they may have said 6:30 at the Coaches Show on Monday, although I may have thought was incorrect at the time. I still thought I had previously seen 8:30 on utahutes.com. I guess I will need to do better at double-checking, particularly the day of the game. Quite a frustrating situation.
I was able to watch the end via an online feed on foxsportsarizona.com. Utah looked sloppy for a little while and it just made its push too late. Kareem Storey banked in a three to make things interesting toward the end, but the Sun Devils pulled it out. Utah looks to me like it will finish the season without a road win. Next up is another road one at Arizona on Saturday at noon MT (I think), a game which will be televised on Root Sports.
9:26 p.m.: Back on here, come to think of it, they may have said 6:30 at the Coaches Show on Monday, although I may have thought was incorrect at the time. I still thought I had previously seen 8:30 on utahutes.com. I guess I will need to do better at double-checking, particularly the day of the game. Quite a frustrating situation.
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Runnin' Utes update
The Utah Runnin' Utes got swept by the Oregon schools this weekend. The Runnin' Utes hung with Oregon and actually had led by 8 and still had the lead with 6 minutes to go, but it appeared the Utes just ran out of steam. The Ducks looked much deeper and were able to keep pressure applied to Utah, who was going with a short rotation.
Today against Oregon State, the Beavers jumped out to a double digit lead in the first half. It looked like the Utes weren't playing with enough defensive intensity and were certainly hurt by starters Kareem Storey and Dijon Farr being in foul trouble and having to sit out much of the half. The Utes were able to play with the Beavers in the second half, but just got into too big of a hole.
I think Utah could still win a couple more games this year, but they will have to play hard for 40 minutes and stay out of foul trouble. I've heard coach Larry Krystkowiak has a solid recruiting class coming in and that couple with a few key cogs returning should help the Utes be deeper and more competitive next year. Unfortunately, it's been a painful rebuilding season for Utah. The Runnin' Utes visit Arizona State next Thursday night and Arizona next Saturday.
Today against Oregon State, the Beavers jumped out to a double digit lead in the first half. It looked like the Utes weren't playing with enough defensive intensity and were certainly hurt by starters Kareem Storey and Dijon Farr being in foul trouble and having to sit out much of the half. The Utes were able to play with the Beavers in the second half, but just got into too big of a hole.
I think Utah could still win a couple more games this year, but they will have to play hard for 40 minutes and stay out of foul trouble. I've heard coach Larry Krystkowiak has a solid recruiting class coming in and that couple with a few key cogs returning should help the Utes be deeper and more competitive next year. Unfortunately, it's been a painful rebuilding season for Utah. The Runnin' Utes visit Arizona State next Thursday night and Arizona next Saturday.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Jiggy Watkins dismissed from Runnin' Utes
Utah point guard Jiggy Watkins has been dismissed from the team. Watkins was clearly Utah's best player throughout the season on what is a struggling team. I don't imagine things will get much better for the Runnin' Utes the rest of the year. However, without knowing all the facts, it appears to speak highly of coach Larry Krystkowiak that he would be willing to stand up to his best player even when he has to know it could mean substantially more struggles the rest of the year.
It appears that Watkins repeatedly broke team rules. It's important for any coach to establish discipline on his team. I'm hoping the Utes do make some strides the rest of this year and have a better season next year. Utah (4-13, 1-4 Pac-12) hosts Arizona (12-6, 3-2 Pac-12) tomorrow night at 6:30 p.m. MT. The game is not available on TV in Salt Lake City, although it will be televised on Fox Sports Arizona.
It appears that Watkins repeatedly broke team rules. It's important for any coach to establish discipline on his team. I'm hoping the Utes do make some strides the rest of this year and have a better season next year. Utah (4-13, 1-4 Pac-12) hosts Arizona (12-6, 3-2 Pac-12) tomorrow night at 6:30 p.m. MT. The game is not available on TV in Salt Lake City, although it will be televised on Fox Sports Arizona.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Two straight wins for Utes; big games from Washburn
The Utah Runnin' Utes (3-8) are coming off of two wins in a row, which is quite refreshing following a string of eight straight losses.
Jason Washburn, in particular, has caught my eye the past couple of games. Washburn, a junior, has put up high numbers of points on offense, but also grabbed a lot of rebounds. In the game Monday against Portland (3-9), Washburn had a pair of huge blocks down the stretch of a tight game.
Perhaps most of all, I have noticed that Washburn is a much better free throw shooter this year. It shows that he has been working really hard at that facet of his game. I'm hoping this improvement from Washburn continues and he keeps putting up games like he did against Idaho State (2-8) and Portland. This kind of production is more of what I expected from Washburn when he came in a couple of years ago. I've always liked Washburn, but felt he could be more consistent. These last two games have really upped my hopes.
I realize the competition hasn't been the stiffest in the last two games, but it is really good for this group of Utes to get a couple of wins in a row. Utah goes on the road to face in-state rival Weber State (7-3) tomorrow night at 7 p.m. MT. The game can be seen on Altitude TV (channel 681 DirecTV, channel 61 Comcast in Salt Lake City). I'll be on the scene and will tweet out updates from Ogden. Go Utes! (P.S., here is an interesting link about recruit Jordan Loveridge).
Jason Washburn, in particular, has caught my eye the past couple of games. Washburn, a junior, has put up high numbers of points on offense, but also grabbed a lot of rebounds. In the game Monday against Portland (3-9), Washburn had a pair of huge blocks down the stretch of a tight game.
Perhaps most of all, I have noticed that Washburn is a much better free throw shooter this year. It shows that he has been working really hard at that facet of his game. I'm hoping this improvement from Washburn continues and he keeps putting up games like he did against Idaho State (2-8) and Portland. This kind of production is more of what I expected from Washburn when he came in a couple of years ago. I've always liked Washburn, but felt he could be more consistent. These last two games have really upped my hopes.
I realize the competition hasn't been the stiffest in the last two games, but it is really good for this group of Utes to get a couple of wins in a row. Utah goes on the road to face in-state rival Weber State (7-3) tomorrow night at 7 p.m. MT. The game can be seen on Altitude TV (channel 681 DirecTV, channel 61 Comcast in Salt Lake City). I'll be on the scene and will tweet out updates from Ogden. Go Utes! (P.S., here is an interesting link about recruit Jordan Loveridge).
Monday, December 5, 2011
Jiggy Watkins suspended
Pictured: Jiggy Watkins, who has been suspended by Utah coach Larry Krystkowiak.Utah (1-6) guard Jiggy Watkins has been suspended for a violation of team rules. The Salt Lake Tribune reported that Watkins was late to practice on Monday and that his breaking of team rules had become a recurring problem. Watkins was leading the Runnin' Utes with 17.7 points per game and 4.9 assists per game.
It was already looking like a long season for Utah, but now that the Runnin' Utes have lost far and away their best player for an indefinite amount of time, well it could be even worse that what I was bracing for, if that is even possible. Watkins provided a lot for the team, especially on the offensive end of the floor. He was the only player who had been a consistent force throughout the season.
On the other hand, players have to keep team rules. I don't know too many of the details, but if we are to believe what he said at his coaches' show tonight, coach Larry Krystkowiak didn't have much of a choice. It's too bad. I understand that discipline and rules are among the most important things in sports and in life for that matter. So, hopefully Watkins can straighten things out and return to the court this season. We all know that the Utes need him.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Rough weekend for Runnin' Utes
It was a bad weekend for the Utah (1-5) basketball team. The Runnin' Utes lost to Harvard (6-0), Massachusetts (5-2) and UNC Asheville (3-4) by scores of 75-47, 90-75 and 87-65 at the Battle 4 Atlantis Tournament in the Bahamas.
I don't have HDNet, so I wasn't able to actually watch any of the three games, but the scores speak for themselves. Harvard is actually a good team, believe it or not, and will probably be ranked this week. I'm not as well versed on UMass and UNC Asheville, but based on the Bulldogs' record, it doesn't appear that they are world beaters. UMass picked up their only win of the tournament against the Utes.
In looking at the statistics, it appears Utah actually had a pretty good shooting night against UMass. It's alarming that they still lost that game by 15 points. I don't give the Runnin' Utes much of a chance in their next game at Fresno State (2-4) on Saturday at 2 p.m. MT. Following this, Utah has four straight home games, three of which are against teams that one would think aren't exactly top notch. So, I'm hopeful that Utah can pick up a win or two in that stretch or this thing could get really ugly.
This Utah team appears to be much worse than last year, as last year's group actually was competitive in a number of games and posted a 13-18 record, including 7-7 in non-conference play. I can tell you right now that I will be shocked if Utah is anywhere near 7-7 going into Pac-12 play this year. Hopefully they can improve and pick a few wins, but as I've said before, it looks like it will be a long year.
I don't have HDNet, so I wasn't able to actually watch any of the three games, but the scores speak for themselves. Harvard is actually a good team, believe it or not, and will probably be ranked this week. I'm not as well versed on UMass and UNC Asheville, but based on the Bulldogs' record, it doesn't appear that they are world beaters. UMass picked up their only win of the tournament against the Utes.
In looking at the statistics, it appears Utah actually had a pretty good shooting night against UMass. It's alarming that they still lost that game by 15 points. I don't give the Runnin' Utes much of a chance in their next game at Fresno State (2-4) on Saturday at 2 p.m. MT. Following this, Utah has four straight home games, three of which are against teams that one would think aren't exactly top notch. So, I'm hopeful that Utah can pick up a win or two in that stretch or this thing could get really ugly.
This Utah team appears to be much worse than last year, as last year's group actually was competitive in a number of games and posted a 13-18 record, including 7-7 in non-conference play. I can tell you right now that I will be shocked if Utah is anywhere near 7-7 going into Pac-12 play this year. Hopefully they can improve and pick a few wins, but as I've said before, it looks like it will be a long year.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Runnin' Utes blown out by Boise State
Utah (1-1) lost tonight at Boise State (2-0) by a score of 80-59. This win comes on the heels of the Runnin' Utes topping San Diego Christian College, an NAIA school, on Monday night by a score of 58-55.
I have not been impressed at all with the Utes so far this year. Honestly, they don't look like they know what they're doing out there. I know it's early, but this year's Utah team looks like the least talented Utes team I have ever seen -- not a good thing when entering the first year in the Pac-12. The team looks like it's playing pretty hard out there, they just don't look like they have a lot of talent.
Jiggy Watkins led the Utes with 19 points. Watkins so far has looked like by far the best Utah player. However, he can't do everything by himself. I expect more production from center Jason Washburn, who had 5 points and 6 rebounds in 25 minutes tonight. Sometimes I feel like Washburn just needs to play smarter. He's got talent, but he needs to keep his head in the game.
Look, I'm sure Utah will play better as the season goes on and the team gets more time to mesh and gel. So, we'll see if I'm overreacting. Maybe Boise State will turn out to be a better team than I'm expecting, but I still see tonight as an embarrassing loss. Larry Krystkowiak hasn't exactly set the world on fire in his first two games as head coach, but I'm willing to give him some time. I don't think the talent is all that great this year, as I alluded to. I think this team will get better, but this looks to have all the makings of a long year.
The Runnin' Utes host Montana State (1-1) on Saturday afternoon at 1 p.m. There is no television for the game, but you can watch a live stream of the game via utahutes.com
I have not been impressed at all with the Utes so far this year. Honestly, they don't look like they know what they're doing out there. I know it's early, but this year's Utah team looks like the least talented Utes team I have ever seen -- not a good thing when entering the first year in the Pac-12. The team looks like it's playing pretty hard out there, they just don't look like they have a lot of talent.
Jiggy Watkins led the Utes with 19 points. Watkins so far has looked like by far the best Utah player. However, he can't do everything by himself. I expect more production from center Jason Washburn, who had 5 points and 6 rebounds in 25 minutes tonight. Sometimes I feel like Washburn just needs to play smarter. He's got talent, but he needs to keep his head in the game.
Look, I'm sure Utah will play better as the season goes on and the team gets more time to mesh and gel. So, we'll see if I'm overreacting. Maybe Boise State will turn out to be a better team than I'm expecting, but I still see tonight as an embarrassing loss. Larry Krystkowiak hasn't exactly set the world on fire in his first two games as head coach, but I'm willing to give him some time. I don't think the talent is all that great this year, as I alluded to. I think this team will get better, but this looks to have all the makings of a long year.
The Runnin' Utes host Montana State (1-1) on Saturday afternoon at 1 p.m. There is no television for the game, but you can watch a live stream of the game via utahutes.com
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Runnin' Utes drop exhibition to DII Adams State
The Utah Runnin' Utes (0-0) basketball team lost an exhibition game to Division II school Adams State (0-0) 61-60 last night at the Huntsman Center in Salt Lake City. Freshman Kareem Story called a time-out that the Runnin' Utes didn't have with about 11 seconds left in a tie game and Adams State cashed in on one of the two resulting technical free throws. It leaves me with a sickening feeling to lose to a Division II school. On the bright side of things, the game was just an exhibition and therefore does not count against the team's record.
It makes me feel a little better that Butler, West Virginia and Arizona also lost exhibition games at home to similar type schools this preseason. However, it just isn't good form to lose to a DII school, even in a game that doesn't count. But, I'm going to try not to read too much into it for now. Coach Larry Krystkowiak said after the game that the phantom time-out was on the coaches; it sounded like it hadn't been discussed by the team. That shouldn't happen, the coaches should make sure the team knows there are no more time-outs, though the players should know this, too.
Utah opens up the regular season on Monday, November 14th against San Diego Christian College (0-0), an NAIA school. Adams State actually takes on Utah State (0-0) in Logan at 4 p.m. MT today in another exhibition game.
It makes me feel a little better that Butler, West Virginia and Arizona also lost exhibition games at home to similar type schools this preseason. However, it just isn't good form to lose to a DII school, even in a game that doesn't count. But, I'm going to try not to read too much into it for now. Coach Larry Krystkowiak said after the game that the phantom time-out was on the coaches; it sounded like it hadn't been discussed by the team. That shouldn't happen, the coaches should make sure the team knows there are no more time-outs, though the players should know this, too.
Utah opens up the regular season on Monday, November 14th against San Diego Christian College (0-0), an NAIA school. Adams State actually takes on Utah State (0-0) in Logan at 4 p.m. MT today in another exhibition game.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Utah basketball may not play Utah State
Utah is all set to join the Pac-12 in just another day or two. There are plans for a Pac-12 Day celebration. However, I find it unfortunate that Athletic Director Chris Hill has apparently decided to put plans on hold to play Utah State regularly in basketball. The two teams have met annually for over a half-century and to me, it's a great rivalry. I know Utah has usually lost up in Logan, but it sure has been a fun atmosphere to play in. I hate to lose that. The home team has usually won and I think Utah could still use the Aggies as a great game on an annual basis. It means a lot to people here and I don't think it would really hurt the Runnin' Utes in the RPI department too much if they lost. I'll still always cheer for Utah. I just hate to see a rivalry like that diminish.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
NCAA Tournament under way, thoughts on Utah coaching
The NCAA Tournament gets under way in full force starting tomorrow morning at around 10 a.m. MT. It will be televised on CBS, TBS, TNT and TruTV and is available to watch online at ncaa.com. I've filled out my bracket and starting at 10 a.m. MT tomorrow you can check it out. Let's just call it the winning bracket. You're welcome. My Final Four is Ohio State, Texas, Kansas and Pittsburgh, with Ohio State topping Kansas in the title game.
There is no other time of year quite like the NCAA Tournament, and the best part if you ask me is the first two full days with upsets, exciting finishes and the like. I like how everyone has a chance to win and to prove it on the floor which is not always the case with college football. It's a great time of year. I'll be tweeting updates throughout the day tomorrow and throughout the Tournament as well. I will attempt to do better with the blogging than I have the last week, especially since it is Spring Break for me at the University of Utah this coming week.
Speaking of the U., basketball coach Jim Boylen was dismissed last Saturday. It wasn't too big of a surprise. I feel bad for the guy, he was classy, passionate and poured his heart into the job. I would have liked to see what he would do with another year at the helm. However, I am anxious to see who Utah will hire as their next basketball coach. I was hoping for Billy Gillespie, but reports have surfaced that he has interviewed at Texas Tech. I think Utah is a better job than Tech, but it looks quite possible that Gillespie will take the job as head coach of the Red Raiders this week. I'm a big fan of Colorado State's Tim Miles who built the Rams into an MWC contender from nothing. However, I think it wouldn't hurt to try and go after some bigger names first.
espn.com's Andy Katz had this to say about the Utah job: "Utah is still a very good basketball job. Rick Majerus wasn't the first to prove this point and he won't be the last. The fan base is extremely passionate about the team, and as the football program has proved, it can compete at a high level for a sustained period." It made me happy to read that and see that someone from the national media recognizes what we are all about at Utah, in particular with our basketball program. It's been a rough week and a rough season, especially with the success of our biggest rival, so it was just something nice to read.
There is no other time of year quite like the NCAA Tournament, and the best part if you ask me is the first two full days with upsets, exciting finishes and the like. I like how everyone has a chance to win and to prove it on the floor which is not always the case with college football. It's a great time of year. I'll be tweeting updates throughout the day tomorrow and throughout the Tournament as well. I will attempt to do better with the blogging than I have the last week, especially since it is Spring Break for me at the University of Utah this coming week.
Speaking of the U., basketball coach Jim Boylen was dismissed last Saturday. It wasn't too big of a surprise. I feel bad for the guy, he was classy, passionate and poured his heart into the job. I would have liked to see what he would do with another year at the helm. However, I am anxious to see who Utah will hire as their next basketball coach. I was hoping for Billy Gillespie, but reports have surfaced that he has interviewed at Texas Tech. I think Utah is a better job than Tech, but it looks quite possible that Gillespie will take the job as head coach of the Red Raiders this week. I'm a big fan of Colorado State's Tim Miles who built the Rams into an MWC contender from nothing. However, I think it wouldn't hurt to try and go after some bigger names first.
espn.com's Andy Katz had this to say about the Utah job: "Utah is still a very good basketball job. Rick Majerus wasn't the first to prove this point and he won't be the last. The fan base is extremely passionate about the team, and as the football program has proved, it can compete at a high level for a sustained period." It made me happy to read that and see that someone from the national media recognizes what we are all about at Utah, in particular with our basketball program. It's been a rough week and a rough season, especially with the success of our biggest rival, so it was just something nice to read.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Runnin' Utes blown out by UNLV in home finale
Utah (13-17, 6-10 MWC) dropped their final regular season Mountain West Conference game on Saturday at home to UNLV (23-7, 11-5 MWC) by a score of 78-58. The Rebels jumped out to a huge lead early and never looked back. Utah trailed 47-22 at halftime in what was probably the worst half the Runnin' Utes have played all season. Tre'Von Willis, Oscar Bellfield and Quintrell Thomas all had 12 points for UNLV. Jiggy Watkins of Utah led all scorers with 18 points while Jason Washburn had 12 and Chris Hines 10.
It was a disappointing home finale and I don't exactly have a reason for it. Utah just looked bad in all phases of the game for the opening 20 minutes. At least in the first meeting in Las Vegas, both teams seemed to struggle in an ugly game. UNLV came out sharp in this one, shooting well, playing strong defense and doing a good job on the defensive glass. They looked like a team very ready for the NCAA Tournament.
For whatever reason, the Utes just haven't been able to play many complete games this year. I will say they kept playing hard and didn't appear to quit, but UNLV is just too good of a team to give a 27 point lead (they were able to cut it to as low as 16) and expect to win against. I do think it says something about the character of the guys for continuing to play hard, it's just frustrating that they didn't play better to start the game. Again, I think Utah could have given them a competitive game, but the first half doomed the Utes. Utah just didn't come out with the right energy and attitude. It was very frustrating. Utah's loss ensures them the 7-seed in the MWC Tournament in Las Vegas starting Thursday, meaning they get a first round match-up with #9 San Diego State.
Jay Watkins dressed for the game and was able to play one possession toward the end of the game. I went into detail in my post last night about how great J-Wat has been for the program, so I was glad that he was able to get into the game despite his lingering back injury. He was a guy who really got it and was in touch with the fan base. I was among the students he gave a high-five to after the game -- a really classy move after such a tough loss. He also took a sign that said "The MUSS loves Jay Watkins" with him and seemed genuinely touched by it. Really cool stuff.
In other MWC games on Saturday, #3 BYU (28-3, 14-2 MWC) and #9 San Diego State (29-2, 14-2 MWC) both won at home to earn a share of the conference title. The conference tournament field is all set now, with tie-breakers being taken into account. Here's how it sets up for the first round on Thursday, with seedings noted (BYU gets the winner of the play-in game Wednesday):
(1) BYU (28-3, 14-2 MWC) vs. (8) Wyoming (10-20, 3-13 MWC)/(9) TCU (10-21, 1-15 MWC), 1 p.m. MT
(4) Colorado State (19-11, 9-7 MWC) vs. (5) New Mexico (20-11, 8-8 MWC), 3:30 p.m. MT
(2) San Diego State (29-2, 14-2 MWC) vs. (7) Utah (13-17, 6-10 MWC), 7 p.m. MT
(3) UNLV (23-7, 11-5 MWC) vs. (6) Air Force (15-14, 6-10 MWC), 9:30 p.m. MT
The semis are at 7 and 9:30 p.m. MT on Friday and the title game is at 5 p.m. MT on Saturday. Should be an entertaining tournament. Hopefully my Runnin' Utes can at least show decently down there.
It was a disappointing home finale and I don't exactly have a reason for it. Utah just looked bad in all phases of the game for the opening 20 minutes. At least in the first meeting in Las Vegas, both teams seemed to struggle in an ugly game. UNLV came out sharp in this one, shooting well, playing strong defense and doing a good job on the defensive glass. They looked like a team very ready for the NCAA Tournament.
For whatever reason, the Utes just haven't been able to play many complete games this year. I will say they kept playing hard and didn't appear to quit, but UNLV is just too good of a team to give a 27 point lead (they were able to cut it to as low as 16) and expect to win against. I do think it says something about the character of the guys for continuing to play hard, it's just frustrating that they didn't play better to start the game. Again, I think Utah could have given them a competitive game, but the first half doomed the Utes. Utah just didn't come out with the right energy and attitude. It was very frustrating. Utah's loss ensures them the 7-seed in the MWC Tournament in Las Vegas starting Thursday, meaning they get a first round match-up with #9 San Diego State.
Jay Watkins dressed for the game and was able to play one possession toward the end of the game. I went into detail in my post last night about how great J-Wat has been for the program, so I was glad that he was able to get into the game despite his lingering back injury. He was a guy who really got it and was in touch with the fan base. I was among the students he gave a high-five to after the game -- a really classy move after such a tough loss. He also took a sign that said "The MUSS loves Jay Watkins" with him and seemed genuinely touched by it. Really cool stuff.
In other MWC games on Saturday, #3 BYU (28-3, 14-2 MWC) and #9 San Diego State (29-2, 14-2 MWC) both won at home to earn a share of the conference title. The conference tournament field is all set now, with tie-breakers being taken into account. Here's how it sets up for the first round on Thursday, with seedings noted (BYU gets the winner of the play-in game Wednesday):
(1) BYU (28-3, 14-2 MWC) vs. (8) Wyoming (10-20, 3-13 MWC)/(9) TCU (10-21, 1-15 MWC), 1 p.m. MT
(4) Colorado State (19-11, 9-7 MWC) vs. (5) New Mexico (20-11, 8-8 MWC), 3:30 p.m. MT
(2) San Diego State (29-2, 14-2 MWC) vs. (7) Utah (13-17, 6-10 MWC), 7 p.m. MT
(3) UNLV (23-7, 11-5 MWC) vs. (6) Air Force (15-14, 6-10 MWC), 9:30 p.m. MT
The semis are at 7 and 9:30 p.m. MT on Friday and the title game is at 5 p.m. MT on Saturday. Should be an entertaining tournament. Hopefully my Runnin' Utes can at least show decently down there.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Runnin' Utes close out regular season vs. UNLV
Utah (13-16, 6-9 MWC) hosts UNLV (22-7, 10-5 MWC) Saturday afternoon at 2 p.m. MT at the Huntsman Center in Salt Lake City. The game will be televised on Versus. It will be Senior Day for the Runnin' Utes' only senior, forward Jay Watkins. J-Wat has been sidelined with a back injury and is unlikely to play in this contest. However, from my experience, he is a really cool guy and seems to be really good for team chemistry. Not to mention being a good rebounder and low-post presence on both ends of the floor. And on top of all that, he came over to the MUSS and gave me a fist bump before a game once this season. So his coolness is off the charts for that. Hopefully people will show up to support J-Wat and the Utes in the last home game of the season.
Utah lost a tough one Wednesday at Colorado State (19-10, 9-6 MWC) to snap the Utes' three-game winning streak. I was hopeful the Runnin' Utes could win that one and finish out the regular season at .500, but it was not to be, as CSU significantly outplayed them in the 2nd half. However, Utah needs to put that behind them and come out ready to go against the Runnin' Rebels. UNLV is a good team, but, if you ask me, not a great team. If Utah plays well, they should have a chance to win the game.
Utah needs to put it together now with focus and effort for a full 40 minutes, the season is running out. If the Utes win and New Mexico (19-11, 7-8 MWC) defeats Air Force (15-13, 6-9 MWC) in Albuquerque (likely) then Utah would get the six-seed in next week's Mountain West Conference Tournament. Any other combination from the two games and it's the seven-seed and a likely first-round match-up with ninth-ranked San Diego State. Of course, the six most likely means a first round match-up with UNLV on their home court. So, it won't be easy. But if Utah is to salvage what has been a rough season, it has to be done. I'll be on the scene tweeting from the UNLV game and back on the blog afterward for recap and analysis.
Utah lost a tough one Wednesday at Colorado State (19-10, 9-6 MWC) to snap the Utes' three-game winning streak. I was hopeful the Runnin' Utes could win that one and finish out the regular season at .500, but it was not to be, as CSU significantly outplayed them in the 2nd half. However, Utah needs to put that behind them and come out ready to go against the Runnin' Rebels. UNLV is a good team, but, if you ask me, not a great team. If Utah plays well, they should have a chance to win the game.
Utah needs to put it together now with focus and effort for a full 40 minutes, the season is running out. If the Utes win and New Mexico (19-11, 7-8 MWC) defeats Air Force (15-13, 6-9 MWC) in Albuquerque (likely) then Utah would get the six-seed in next week's Mountain West Conference Tournament. Any other combination from the two games and it's the seven-seed and a likely first-round match-up with ninth-ranked San Diego State. Of course, the six most likely means a first round match-up with UNLV on their home court. So, it won't be easy. But if Utah is to salvage what has been a rough season, it has to be done. I'll be on the scene tweeting from the UNLV game and back on the blog afterward for recap and analysis.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Runnin' Utes fall to CSU
Utah (13-16, 6-9 MWC) lost at Colorado State (19-10, 9-6 MWC) tonight by a score of 78-65. Utah played well in spurts but just did not have the consistency and mental toughness that are necessary to win on the road. Utah next hosts UNLV (22-7, 10-5 MWC) at the Huntsman Center. A loss there and there would be a good chance that the Utes would have to face #9 San Diego State in the first round of the MWC Tournament next week. A win and there is the possibility that Utah will have to face the Runnin' Rebels again on their home floor in the first round of the MWC Tournament. These scenarios are more likely if New Mexico holds on to their 20 point lead at #3 BYU tonight with under 9 minutes to go in the game. Again, a lot can happen and we'll have to see how things shake out. But it would be really nice to finish out this tough regular season with a home win.
I thought Utah could give CSU a better game than they did tonight; I'm disappointed in a lot of ways. I thought the Runnin' Utes would play with more poise and at least make it a close game. It was disappointing in a lot of ways. Utah just needs to try and right the ship in the last game and then look at how the match-ups shake out for the MWC Tournament and try to make the most of it. Utah needs to figure out how to play with poise all the time and play complete games -- they are running out of time to do this. The modest 3-game win streak was nice, but if they don't win again this season it will still be a disappointment. There is work still left to do.
I don't care for a lot about The Mtn., but I do have to admit I have become rather fond of announcer Dave Bolwinkel, who is currently calling the BYU-New Mexico game. Bolwinkel gives some really great insights and his passion for the game makes him fun to listen to. I can't believe the lead New Mexico has right now, we'll see if this holds up.
I thought Utah could give CSU a better game than they did tonight; I'm disappointed in a lot of ways. I thought the Runnin' Utes would play with more poise and at least make it a close game. It was disappointing in a lot of ways. Utah just needs to try and right the ship in the last game and then look at how the match-ups shake out for the MWC Tournament and try to make the most of it. Utah needs to figure out how to play with poise all the time and play complete games -- they are running out of time to do this. The modest 3-game win streak was nice, but if they don't win again this season it will still be a disappointment. There is work still left to do.
I don't care for a lot about The Mtn., but I do have to admit I have become rather fond of announcer Dave Bolwinkel, who is currently calling the BYU-New Mexico game. Bolwinkel gives some really great insights and his passion for the game makes him fun to listen to. I can't believe the lead New Mexico has right now, we'll see if this holds up.
Runnin' Utes visit CSU tonight
Utah (13-15, 6-8 MWC) visits Colorado State (18-10, 8-6 MWC) tonight at 7:15 p.m. MT on the CBS College Sports Network. The Runnin' Utes have won three in a row, but a win in this one would help to legitimize the recent turnaround. The game is also crucial in terms of conference positioning as the Utes need to try and avoid falling to the #7 position which would almost certainly mean a match-up with 9th-ranked San Diego State in the first round. I'll be tweeting updates during the game and be back on the blog afterward for recap and analysis. I'm pretty pumped up for this one and rather optimistic that Utah can play well. Go Utes!
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Utah edges TCU
Utah (13-15, 6-8 MWC) defeated TCU (10-19, 1-13 MWC) tonight in Salt Lake City by a score of 50-48. The Runnin' Utes sealed the victory when David Foster blocked a Hank Thorns shot with under five seconds to go and the Utes up just one point. Will Clyburn had made 1 of 2 free throws to give Utah the lead with under 10 seconds to go.
Utah was able to avoid a devastating loss and picked up its third straight win. It was a defensive struggle throughout and TCU did look to be playing hard despite being in the midst of a lengthy losing streak. Well, it's just a relief that the Utes were able to pull this one out. A win is a win. Utah still could realistically end up with as high as the fifth seed in the MWC Tournament if the Utes win out. We'll just have to see how everything shakes out. Hopefully the Utes can put it together and play well a week from Wednesday at Colorado State (18-8, 8-4 MWC) and at home against UNLV (20-7, 8-5 MWC) three days later. Neither game will be easy but I think Utah can play with both of those teams if they really bring it.
Foster also broke the all-time Utah blocks record tonight in the first half. It's really nice to have a guy who is such a defensive presence in the lineup. It's crazy, he's only a junior. Major props to Foster. And that block at the end of the game was obviously huge, too.
Utah was able to avoid a devastating loss and picked up its third straight win. It was a defensive struggle throughout and TCU did look to be playing hard despite being in the midst of a lengthy losing streak. Well, it's just a relief that the Utes were able to pull this one out. A win is a win. Utah still could realistically end up with as high as the fifth seed in the MWC Tournament if the Utes win out. We'll just have to see how everything shakes out. Hopefully the Utes can put it together and play well a week from Wednesday at Colorado State (18-8, 8-4 MWC) and at home against UNLV (20-7, 8-5 MWC) three days later. Neither game will be easy but I think Utah can play with both of those teams if they really bring it.
Foster also broke the all-time Utah blocks record tonight in the first half. It's really nice to have a guy who is such a defensive presence in the lineup. It's crazy, he's only a junior. Major props to Foster. And that block at the end of the game was obviously huge, too.
Hines banks in winner for Utah
Chris Hines banked in a 3-pointer at the buzzer to give Utah (12-15, 5-8 MWC) a 62-60 win at New Mexico (17-10, 5-7 MWC) on Saturday night. The win was the first for the Utes in The Pit in nearly a decade. Hines had been seeing his minutes decrease, but got the start in place of team leading scorer Will Clyburn and played well with the increased minutes, tying Josh Watkins with a team high 15 points. Utah played well most of the night and was able to chip away at a 13-point second half Lobo lead.
It was a very impressive win for Utah, teams don't just win in The Pit. In fact, #6 San Diego State (27-1, 12-1 MWC) is the only other team to do so this season. The win will hopefully propel the Runnin' Utes to a strong finish to the season. Utah hosts TCU (10-18, 1-12 MWC) Tuesday night at 8 p.m. MT on The Mtn. I'll be at the game and tweeting updates which you can follow at twitter.com/dpaysports.
It was a very impressive win for Utah, teams don't just win in The Pit. In fact, #6 San Diego State (27-1, 12-1 MWC) is the only other team to do so this season. The win will hopefully propel the Runnin' Utes to a strong finish to the season. Utah hosts TCU (10-18, 1-12 MWC) Tuesday night at 8 p.m. MT on The Mtn. I'll be at the game and tweeting updates which you can follow at twitter.com/dpaysports.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Utes visit New Mexico tonight
Utah (11-15, 4-8 MWC) defeated Wyoming (9-17, 2-10 MWC) by a score of 80-70 on Wednesday night at the Huntsman Center. The Runnin' Utes badly needed that win and were able to stop a 5 game losing streak. Chris Kupets led all scorers with 20 points off the bench and Will Clyburn and Josh Watkins each had 19 for the Runnin' Utes. Desmar Jackson led the Pokes with 17 points, but was pretty limited in the 2nd half before fouling out late in the game. Kupets has really come on in conference play and is really turning into a scorer; his emergence has come at about the same time as Chris Hines' minutes have sharply decreased. Freshman J.J. O'Brien continues to play well and had 10 points against the Cowboys. O'Brien gives me reason to believe the Utes could improve in the years to come. It wasn't a spectacular win, but it was much needed.
Utah visits New Mexico (17-9, 5-6 MWC) tonight at The Pit at 7:30 p.m. MT on The Mtn. The Pit is one of the toughest arenas to play in in the entire country and the Runnin' Utes certainly have their hands full in that regard. Utah beat the Lobos last month in Salt Lake City, but New Mexico has always been a much tougher team at home. Clyburn is questionable with a bruised heel he sustained in the Wyoming game. Hopefully he'll be able to go because it would be a rather difficult task trying to win without him.
The Utes really need this game as well if they want to get on the track to avoiding a 7 seed in the Mountain West Conference Tournament, which would almost certainly mean a match-up with either #6 San Diego State (27-1, 12-1 MWC) or #7 BYU (24-2, 10-1 MWC). A win tonight would push the Utes a half-game ahead of Air Force (13-12, 4-8 MWC) for sixth place in the MWC and draw them within a half-game of the Lobos for fifth. A guy has to try and think positively, right? It'll be a tough environment and I think the Lobos will win, but I think the Utes are going to give them a game and you never know what could happen. I'll be tweeting during the game and back on here afterward for recap and analysis.
Utah visits New Mexico (17-9, 5-6 MWC) tonight at The Pit at 7:30 p.m. MT on The Mtn. The Pit is one of the toughest arenas to play in in the entire country and the Runnin' Utes certainly have their hands full in that regard. Utah beat the Lobos last month in Salt Lake City, but New Mexico has always been a much tougher team at home. Clyburn is questionable with a bruised heel he sustained in the Wyoming game. Hopefully he'll be able to go because it would be a rather difficult task trying to win without him.
The Utes really need this game as well if they want to get on the track to avoiding a 7 seed in the Mountain West Conference Tournament, which would almost certainly mean a match-up with either #6 San Diego State (27-1, 12-1 MWC) or #7 BYU (24-2, 10-1 MWC). A win tonight would push the Utes a half-game ahead of Air Force (13-12, 4-8 MWC) for sixth place in the MWC and draw them within a half-game of the Lobos for fifth. A guy has to try and think positively, right? It'll be a tough environment and I think the Lobos will win, but I think the Utes are going to give them a game and you never know what could happen. I'll be tweeting during the game and back on here afterward for recap and analysis.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Utes-Pokes tonight
Utah (10-15, 3-8 MWC) hosts Wyoming (9-16, 2-9 MWC) tonight at the Huntsman Center in Salt Lake City. Tip-off is set for about 7:15 p.m. MT and the game will be televised on CBS College Sports. I'll be at the game and will be tweeting updates, so follow along. I'll also be on here after for recap and analysis. The Runnin' Utes already took down the Cowboys earlier this season in Laramie with a 17 point win. I think that Utah will win again in the second go-round tonight. I was encouraged by how hard they played on Saturday in the loss at rival #7 BYU (24-2, 10-1 MWC) and I'm optimistic that this level of play will carry over into tonight's game. It's pretty much a must-win for the Utes, or they could be staring at another 7-game losing streak as they are at New Mexico (17-8, 5-5 MWC) on Saturday night in The Pit, which is always a tough place to win. I'm off for now, but check me out on Twitter and I'll keep you posted on the game. Go Utes!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
