Following a disappointing loss in Stillwater, Oklahoma, the Runnin’ Utes bounced back with a dominant 72-59 victory over the Colorado Buffaloes. Gabe Madsen led the charge with 17 points as Utah controlled the game from start to finish. Despite the promising win, the Utes struggled to carry that momentum into their next game, falling 72-61 to the West Virginia Mountaineers. The team struggled against a tough Mountaineer defense and allowed 17 points to WVU Forward Amani Hansberry. The split this past week leaves the Utes with a 13-10 overall record and a 5-7 mark in conference play.
The Runnin’ Utes kicked off their week with a solid performance against the Colorado Buffaloes, ultimately securing a 72-59 win. The game began as a bit of a feeling-out process, with both teams struggling to find their offensive footing. However, Utah found a spark and used a decisive run to establish a double-digit lead. Colorado showed flashes of resilience, chipping away at the deficit, but a timely three-pointer from Gabe Madsen just before halftime gave the Utes a comfortable cushion heading into the break.
The second half saw the Buffaloes mount a charge, tightening the score and putting pressure on the Utes. Colorado’s efforts, however, were ultimately thwarted by timely plays from Utah, including clutch shooting from Gabe Madsen, who finished with 17 points and four three-pointers. Lawson Lovering also contributed significantly with 12 points, and both Ezra Ausar and Mason Madsen reached double figures with 10 points each. The Utes managed to regain control down the stretch, sealing the victory and handing Colorado yet another conference loss as they remain winless in Big 12 play.
Despite a promising win on Wednesday, the Runnin’ Utes hit a snag on the road against the West Virginia Mountaineers, dropping a 72-61 decision that exposed some lingering offensive challenges. A late surge from the Utes pulled them within striking distance, but Utah couldn’t sustain the momentum, as West Virginia closed the game with a decisive 8-0 run. The Utes struggled to find consistency on offense throughout the game, shooting just over 40% from the field and under 30% from beyond the arc. Keanu Dawes provided a spark with 14 points, but the team couldn’t find enough offensive firepower to overcome the Mountaineers.
Tourney Watch
This loss casts a shadow over Utah’s NCAA tournament aspirations, leaving them searching for a signature Quad one win. Now at 13-10 overall and 5-7 in conference play, the Utes face a shrinking window of opportunity to bolster their resume.
The West Virginia game highlighted the need for improved offensive execution, especially in critical late-game situations, as they navigate the remainder of the season. The Utes only face two more ranked teams for the rest of the season (No. 16 Kansas and No. 20 Arizona), which are now looking like must-wins if the Utes want any chance of playing in March.
The Runnin’ Utes next game is Feb. 11 at Cincinnati; tip-off is 5:00 pm MST.
m.valva@dailyutahchronicle.com
