Runnin’ Utes Aim to Overcome Challenges at Acrisure Series Against Tougher Rivals
The Runnin’ Utes are gearing up for a challenging series in the Acrisure Series at Palm Desert, California. This showcase is particularly significant as Utah’s basketball team comes off a disappointing home loss to Cal Poly, where they fell 92-85. The upcoming matches will test the resilience and skill of this year’s roster, which includes 12 new players.
Upcoming Matches for the Runnin’ Utes
On Tuesday, November 21, at 10 p.m. MST, Utah will take on Grand Canyon. This match will be aired on CBS Sports Network. Following this, the Utes will face either Iowa or Ole Miss on Wednesday.
- Match 1: Utah vs. Grand Canyon
- Date: November 21, 10 p.m. MST
- Venue: Acrisure Arena, Palm Desert, California
- Broadcast: CBS Sports Network, Radio on 700 AM
Review of Utah’s Season So Far
Utah enters the Acrisure Series with a record of 5-1. Their early victories came against teams such as San Jose State and Weber State. However, they faced difficulties against Cal Poly, where defensive shortcomings were evident. Coach Alex Jensen emphasized the importance of individual defensive responsibilities and sustaining focus throughout the game.
Challenges Faced Against Cal Poly
Against Cal Poly, the Utes allowed the Mustangs to shoot 50% from the field, including 56% from beyond the arc. Junior forward Keanu Dawes noted the importance of working on their effort and energy levels following this defeat, stating that losses can often serve as valuable lessons for the team.
Insights on Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon, now a member of the Mountain West Conference, poses a significant challenge for the Utes. With a record of 3-2, they were previously successful in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC), qualifying for the NCAA Tournament four times in the past five seasons. Grand Canyon’s defending and rebounding skills will be tested as they face off against Utah.
- Key Players:
- Jaden Henley: 16.8 points, 4.8 rebounds per game
- Makaih Williams: 13.2 points per game, strong 3-point shooter
- Nana Owusu-Anane: 12.0 points, 11.0 rebounds per game
Preview of Iowa and Ole Miss
The other teams in the Acrisure Series, Iowa and Ole Miss, both enter the tournament undefeated at 5-0. Iowa defeated Xavier 81-62 in their top victory thus far. The Utes faced Iowa in both of the last two seasons, with both teams winning once.
- Iowa Key Player: Bennett Stirtz, averaging 17.6 points per game
- Ole Miss Key Player: Ilias Kamardine, averaging 15.8 points per game
If the Utes secure a win against Grand Canyon, they will face the winner of the Iowa-Ole Miss game on November 22 at 7:30 p.m. MST. A loss would lead them to meet the loser of that matchup later that night at 10 p.m. MST.
The Runnin’ Utes are focused on overcoming recent challenges as they look to build momentum during the Acrisure Series.
