Utah Basketball Preview 2021

Nov 4

Our Utah basketball preview 2021 - 22 observes that the Utes were last at the Big Dance in 2016. In 2018, they were runners-up in the NIT. Since that NIT appearance, this team has not been to either tournament. For new head coach Craig Smith (0-0 Utah/0 years, 153-79 Overall/7 years) and his team expect the same outcome as last year when the Utah Utes went 12-13 overall and 8-11 in the Pac-12. That was good enough for eighth place in the conference. The major difference between last season and this season, which is a rebuilding year, is the Utes will win fewer games and finish lower in the Pac-12.

Utes Frontcourt

Junior center Branden Carlson, a seven-foot two way player and adroit two- and three-point shooter, will be a prime contributor this season. Carlson has the potential to be a major performer and looks ready to have a breakthrough season. Transfer Dusan Mahorcic (Illinois State) arrives and will likely start. The 6’10” Mahorcic can pound the boards, rebound, and play D. Our Utah basketball preview 2021 - 22 notes that after that, the frontcourt picture is unclear. There are choices, but which ones will pan out is anyone’s guess.

Utah Basketball Preview – Backcourt

Sophomore Rollie Worster, who played for Smith at Utah State, arrives at Utah to start at point guard. He can get the job done. Another transfer, David Jenkins Jr. (UNLV) averaged 14.8 PPG with the Rebels. He’ll be a major offensive weapon for the Utes. Senior transfer Marco Anthony, also from Utah State, is a fine perimeter defender and solid veteran presence. Transfer Both Gach (Minnesota), who spent his first two seasons with the Utes, returns for his senior year. The versatile Gach can play three positions.