Utah’s men’s basketball team delivered a performance worth remembering on Tuesday night, and it wasn’t just the lopsided score of 94-48 against Mississippi Valley State that caught everyone’s attention. The biggest story—literally—stood 7 feet tall: the return of Lawson Lovering and Zach Keller. These two towering players made their season debuts, giving Utah fans a glimpse of what their lineup could look like at full strength.
A Fresh Look for the Utes
Utah head coach Craig Smith couldn’t contain his excitement about the team’s overall rhythm and defensive connection. “I loved our last two days of prep coming into the game — we had a great look to us before the game, and I thought we played like it,” Smith said. The team’s offensive flow and defensive tenacity were evident from the opening whistle. But it was the presence of Lovering and Keller that gave the game an entirely new dimension. “It was awesome to see Lawson and Zach out there. We looked totally different,” Smith added.
For Utah fans, this wasn’t just another holiday tournament game. The Utes usually travel for such events, but this year, they’re hosting the Mountain to Sea Showcase at home. This two-game series not only spared fans from braving winter travel but also provided an early preview of how the roster’s new pieces could elevate the team’s game.
Lawson Lovering’s Impactful Return
Lovering, a senior, wasted no time making his presence felt. On the game’s opening possession, he rolled off a screen and threw down a thunderous dunk, assisted by Gabe Madsen. It was a statement play—one that set the tone for his entire night. Later in the first half, after missing a short left-handed shot, Lovering grabbed his own rebound and slammed it home, showing his knack for capitalizing on second-chance opportunities.
By halftime, Lovering had already racked up 12 points, seven rebounds (four on the offensive end), and two assists in just 12 minutes. One of his most memorable plays came when he converted a circus shot while being fouled, then calmly banked in the free throw. “It feels good to make some plays right out of the gate and kind of get yourself going and get yourself in the flow, especially coming back after not playing for a month,” Lovering said. Though he admitted he’s still working toward full health, his performance proved he’s ready to contribute significantly.
Zach Keller’s Quiet but Promising Debut
Meanwhile, Keller’s debut was a more understated affair. The transfer from Wake Forest logged 16 minutes, scoring three points on a late-game and-one opportunity and grabbing three rebounds. While he showed initial nerves, Keller’s confidence grew as the game progressed. Coach Smith highlighted Keller’s versatility and rugged style of play, describing him as a “totally team guy” who knows how to make an impact without needing the spotlight.
The Gabe Madsen Show
While Lovering and Keller brought an exciting twist, the night belonged to Gabe Madsen. The fifth-year senior had the Huntsman Center buzzing with his electric shooting. Pouring in 27 points—just four shy of his career high—Madsen drained seven three-pointers and shot an impressive 10 of 13 from the field.
“Gabe is playing really, really well right now,” Smith said, praising Madsen’s leadership and ability to energize the team. His stellar performance wasn’t just about scoring; it was about inspiring confidence in his teammates.
Emerging Stars and Team Chemistry
Sophomore guard Miro Little, a transfer from Baylor, continued his upward trajectory with a career-high 16 points. He found his groove early, knocking down back-to-back threes in the first half. Little also contributed six rebounds, five assists, and a steal, proving he’s becoming a vital cog in Utah’s system.
Hunter Erickson matched Little’s five assists and added a highlight-reel dunk in the second half, sending the crowd into a frenzy. “It’s just fun playing with a team where everyone’s trusting each other,” Erickson said. His praise extended to Lovering, whose ability to facilitate movement on offense added a new layer to the team’s dynamics.
Mason Madsen and Ezra Ausar chipped in nine points each, as the Utes showcased their depth. The team’s unselfish play was evident in their 29 assists on 33 made baskets, a stat that underscores their ability to spread the ball and create opportunities for everyone.
Dominant Defense and Team Growth
Utah’s defense was equally impressive. Entering the game as the nation’s leader in field goal percentage defense (33.8%), the Utes held the Delta Devils to just 34% shooting. They also put an exclamation point on their dominance with an 18-0 run late in the second half, effectively sealing the game.
What’s Next for the Utes?
With this win, Utah improved to 5-1 and gained momentum heading into tougher matchups. After Thanksgiving, the Utes will face Eastern Washington at home on Saturday, followed by a highly anticipated showdown against unbeaten Saint Mary’s on December 7.
Coach Smith is optimistic about the team’s trajectory. “It’s exciting to see, and we’re just going to keep tinkering and keep hopefully climbing the ladder and getting better,” he said.
For Utah fans, Tuesday night’s game wasn’t just about the score—it was about possibilities. With Lovering and Keller finding their rhythm, Madsen lighting up the scoreboard, and a supporting cast that’s gelling beautifully, the Runnin’ Utes look poised for an exciting season ahead.
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