The latest Northern Lights forecast means the aurora borealis may be seen in the continental U.S. tonight after space weather experts predicted a geomagnetic storm.
The Northern Lights could visible Monday night after a geomagnetic storm was predicted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
It follows a 10-hour display of auroras on Saturday, March 8 and into Sunday, March 9, according to SpaceWeather.com, which reports that displays were seen from New York to Utah.
A minor G1 geomagnetic storm had been forecast in advance, but what transpired was a G2 geomagnetic storm — a reminder how unpredictable displays of aurora can be. However, with a bright moon — waxing towards full for Thursday’s total lunar eclipse — faint aurora will likely be hard to see.
Aurora Forecast Tonight: Geomagnetic Storm
The Northern Lights could be visible Monday night after the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicted a geomagnetic storm.
It follows a 10-hour display of auroras on Saturday, March 8 and into Sunday, March 9, according to SpaceWeather.com, which reports that displays were seen from New York to Utah.
A minor G1 geomagnetic storm had been forecast in advance, but what transpired was a G2 geomagnetic storm — a reminder of how unpredictable displays of aurora can be. However, with a bright moon — waxing towards full for Thursday’s total lunar eclipse — faint aurora will likely be hard to see.
Aurora Forecast Tonight: Where
NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center forecasts that a G1 geomagnetic storm — caused by a burst of charged particles from the sun — will make aurora visible in clear skies. However, in practice, it could be either a stronger G2.
According to NOAA, G1 storms can be seen from Washington, northern Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan and Maine, G2 storms from New York and central Idaho, G3 storms from Illinois and Oregon and G4 storms as far south as Alabama and northern California.
A G5 storm — as experienced on May 10-11 and Oct. 10-11 in 2025 — can see aurora down to Florida, Arizona, and worldwide.
Aurora Forecast Tonight: When
NOAA’s forecast predicts that the highest levels of geomagnetic activity will occur about 21:00-00:00 UTC (5:00-8:00 p.m. EDT) on Monday, March 10, 2025.
Aurora results from interactions between the solar wind and Earth’s magnetic field. Most displays are down to geomagnetic storms caused by an intense solar wind powered by coronal mass ejections. These clouds of charged particles leaving the sun — usually in the wake of a solar flare — travel to Earth over a few days and interact with Earth’s atmosphere and magnetic field.
Aurora Forecast Tonight: Intensity
The potential displays of aurora borealis tonight have a predicted Kp index of 4.67, which provides a rough guide to their intensity. According to NOAA, that means “the aurora will move further from the poles, it will become brighter, and there will be more auroral activity (motion and formations). If you are in the right place, these aurora can be quite pleasing to look at.”
Aurora Forecast Tonight: Latest Updates
Knowing when a geomagnetic storm will begin — and how intense it will be — is all about knowing when a particularly turbulent solar wind reaches Earth and begins interacting with the atmosphere. That’s not easy, but scientists do have a warning system.
Although there is always uncertainty about a prediction of displays of the aurora, NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center gets data from sensors on its DSCOVR and ACE satellites, which orbit Earth about a million miles away. They measure the speed and magnetic intensity of the solar wind.
Depending on the speed of the CME, the satellites give about 15-30 minutes warning of a major space weather event — and the resulting displays of aurora. That’s why aurora hunters need to keep an eye on NOAA’s 30-minute forecast, where the latest updates are posted.
Aurora Forecast Tonight: Observing Advice
Many displays of aurora — particularly when seen from cities where light pollution dampens their brightness — are, in practice, “photographic aurora,” which show up much better in a photo than in reality. So keep your smartphone handy — and engage “night mode” or similar — which will give the grey streaks you see in the sky a greenish or reddish color.
Those in regions with low levels of light pollution and a clear sky will get the best view, particularly those with a northern horizon that’s free from artificial light.
Although difficult to predict, auroras are common at present because solar activity is at a 23-year high, with the current solar cycle— which lasts about 11 years — much stronger than the last.
In October, NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s Solar Cycle 25 Prediction Panel confirmed that the sun had reached its “solar maximum” phase, the peak of its 11-year solar cycle. Frequent displays of auroras are expected through 2025 and into 2026.
Follow my page for the latest Northern Lights forecasts.
Tatum (knee tendinopathy) and Al Horford (left big toe sprain) are listed as questionable for Monday’s game. With a matchup against Oklahoma City on Wednesday, Boston may choose to rest one or more of …
Jayson Tatum did not sit in the second half of Saturday’s Lakers-Celtics showdown. He played 45 minutes, 26 seconds, a career-high for a regular-season game that did not go into overtime.
So don’t be surprised if you don’t see the Boston star on the court on Monday as the reeling Jazz come to town.
Tatum (knee tendinopathy) and Al Horford (left big toe sprain) are listed as questionable for Monday’s game. With a matchup against Oklahoma City on Wednesday, Boston may choose to rest one or more of its key players.
“Probably not going to play every game rest of the season, but kind of building up your stamina going into the playoffs, knowing that certain nights you might play 45, 44 minutes,” Tatum said. “So just kind of getting your body ready for that.”
Utah has lost five games in a row and is at the bottom of the Western Conference standings.
Walker Kessler (rest) didn’t play against the 76ers, after he collected 18 points, 25 rebounds and eight blocked shots in Friday’s 118-109 loss to Toronto. Utah’s Jaden Springer (back), Jordan Clarkson (plantar fasciitis), John Collins (back/injury management), Lauri Markkanen (back/injury management) and Collin Sexton (ankle) also were unavailable to play Sunday.
“Tonight was a tricky night being really short-handed,” Utah coach Will Hardy, a former Celtics assistant, said. “There are still signs of the young players improving. It’s hard in different moments when their roles grow rapidly and they’re taking on more responsibility than they’re used to.
“I’ll give the team credit, they didn’t quit. I’m always proud of the team’s willingness to continue to dig in, even in tough moments.”
When: Monday, 7:30 p.m.
Where: TD Garden, Boston
TV, radio: NBCSB, WBZ-FM 98.5
Line: Boston -17.5. O/U: 229.0.
JAZZ
Season record: 15-49. vs. spread: 34-30. Over/under: 39-24, 1 push
Last 10 games: 2-8. vs. spread: 6-4. Over/under: 7-3
CELTICS
Season record: 46-18. vs. spread: 30-34. Over/under: 29-34, 1 push
Last 10 games: 8-2. vs. spread: 7-3. Over/under: 4-6
TEAM STATISTICS
Points per game: Utah 112.6, Boston 117.0
Points allowed per game: Utah 119.8, Boston 108.2
Field goal percentage: Utah .458, Boston .462
Opponent field goal percentage: Utah .475, Boston .453
3-point percentage: Utah .355, Boston .371
Opponent 3-point percentage: Utah .358, Boston .348
Stat of the day: Sunday night’s 126-122 setback against the 76ers was Utah’s 12th consecutive road loss.
Notes: It appears unlikely that Kristaps Porzingis will be available to play in the sixth game of this seven-game homestand. Porzingis has appeared in 32 games this season, averaging 18.9 points and 6.8 rebounds per contest. Al Horford replaced him in Boston’s starting lineup Saturday and had 14 points, nine rebounds, four assists and three steals in 37 minutes. … Boston’s victory over Los Angeles extended the team’s winning streak to four games and improved the Celtics’ home record to 22-11. Boston is 4-1 on its current homestand. … Utah’s Kyle Filipowski matched his career high by scoring 25 points in the loss to Philadelphia. He also had seven rebounds, three assists and three steals. “I’m proud of the work he’s put in,” Hardy said. “I think Flip’s development of his shot is definitely one of the highlights of this year for us.” … Monday’s matchup will be the first of two regular-season meetings between Utah and Boston. The teams also will meet in Utah on March 21.
Information from Field Level Media was used in this report.
The Celtics shouldn’t play too sleepily given their momentum heading into the playoffs, though it may be hard to create motivation in such a context.
The 46-18 Boston Celtics will play host to the 15-48 Utah Jazz at their home arena of TD Garden this Monday (March 10) night. The Celtics are hoping to push their current win streak to a total of 5 straight victories after a 111-101 win over the Los Angeles Lakers this past Saturday (March 8) evening.
The Jazz appear to be seeking some better lottery odds, judging by the lengthy list of players who might not be available to take the court against Boston when the Jazz come to town. Even so, the Celtics should not play this one too sleepily given the momentum they have heading into the postseason — though it may be pretty tough to manufacture motivation in such a context.
Let’s take a look at player health for both teams, likely starters, and how to watch or stream the game.
Mar 12, 2024; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) dunks the ball against Utah Jazz forward Brice Sensabaugh (8) during the first quarter at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports
Player injuries
For the Celtics, Kristaps Porzingis (illness) is doubtful, and Al Horford (toe) and Jayson Tatum (knee) are questionable.
For the Jazz, no report was available at the time of writing with a game the night before, but for that contest, Utah listed Jordan Clarkson (foot), John Collins (back), Taylor Hendricks (fibula), Walker Kessler (rest), Lauri Markannen (back), Colin Sexton (ankle), Jaden Springer (back), and Oscar Tshiebwe (illness) as out.
Mar 12, 2024; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) shoots a free throw against the Utah Jazz during the first quarter at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports
Probable starting lineups
Boston
Derrick White
Jrue Holiday
Jaylen Brown
Jayson Tatum
Luke Kornet
Jazz
Isaiah Collier
Keyonte George
Brice Sensabaugh
KJ Martin
Kyle Filipkowski
Mar 12, 2024; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Utah Jazz forward Brice Sensabaugh (8) shoots over Boston Celtics forward Sam Hauser (30) during the second quarter at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports
Analyzing Monday’s Toronto Maple Leafs at Utah Hockey Club odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.
The Toronto Maple Leafs (38-22-3) wrap up a 3-game road trip Monday against the Utah Hockey Club (28-25-10) at Delta Center in Salt Lake City. Puck drop is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s NHL odds around the Maple Leafs vs. Utah Hockey Club odds and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.
Season series: Maple Leafs lead 1-0
Toronto won the first meeting 3-2 at Scotiabank Arena on Nov. 24 as G Joseph Woll turned aside 24 of 26 shots. RW Mitch Marner scored a pair of goals to provide ample support and RW William Nylander notched the game-winning goal. Utah’s C Logan Cooley had a power-play goal in the loss.
The Maple Leafs have dropped both games of the trip so far, falling 5-2 at the Vegas Golden Knights on Wednesday, while losing 7-4 at the Colorado Avalanche Saturday. The Leafs are still 5-2-1 in the past 8 games, and the Over is 6-2 in the 8-game stretch.
Utah was edged 4-3 in overtime on Friday by the Chicago Blackhawks, but it is still a respectable 4-1-1 in the past 6 games, and 7-3-1 in the previous 11 outings. The Over is 2-1-1 in the past 4 tries, while going 5-3-1 across the previous 9 outings.
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Moneyline (ML): Maple Leafs -120 (bet $120 to win $100) | Utah Hockey Club +100 (bet $100 to win $100)
Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Maple Leafs -1.5 (+200) | Utah Hockey Club +1.5 (-250)
Over/Under (O/U): 6 (O: -110 | U: -110)
Maple Leafs at Utah Hockey projected goalies
Joseph Woll (21-12-0, 2.78 GAA, .905 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Karel Vejmelka (17-16-5, 2.48 GAA, .910 SV%, 1 SO)
Woll was bounced around last time out by the Golden Knights, allowing 3 goals on just 7 shots through 14:31 of the first period Wednesday in a loss. He has allowed 8 goals on 41 shots in 2 starts in March, with both appearances coming on the road.
Vejmelka, fresh off a contract extension signed last week, has managed a 1-1-1 record, 2.98 GAA and .904 SV% in 3 starts in March. He lost to the New Jersey Devils in his most recent home start March 1, but Vejmelka has won 4 of his past 5 at Delta Center.
The MAPLE LEAFS (-120) are worth a look as minor road favorites, even though Toronto has dropped the first 2 games on the trip.
Despite a pair of losses to Colorado and Vegas, the Leafs are still 8-3-1 across the past 12 outings.
Utah Hockey Club (+100) is 4-2-2 in the past 8 games at Delta Center, so this won’t be easy by any stretch. It might have been worth a roll of the dice to back Utah here, but an OT loss in Chicago makes it a risky play. Back the better team.
OVER 6 (-110) is the lean, but go with a half-unit play at best.
The Over is 2-1-1 in the past 4 games for the Utah Hockey Club, while going 5-3-1 across the previous 8 outings. Be careful, though, as the Under is 7-1 in the past 8 at home.
For the Leafs, the Over is 3-1 in the past 4 games, and 6-2 across the previous 8 outings. The Leafs have coughed up 20 goals in the past 4 contests.
Utah, as the No. 11 seed, will face 14th seed UCF in Tuesday’s first round of the Big 12 tournament at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City. The game tips at 7:30 p.m. MST and will be streamed on ESPN+.
Ezra Ausar and Miro Little almost said the answer in unison.
“We owe them one,” Ausar said first when the pair was asked about Utah’s Big 12 tournament first-round opponent, UCF.
“Yeah, we owe them one, so get the win. Simple,” Little quickly quipped.
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That moment of decisiveness from the two Runnin’ Utes is a microcosm of the togetherness this current group of players and coaches is trying to finish the season with.
Since Craig Smith was fired as head coach almost two weeks ago — one day after Utah’s loss at UCF in the two schools’ only other matchup this year — those who make up the current program have rallied around each other.
Thus far, it’s resulted in a 1-3 record, with all three losses coming against NCAA tournament caliber teams. The latest was an 85-74 setback against No. 23 BYU Saturday at the Marriott Center, and after that loss, the conversation for Utah revolved around several topics, including the Utes’ next opponent and how this team can rally around each other heading into the postseason.
Utah, as the No. 11 seed, will face 14th seed UCF in Tuesday’s first round of the Big 12 tournament at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City. The game tips at 7:30 p.m. MST and will be streamed on ESPN+.
The winner of that game will take on No. 6 seed Kansas in the second round, and beyond that, No. 3 seed Arizona awaits the winner of Tuesday’s second-round matchup.
It’s a daunting potential road in the Big 12 tournament bracket, though with the overall strength of the league, almost any path is going to have multiple difficult contests on the way to next Saturday’s Big 12 tournament championship game.
When Utah and UCF met two weeks ago, the Knights got the better of the Utes in Orlando. The matchup came down to the final minute, but UCF prevailed when Darius Johnson hit the game-winner to snap a 72-72 tie with 2.8 seconds to play.
Utah then turned the ball over on the inbound for its 19th turnover of the game. Turnover issues have been a common theme for the Utes this year — it happened again Saturday against BYU — and in that first contest against UCF, the Knights held a 20-8 advantage in points off turnovers.
Less than 24 hours after that loss to UCF, Smith was no longer the head coach of the Utes, and a transition to the future became a reality.
That’s left the current staff and players in a bit of limbo, knowing that changes are coming.
Ausar helped put the situation in perspective.
“I think mentally, (the goal is) staying focused and learning how to move on to the next because you can’t get time back. You know, that’s just life in general,” he said.
“You’ve just got to accept it, because it ain’t nothing we can do about it as teammates. Just accept the moment and try to build from it, stay encouraged and keep encouraging each other off the court, on the court, I just think moving on from things and continue to motivate each other.
“We’ve still got a chance to win the conference tournament, so I think that’s the main focus right now.”
Utes on the air
Utah (16-15) vs. UCF (16-15)
Big 12 tournament, first round
T-Mobile Center, Kansas City
Tuesday, 7:30 p.m. MST
Stream: ESPN+
Radio: 700 AM
So, who might emerge victorious in Tuesday’s first-round game?
ESPN Analytics and KenPom both give Utah a slight edge in the neutral-site rematch. Since that first matchup, Utah has lost to Arizona, West Virginia and BYU, with a 26-point home over Arizona State.
UCF has gone 2-2, with home victories over Kansas State and Oklahoma State, combined with losses at TCU and West Virginia.
Utah interim coach Josh Eilert missed that first matchup with UCF, as he stayed at home with a 104 degree fever.
“It’s pretty fresh in our mind. They got us on the last-second shot, their late last possession,” Eilert said. “I think our guys will be amped and ready to go. I think we had a pretty good game plan.”
That game plan will be tested again when Utah and UCF meet in the fourth and final first-round matchup of the Big 12 tournament’s first day.
Eilert, like he’s shown time and again in his short time as Utah’s interim coach, showed confidence his team will rally to face the opportunity.
“They know what they’re playing for,” he said. “They’re playing for each other, and I keep on preaching that. There’s a lot of seniors in the locker room that the coaching change really has no effect on them, so they’ve been good about it and leaning on each other.”
Goaltender Connor Ingram will be unavailable to Utah Hockey Club after enterting the player assistance program.
Connor Ingram is taking a step away from Utah Hockey Club.
The National Hockey League Players’ Association announced Sunday that the goaltender would enter the player assistance program and be unavailable to Utah for an indefinite period of time as he receives care.
Ingram sent out a message shortly after his departure from the team was announced.
“For those of you that don’t know, earlier this season I lost my mother to breast cancer. After trying to make a return to playing, I have come to realize that I am not myself,” Ingram wrote in a post on X. “At this point in my life I need to put my health first, and take the time I need away to come back at 100%.”
Ingram was away for around two months between the end of November and mid-January as he dealt with the family matters.
(Trent Nelson | The Salt Lake Tribune)
Utah Hockey Club goaltender Connor Ingram (39) as Utah Hockey Club hosts the Los Angeles Kings, NHL pre-season hockey in Salt Lake City on Monday, Sept. 23, 2024.
“For Ingy, we’re supporting him. All of our heart is with him,” head coach André Tourigny said. “We hope the best for him and we just hope everything will go well for him.”
This is Ingram’s second time in the player assistance program. The 27-year-old leaned on the system in 2021 when he was part of the Nashville Predators’ organization. The program offers confidential help to players struggling with mental health, substance abuse or other personal issues with the goal of getting them back to the point where they can rejoin their NHL teams.
Ingram later opened up about his obsessive compulsive disorder and how it has impacted his mental health. He earned the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy — awarded annually to the NHL player who best exemplifies perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey — in May 2024 following an impressive season with the Arizona Coyotes. In Utah, Ingram posted a 3.27 goals against average and .882 save percentage through 22 games and it was hard to find consistency.
(Bethany Baker | The Salt Lake Tribune) Utah Hockey Club goaltender Connor Ingram (39) guards the goal during the second period of the game between the Utah Hockey Club and the Pittsburgh Penguins at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025.
Ingram is serving as an example of the importance of putting one’s mental health ahead of stats and career.
“I think mental health is a thing, it’s important and it’s been underestimated for years,” Tourigny said. “Now I think it’s good to come to light and people take care of themselves. It’s important for everybody to try to help people in that regard as well.”
Jaxson Stauber was recalled from the AHL’s Tucson Roadrunners on Sunday in Ingram’s absence. The 25-year-old netminder will back up Karel Vejmelka, who has assumed the starting role for Utah Hockey Club after signing a five-year contract extension on Thursday.
Stauber was with the Club earlier this season and had a 2.23 goals against average and .925 save percentage through four games. The undrafted goaltender put up the first-ever shutout in Utah history with a 29-save performance against the Vegas Golden Knights on Nov. 30.
Utah Hockey Club goaltender Jaxson Stauber (33) stops a shot by Vegas Golden Knights right wing Keegan Kolesar (55) during the second period of an NHL hockey game Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/Sam Morris)
“Just come in and continue to try to help the team in any way I can and make the most of any opportunities,” said Stauber, who practiced with the Club on Sunday. “It makes you hungry when you go back down and you want to perform well. I felt like I had a good first game back and then had a rough stretch for a few games there. The last little bit I’ve been playing better.”
In 17 games in Tucson this season, Stauber has a 3.11 GAA and .898 SV%. The Roadrunners are also in the thick of a playoff race in the AHL, so Stauber’s mindset remains the same with upcoming must-win matchups.
“It’s exciting. Good to get back out there with really good players,” Stauber said. “The shots come at you a little bit quicker. A little bit more engaged and that heightened level of awareness when the pucks are coming off a little bit harder.”
(Trent Nelson | The Salt Lake Tribune) Utah Hockey Club goaltender Karel Vejmelka (70) as Utah Hockey Club hosts the Minnesota Wild, NHL hockey in Salt Lake City on Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025.
It is yet to be seen if Stauber will get a chance to start as Vejmelka has been solid with a 2.48 GAA and .910 SV% through 40 games. But, with 10 games in the next 19 days, some rest may be needed.
Stauber is here now to fill in but Ingram is confident he will eventually make a return after taking care of himself.
“Though many view the program as a resource for substance abuse, I want to recognize all that they do,” Ingram wrote in his message. “I am once again privileged to have access to their network of world class health professionals to hopefully avoid long-term negative effects of putting your health second. With the program’s assistance I look forward to getting the medical help I need and returning to a happy and healthy life.”
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The Runnin’ Utes would have to pull off a miracle run in the Big 12 Championship in Kansas City to make the NCAA Tournament. No. 14-seeded UCF is up next for Utah in the conference tournament. The …
Alex Jensen introduced himself to the Runnin’ Utes over Zoom.
Utah’s new basketball coach spoke to Craig Smith’s former staff, now led by interim head coach Josh Eilert.
He also spoke to Utah’s players.
“I talked to him first thing yesterday morning, and I had a great talk with him,” Eilert said on Friday. “We had a great conversation and he’s leaning on me to lead the program.”
Head coaches aren’t usually fired until the end of a season. So it’s somewhat rare for a replacement, like Jensen, to be in place while his team is still playing.
“He knows that right now is a sensitive situation, being named head coach when the regular season isn’t even complete,” Eilert said. “He just wants the best for everybody in the program as we finish the season. He doesn’t have any intention to interfere with what we have going on right now and I think that’s the perfect way to handle it.”
The Runnin’ Utes, meanwhile, are handling the end of their disappointing season the only way they can.
“I think mentally, we’re trying to stay focused and learning how to move on to the next because you can’t get time back,” junior forward Ezra Ausar said. “Try to, you know, build from it, stay encouraged, and keep encouraging each other off the court and on the court.”
Utah ended the 2024-25 regular season with an 85-74 loss to in-state rival BYU on Saturday night in Provo. The Utes have now lost four of their five games since Smith was fired.
But Eilert said he’s been impressed with his team’s fight and focus.
Utah battled until the end on Saturday, cutting the Cougars’ 19-point lead and down to an 11-point margin at the final buzzer. It also held BYU’s offense scoreless in the final 3:18 of the contest.
(Bethany Baker | The Salt Lake Tribune) Brigham Young Cougars guard Trevin Knell (21) goes for a lay up as Utah Utes guard Hunter Erickson (0) defends during the game between the Brigham Young Cougars and the Utah Utes in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025.
“They know what they’re playing for,” Eilert said. “They’re playing for each other, and I keep on preaching that. There are a lot of seniors in the locker room and the coaching change really has no effect on them, so they’ve been good about it and leaning on each other. Yeah, there’s a lot of distractions going on the last couple weeks, but they’ve handled it really well. They’ve handled it professionally.”
So, what’s left for Utah to play for?
The Runnin’ Utes would have to pull off a miracle run in the Big 12 Championship in Kansas City to make the NCAA Tournament.
No. 14-seeded UCF is up next for Utah in the conference tournament. The Utes lost to the Knights in Orlando less than two weeks ago.
“It’s pretty fresh in our mind,” Eilert said. “They got us on the last-second shot there. … I think our guys will be amped and ready to go. I think we had a pretty good game plan last time. So, I’m looking forward to the matchup in Kansas City.”
A win would put them on a crash course with Kansas, which they beat earlier this season. A loss would eliminate the Runnin’ Utes completely.
“I just think moving on from things [will help us] continue to motivate each other,” Ausar said. “We still got a chance to win conference tournament. I think that’s the main focus right now.
“Put time behind us.”
Maybe the Runnin’ Utes can pull off a magical last-minute March Madness berth.
Outdoor recreation is a cornerstone of Utah’s economy and culture. It’s concerning to see deep cuts to the agencies that help keep these landscapes open and accessible.
Growing up in Utah, I naively thought I would move away after college to find “somewhere better” to live. I quickly realized a better “somewhere” doesn’t exist. Whether it’s backcountry skiing in the Wasatch, mountain biking around Moab, rock climbing in the Swell or floating down a desert river, outdoor recreation isn’t just a weekend pastime — it’s a cornerstone of our economy and culture.
That’s why it’s concerning to see deep cuts to the agencies that help keep these landscapes open and accessible. Staffing shortages at the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service and National Park Service are already making it harder to maintain trails, manage visitors and keep recreation areas running smoothly. And with more cuts on the horizon, the ripple effects will hit not just the people who work on our public lands, but the businesses and communities that rely on them, too.
Think about it: When a trailhead isn’t maintained, when parking lots are not plowed, when permits take longer to process, when search-and-rescue teams are stretched too thin — that doesn’t just impact hikers and skiers. It affects the guides and outfitters, the small-town coffee shops and gear stores, the hotels and restaurants that depend on outdoor recreation dollars. Tourism brings billions into Utah every year, and much of that comes from people traveling here to experience these incredible landscapes. Beyond the tourism dollars generated, I can’t count the number of people I’ve met who have accepted jobs in Utah due to our outdoor rec opportunities. But they will seek that “somewhere better” to visit or move to if those places start to feel neglected, overcrowded or unsafe — or are no longer accessible.
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Utah has built a reputation as an outdoor paradise, and we’ve spent years promoting that to the world. But that brand only holds up if the places we’re advertising are well cared for. We need to make sure the people who steward our public lands have the resources to do their jobs.
For decades, groups like the Wasatch Backcountry Alliance have worked alongside land managers to keep the places we love in good shape and accessible to the public. Volunteers put in thousands of hours, but they can’t replace trained staff. It takes real investment to keep Utah’s trails, canyons and backcountry safe and accessible.
Although it is difficult to quantify the economic benefits of our outdoor recreation when compared to development and resource extraction, our state leaders know the value of public lands — after all, they’ve built entire marketing campaigns around them. It’s time to back that up by making sure we’re not cutting the very resources that keep those lands running. Whether you’re a skier, hiker, business owner or just someone who cares about Utah’s future, now is the time to speak up. Let’s make sure we protect the places that make Utah great.
At the 1:37 mark of the first half in Saturday night’s BYU-Utah matchup at the Marriott Center, the Runnin’ Utes found themselves leading the No. 23 Cougars 29-27 thanks to Gabe Madsen’s first …
Utah Utes guard Gabe Madsen (55) passes the ball during a basketball game against the Brigham Young Cougars at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
At the 1:37 mark of the first half in Saturday night’s BYU-Utah matchup at the Marriott Center, the Runnin’ Utes found themselves leading the No. 23 Cougars 29-27 thanks to Gabe Madsen’s first 3-pointer of the contest.
To that point, Utah had gutted through compounding turnover issues and poor shooting to stick with BYU and even lead for the majority of the first half.
The Utes also rebounded the ball well in the opening 20 minutes and took advantage of BYU’s poor first-half 3-point shooting. Utah outrebounded BYU 25-18 in the first half and the Cougars missed their first 13 3-point attempts.
Over the final minute of the first half, though, Utah watched BYU go on a 7-1 run to turn that two-point deficit into a four-point lead, punctuated by a 30-foot Dallin Hall 3-pointer at the buzzer.
That quick turn of momentum to end the first half ended up being a harbinger of things to come, as BYU ran away with an 85-74 victory over the Utes to end Utah’s two-game win streak in the series.
“A couple of things I think we mismanaged, especially at the end of the half, (were) not taking the last shot and then they really did a good job of taking advantage of us, really putting their head down and driving there late, which we had a hard time staying in front,” Utah interim coach Josh Eilert said.
Utah Utes guard Mike Sharavjamts (25) and Brigham Young Cougars guard Egor Demin (3) fight for possession of the ball during a basketball game at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
The Utah Utes team warms up before a basketball game against the Brigham Young Cougars at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars fans cheer after the Brigham Young Cougars score during a basketball game against the Utah Utes at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars fans cheer during a basketball game against the Utah Utes at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars fans cheer during a basketball game against the Utah Utes at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars fans cheer during a basketball game against the Utah Utes at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Utah Utes forward Ezra Ausar (2) takes a free-throw shot during a basketball game against the Brigham Young Cougars at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars fans cheer during a basketball game against the Utah Utes at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars fans cheer and Brigham Young Cougars guard Trevin Knell (21) celebrates after after the Brigham Young Cougars score during a basketball game against the Utah Utes at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars fans cheer after the Brigham Young Cougars score during a basketball game against the Utah Utes at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars guard Dallin Hall (30) and Brigham Young Cougars guard Trey Stewart (1) celebrate after the Brigham Young Cougars score during a basketball game against the Utah Utes at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars guard Dallin Hall (30) and Utah Utes guard Hunter Erickson (0) reach for the ball as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Utah Utes guard Hunter Erickson (0) goes up high and catches the ball out of the air and slams it down as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Utah Utes forward Ezra Ausar (2) battles Brigham Young Cougars guard Trey Stewart (1) as he brings the ball up court as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Utah Utes interim head coach Josh Eilert, yells at a referee to call a foul as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Utah Utes guard Hunter Erickson (0) celebrates after a monster dunk as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Utah Utes center Joul Karram (5) and Utah Utes guard Brady Smith (6) react after watching Utah Utes guard Hunter Erickson (0) hammer down a dunk as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Utah Utes forward Zach Keller (32) takes a swipe at the ball as Brigham Young Cougars forward Mihailo Boskovic (5) crosses as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Utah Utes guard Hunter Erickson (0) looks to put up a shot as Brigham Young Cougars guard Dallin Hall (30) rolls on the floor as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars guard Trevin Knell (21) and Brigham Young Cougars guard Trey Stewart (1) celebrate as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars center Fousseyni Traore (45) battles Utah Utes forward Jake Wahlin (10) as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars guard Trey Stewart (1) defends Utah Utes forward Ezra Ausar (2) at the hoop as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars guard Egor Demin (3) and Brigham Young Cougars guard Trevin Knell (21) celebrate as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars cheerleaders and Cosmo perform as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Utah Utes players watch from he bench as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
A Brigham Young Cougars cheerleader yells as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Utah Utes center Lawson Lovering (34) spins on Brigham Young Cougars center Keba Keita (13) as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
A Brigham Young Cougars fan does his best to dance during a timeout as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Utah Utes guard Gabe Madsen (55) looks for help as Brigham Young Cougars guard Trey Stewart (1) and Brigham Young Cougars center Fousseyni Traore (45) rush at him as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Utah Utes guard Miro Little (1) shoots over Brigham Young Cougars guard Dawson Baker (25) as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Utah Utes guard Miro Little (1) drives to the hoop on Brigham Young Cougars guard Trey Stewart (1) as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars center Keba Keita (13) complains to a referee as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars center Keba Keita (13) at a timeout as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Utah Utes guard Mike Sharavjamts (25) shoots over Brigham Young Cougars guard Dawson Baker (25) as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars guard Dawson Baker (25) fouls Utah Utes forward Keanu Dawes (8) as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Utah Utes interim head coach Josh Eilert, watches from the sideline as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Utah Utes center Lawson Lovering (34) is fouled by Brigham Young Cougars forward Mihailo Boskovic (5) as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars forward Mihailo Boskovic (5) tries to get the ball as Utah Utes forward Keanu Dawes (8) grabs it as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars guard Trevin Knell (21) celebrates after hitting a tree point shot as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Utah Utes players watch from he bench as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars forward Mawot Mag (0) celebrates after a tree point shot as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars center Fousseyni Traore (45) watches as Brigham Young Cougars guard Dawson Baker (25) maintains possession of the ball while being guarded during a basketball game against the Utah Utes at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Utah Utes center Lawson Lovering (34) and Brigham Young Cougars center Keba Keita (13) fight for possession of the ball during a basketball game at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars players huddle before playing against the Utah Utes during a basketball game at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars guard Dallin Hall (30) reacts after falling during a basketball game against the Utah Utes at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Utah Utes forward Ezra Ausar (2) searches for a teammate to pass the ball while guarded by Brigham Young Cougars center Keba Keita (13) during a basketball game at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars fans cheer during a basketball game against the Utah Utes at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars forward Richie Saunders (15) guards Utah Utes guard Miro Little (1) during a basketball game at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars players cheer for their teammates during a basketball game against the Utah Utes at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars forward Richie Saunders (15) drives the ball toward the basket during a basketball game against the Utah Utes at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars forward Richie Saunders (15) dunks the ball during a basketball game against the Utah Utes at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars guard Trevin Knell (21) celebrates with players and coaches during a basketball game against the Utah Utes at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Utah Utes guard Gabe Madsen (55) passes the ball during a basketball game against the Brigham Young Cougars at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars players celebrate after Brigham Young Cougars won 85-74 against the Utah Utes during a basketball game at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars cheerleaders cheer during a basketball game against the Utah Utes at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
The Brigham Young Cougars mascot energizes the crowd during a basketball game against the Utah Utes at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars players celebrate after Brigham Young Cougars won 85-74 against the Utah Utes during a basketball game at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars players celebrate after Brigham Young Cougars won 85-74 against the Utah Utes during a basketball game at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars players celebrate after Brigham Young Cougars won 85-74 against the Utah Utes during a basketball game at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars fans embrace the team after the Brigham Young Cougars won 85-74 against the Utah Utes during a basketball game at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Utah Utes forward Ezra Ausar (2) goes up for a basket against the Brigham Young Cougars during a basketball game at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Utah Utes and Brigham Young Cougars players embrace after Brigham Young Cougars won 85-74 against the Utah Utes during a basketball game at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars center Keba Keita (13) jumps up to dunk the ball during a basketball game against the Utah Utes at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Utah Utes forward Keanu Dawes (8) goes up for a basket during a basketball game against the Brigham Young Cougars at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
The Brigham Young Cougars mascot does a flip during a basketball game against the Utah Utes at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars fans embrace the team after the Brigham Young Cougars won 85-74 against the Utah Utes during a basketball game at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars guard Trevin Knell (21) drives on Utah Utes center Lawson Lovering (34) as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Utah Utes forward Ezra Ausar (2) is guarded by Brigham Young Cougars forward Mihailo Boskovic (5) during a basketball game at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars center Keba Keita (13) puts his hand on Utah Utes forward Ezra Ausar’s (2) face as he dunks the ball during a basketball game at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Utah Utes forward Jake Wahlin (10) and Utah Utes center Lawson Lovering (34) go for the rebound against the Brigham Young Cougars during a basketball game at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Utah Utes guard Gabe Madsen (55) passes the ball during a basketball game against the Brigham Young Cougars at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News
Utah Utes guard Gabe Madsen (55) dives after the ball as Brigham Young Cougars guard Dallin Hall (30) snatches it away as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars forward Mawot Mag (0) puts up a shot over Utah Utes forward Ezra Ausar (2) as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars guard Trevin Knell (21) drives past Utah Utes forward Jake Wahlin (10) as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars forward Mihailo Boskovic (5) is called for a travel as Utah Utes forward Keanu Dawes (8) defends on the play as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars forward Mawot Mag (0) tries to defend Utah Utes guard Gabe Madsen (55) as he puts up a shot as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars forward Mawot Mag (0) and Utah Utes forward Ezra Ausar (2) battle for the ball as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Utah Utes forward Jake Wahlin (10) loses the ball as he falls between Brigham Young Cougars forward Mihailo Boskovic (5) and Brigham Young Cougars guard Dallin Hall (30) as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Utah Utes forward Ezra Ausar (2) screams after dunking the ball as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars head coach Kevin Young calls out to his players as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars head coach Kevin Young calls out to his players as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars head coach Kevin Young fives Brigham Young Cougars forward Richie Saunders (15) as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars head coach Kevin Young gestures as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars fans cheer during the game as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Brigham Young Cougars guard Dawson Baker (25) brings the ball up court as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
After sinking a three point shot to end the first half, Brigham Young Cougars guard Dallin Hall (30) celebrates with. Teammate Brigham Young Cougars forward Mihailo Boskovic (5) as BYU and Utah play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday February 8, 2025. BYU won 85-74. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
A gutty effort from Utah over the opening 20 minutes didn’t translate over to the second half, as the Utes’ defense fell apart.
“Some of those transition buckets where they walked to the rim, it definitely was their emphasis coming out out halftime and they executed that. Credit to them,” said Eilert, whose team lost the fast break points battle 14-8.
BYU built off that late first-half swing and began to play more like itself in the second half, as the Cougars went up 54-41 with 13 minutes remaining, sparked in part by a pair of Dawson Baker 3-pointers.
Utah had a quick 8-0 answer, including two Madsen 3-pointers, that made the score 54-49. Then the Utes, in what’s been an issue this season, went on an extended scoring drought at an ill-timed point of the game.
The Cougars pushed the lead back into double-digits over the next five minutes as part of a 12-0 run, while Utah was mired in a shooting slump that saw the visitors miss nine straight field goals.
By the time the slump ended, BYU led 66-49 with 6:46 to play and the outcome had all but been decided in Provo.
“I think our main focus is being consistent, and coming out of halftime, it hurt us coming out and not getting those (stops), I think they go up eight points (early) or something like that,” Utah forward Ezra Ausar said. “I think we just lost consistency coming out in the second half.”
It leaves Utah entering the postseason on a two-game losing streak after falling by two to West Virginia in its home finale Tuesday. While the Utes (16-15, 8-12 Big 12), who have been playing under the cloud of a coaching change the past two weeks, have looked competitive in stretches this week against two NCAA tournament caliber teams, their flaws caught up with them again.
Against BYU, part of that was a propensity to turn the ball over. Utah ended up with 17 turnovers to 10 for BYU. The Cougars turned that into a 21-9 advantage in points off turnovers.
“They scored a lot off our turnovers,” said Utah guard Miro Little. “Our 17 turnovers was what cost that the game today and we’ve just got to take care of better care of the ball as a team.”
Eilert echoed those sentiments and said he challenged his guys at halftime to clean it up. In the first half, Utah turned the ball over 10 times and it led to nine points.
While the Utes turned it over fewer times in the second half with seven, those giveaways led to 12 Cougar points.
“I think that there’s no secret, our Achilles is the turnover situation, and they turned up the pressure,” Eilert said. “They turned up the pressure, especially on our point guard play.
“I really got after our guys in the locker room there at halftime that I’m searching for a point guard that can really run the show and get us into what we need to, get a good shot each and every time down the floor. It’s been something that just keeps on rearing its ugly head, the turnover situation, and it certainly did tonight.”
Both teams struggled shooting in the first half. BYU was 37.3% from the floor, while Utah was 33.3%. The Cougars, though, turned that around in the second half, shooting 61.5% after the half and 47.5% for the game.
Utah, meanwhile, shot 35.6% in the second half and 34.7% for the game.
The Utes had a few noteworthy individual efforts in the matchup. Little scored a career-high 21 points, including 18 in the second half, and made four 3-pointers in the final six minutes when the game was decided.
Ausar finished with a double-double at 12 points and 12 rebounds, while Jake Wahlin had 10 points and six rebounds against the team he once signed with before flipping to the Utes.
The Cougars, though, showed they were the better team, as they overcame their first-half inconsistency and followed it up with a second-half effort that included five made 3-pointers.
Utah did make more 3s — at 12 to eight — and held a 53-34 rebounding edge, but it didn’t matter against a hot Cougars squad.
What’s next for the Utes, who showed some fight but couldn’t overcome their flaws? The loss slots Utah into the No. 11 seed for next week’s Big 12 tournament.
The Utes will face No. 14 seed UCF in Tuesday’s first round at 7:30 p.m. MST at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City.
“It was a good defensive effort to start to the half on our part and thought we did a really good job on the glass and handling the environment,” Eilert said, “but you know, just sometimes the floodgates start to open up on you and (they) certainly did.”
The BYU basketball team is rolling into the postseason. Dawson Baker scored 15 points and Richie Saunders added 14 to lead No. 23 BYU to an 85-74 victory over rival Utah on Saturday night. Keba Keita …
PROVO, Utah (ABC4 Sports) – The BYU basketball team is rolling into the postseason.
Dawson Baker scored 15 points and Richie Saunders added 14 to lead No. 23 BYU to an 85-74 victory over rival Utah on Saturday night.
Keba Keita had 12 points and Egor Demin scored 10 for the Cougars (23-8, 14-6 Big 12). Both players had seven rebounds. Demin finished with six assists.
Miro Little led Utah with 21 points. Ezra Ausar added 12 points and 12 rebounds. The Utes (16-15, 8-12) have dropped four of their last five games.
For a third consecutive game, BYU weathered a sluggish start on offense in the first half. The Cougars started 0 of 13 from 3-point range before Baker and Mihailo Boskovic ended the drought with back-to-back outside baskets.
Utah took advantage of BYU’s prolonged shooting struggles. Ausar scored four baskets over a five-minute stretch to put the Utes up 26-21.
The Cougars rallied and took a 34-30 halftime lead on a buzzer-beating 3-pointer from Dallin Hall.
Utah trailed the entire second half, but BYU didn’t pull away until Trevin Knell and Hall fueled a 12-0 run with back-to-back baskets that helped put the Cougars up 66-49 with 6:46 left. The Utes missed nine straight shots during a five-minute scoring drought.
Utah committed 17 turnovers, leading to 21 points for BYU, and shot just 35% from the field.
Baker had his highest-scoring game since totaling 16 points at Providence in December.
Baskets from Keita and Hall in the final 35 seconds of the first half put BYU ahead for good.
Utah faces UCF in the first round of the Big 12 Tournament on Tuesday in what could be the Utes final game before new head coach Alex Jensen takes over.
BYU has a double bye into Thursday’s quarterfinal round in Kansas City.
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