Cities across the U.S. are bracing for cold temperatures as a polar vortex arrives, bringing temperatures down to much below normal for mid-to-late January. Parts of Utah are on the “very western …
Cities across the U.S. are bracing for cold temperatures as a polar vortex arrives, bringing temperatures down to much below normal for mid-to-late January. Parts of Utah are on the “very western …
The Utah Utes women’s basketball team continues their inaugural Big 12 season with a road game against the No. 10 TCU Horned Frogs on January 17, tipping off at …
The Utah Utes women’s basketball team continues their inaugural Big 12 season with a road game against the No. 10 TCU Horned Frogs on January 17, tipping off at 5:30 p.m. MT. Currently ranked No. 23 in the AP Top 25 Poll, Utah (13-4, 4-2 Big 12) looks to bounce back after a 70-61 loss to Baylor on January 14.
Against Baylor, the Utes rallied in the third quarter to erase a nine-point deficit but faltered in the fourth. Gianna Kneepkens and Matyson Wilke led the team with 17 points each, while Reese Ross and Mayé Toure added seven rebounds apiece. Despite the loss, the team demonstrated resilience, a trait they’ll need to upset the red-hot Horned Frogs.
No. 23 Utah (13-4, 4-2 Big 12) vs. No. 10 TCU (18-1, 6-0 Big 12)
Friday, Jan. 17
Tip-off: 7:30 p.m. ET
Fort Worth, Texas at Schollmaier Arena
TV: ESPN +
The Utes are anchored by former All-American Gianna Kneepkens, who has returned to form after an injury-shortened 2023-24 season. Kneepkens is averaging 16.9 points per game while shooting an impressive 48.6% from the field and 43.8% from three-point range. Her free-throw accuracy (93.9%) ranks ninth nationally. She has hit three or more three-pointers in eight games this season, all Utah victories. Additionally, she recently became the seventh player in program history to reach 200 career three-pointers.
Other key contributors include Matyson Wilke, Jenna Johnson, Kennady McQueen, and Ines Vieira. Vieira is a standout distributor, ranking sixth in the Big 12 with 5.5 assists per game. Newcomers Mayé Touré and Chyra Evans have also made significant impacts, with Touré recently recording her first double-double against Baylor.
Under first-year head coach Gavin Petersen, the Utes have achieved several milestones. Petersen, in his 10th year with the program, earned a signature victory early, defeating then-No. 3 Notre Dame 78-67. This marked Utah’s highest-ranked road win in program history. Utah’s offense ranks among the top 30 nationally in seven major categories, including three-pointers made per game (9.8, No. 8) and field goal percentage (46.8%, No. 24).
The Horned Frogs are on a nine-game winning streak, led by Sedona Prince (18.7 PPG, 9.3 RPG) and Hailey Van Lith (18.3 PPG). TCU boasts a 39-13 record under second-year head coach Mark Campbell. Historically, Utah has a 10-9 edge in the series but has struggled in Fort Worth, holding a 2-6 record there.
Facing a top-10 opponent on the road is a daunting challenge, but Utah’s balanced attack, led by Kneepkens and its perimeter shooting prowess, could make the difference. A win over TCU would cement Utah as a serious contender in the Big 12.
The New Orleans Pelicans (10-32) welcome the Utah Jazz (10-29) to Smoothie King Center Friday. Tip is set for 8 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s NBA odds around the Jazz …
The New Orleans Pelicans (10-32) welcome the Utah Jazz (10-29) to Smoothie King Center Friday. Tip is set for 8 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s NBA odds around the Jazz …
Utah taxpayers deserve a system that fairly distributes the cost of county services across all property owners — not one that creates hidden winners and losers.
When some Wasatch County residents opened their 2022 property tax bills and saw that their taxes had nearly doubled, they knew something was wrong. What they didn’t know was that they were about to uncover a systemic failure in Utah’s property tax assessment system — one that creates unfair winners and losers among taxpayers.
In 2023, three Wasatch County taxpayers filed a lawsuit against the county assessor and State Tax Commission, exposing a troubling pattern of noncompliance with state law. Their investigation revealed a startling truth: While about 60% of property owners faced substantial tax increases, roughly 34% — including all commercial properties — actually received a 20% tax decrease. How did this happen in a state whose constitution requires fair and equitable taxation? Our lawsuit, which is just asking the court to order the defendants to follow the law, is still going through the painfully slow legal process. However, our more recent analysis shows that problems exist throughout the state in almost every county.
The answer lies in a critical failure to follow the law. Since 1993, the Utah Code has required county assessors to use computer-assisted mass appraisal systems to reassess ALL properties annually — not every five years, not when convenient. When properties aren’t uniformly reassessed, it creates a hidden shift in the tax burden. Since the majority of county revenue comes from property taxes, those whose properties are reassessed end up shouldering a disproportionate share of the county’s expenses, effectively subsidizing those whose properties remain undervalued.
We began our investigation in August 2022 and reported to the Wasatch County Council the problem we observed. In late 2022, the state auditor’s office received multiple complaints. They then began to assemble a database of the property tax data from all 29 Utah counties. Using their database, our investigation expanded beyond Wasatch County, and the results are troubling:
Only 24 of 29 counties even responded to the state auditor’s request for data. Of those 24, only 13 provided sufficient data for analysis.
Only three counties — Salt Lake, Davis and Washington — demonstrated good performance, achieving over 90% compliance with reassessment requirements.
The remaining 26 counties fell significantly short of legal requirements.
The State Tax Commission, tasked with oversight and enforcement, has failed in its fundamental duties. During a public hearing in August 2022, a Tax Commission representative admitted that the Wasatch County assessor “did not comply with the law but did better than last year” — as if partial compliance with state law were somehow acceptable. Wasatch County residents elected a new tax assessor in the 2024 elections!
This systematic failure demands immediate reform:
The Legislature must actively monitor the Tax Commission’s oversight performance.
The Tax Commission needs to integrate the state auditor’s database into its management process.
All counties must be required by law to submit annual property tax records.
Non-compliant officials must face real consequences including removal from office if necessary.
The current system isn’t just bureaucratic inefficiency — it’s a hidden tax shift that unfairly burdens some property owners while giving others an unearned break. When some property owners pay more than their fair share, it undermines the very principle of equitable taxation enshrined in our state constitution. This problem is particularly critical in years of high inflation, as has occurred in recent years.
The solution isn’t complicated. Salt Lake, Davis and Washington Counties have proven that over 90% compliance is achievable. What’s lacking isn’t capability but accountability. As taxpayers, we deserve a system that fairly distributes the cost of county services across all property owners — not one that creates hidden winners and losers based on which properties an assessor decides to reassess.
The path forward requires transparency, accountability and a commitment to following existing law. Our county services depend on property tax revenue, but that burden must be shared equitably among all property owners. It’s time for Utah to fix its broken property tax assessment system and ensure that everyone pays their fair share — no more, no less.
Utah’s position at No. 56 on CNBC’s Top 75 College Athletics Valuations list provides a fascinating look at the current state of the program …
Utah’s position at No. 56 on CNBC’s Top 75 College Athletics Valuations list provides a fascinating look at the current state of the program and its standing within the Big 12. With an estimated value of $468 million, Utah sits just behind Colorado ($470 million) and ahead of Kansas State ($444 million). Among the Big 12 schools, Utah ranks ninth, which is a testament to the strength of its athletics program despite being one of the newer additions to the conference.
Big 12 Context
The Big 12’s aggregate valuation of $6.7 billion positions it behind the SEC, Big Ten, and ACC, with an average value of $420 million per school. Utah’s valuation exceeds the Big 12 average, highlighting its competitiveness in the conference. However, the list underscores the gap between the Big 12 and powerhouse conferences like the SEC and Big Ten, which boast significantly higher average valuations due to lucrative media rights deals and massive fan bases. Notably, Texas, the highest-valued Big 12 school before its departure to the SEC, ranked second overall at $1.28 billion, indicating the significant loss for the conference.
Utah’s Placement on the list
Utah’s valuation reflects the program’s recent successes, particularly in football. The Utes have established themselves as a dominant force, winning consecutive conference championships in 2021 and 2022 and appearing in multiple Rose Bowls. These accomplishments have bolstered the program’s national reputation and fan engagement, both of which are critical components of the valuation methodology.
However, Utah’s proximity to Colorado on the list is particularly intriguing. Colorado, under the leadership of Deion Sanders, experienced a surge in national attention and revenue potential in 2023. This momentum has likely contributed to its slightly higher valuation despite a less consistent track record in recent years compared to Utah. The Utes’ strong alumni network and competitive NIL presence also contribute to their position, but there remains room for growth in areas like media rights revenue and booster contributions.
Texas Tech, Kansas, and TCU lead the Big 12, with valuations of $619 million, $553 million, and $542 million, respectively. These programs benefit from factors such as larger fan bases, historic success, and strong basketball programs in the cases of Kansas and Baylor. Utah’s lower valuation compared to these programs suggests that while its football program is competitive, it may lack the same level of historical prestige, diversified sports success, or booster funding.
Additionally, Utah’s placement ahead of Kansas State, West Virginia, and BYU demonstrates its relative strength among the Big 12’s middle tier. BYU, Utah’s historic rival, is valued at $357 million, reflecting the significant gap between the two programs despite their geographic and cultural similarities. This valuation highlights Utah’s superior performance in generating revenue and building national brand recognition.
Opportunities for Growth
Utah’s transition to the Big 12 in 2024 offers significant opportunities for revenue growth, particularly through expanded media rights and enhanced exposure to a broader audience. Continued investment in facilities, recruiting, and NIL initiatives could further elevate the program’s valuation. Success in basketball and other sports, alongside sustained football dominance, will be critical for Utah to climb higher on future lists.
In conclusion, Utah’s nearly half a billion dollar valuation solidifies its position as a strong contender in the Big 12 while emphasizing areas for growth. As the Utes adapt to their new conference home, they are well-positioned to increase their national profile and financial standing.
The Utah men’s basketball team is gearing up for a high-stakes matchup against in-state rival BYU this Saturday in the Jon M. Huntsman Center …
The Utah men’s basketball team is gearing up for a high-stakes matchup against in-state rival BYU this Saturday in the Jon M. Huntsman Center. This game marks the 265th meeting in this storied rivalry and the first as conference foes since the 2010-11 season. .
The rivalry, which dates back over a century, gains a new layer of intensity with both teams now competing in the Big 12 Conference. Historically, Utah narrowly leads the head-to-head record in conference matchups, holding a 118-117 edge. However, BYU leads the overall series 134-130. Utah’s largest margin of victory came in 1997 with an 85-49 win in Salt Lake City, while BYU’s biggest triumph was a 98-67 win in 1965 in Provo.
Saturday, January 18
Utah vs. BYU
Tip-off: 9 p.m. ET
TV: ESPN + (Roxy Bernstein and Tim Welsh)
Utah’s recent success has been driven by breakout performances from sophomore Keanu Dawes and the resurgence of Jake Wahlin. Dawes has emerged as a key contributor off the bench, scoring 16 points in consecutive games against Oklahoma State and TCU while shooting a combined 75% from the field. Wahlin, reintegrated into the starting lineup, has been a consistent force, averaging 8.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, and nearly two steals per game over seven starts. His recent performance against TCU, including 11 rebounds and 8 points, was instrumental in Utah’s victory.
The Utes’ 73-65 win at TCU was particularly significant, ending the Horned Frogs’ nine-game home winning streak and earning Utah its first road win against TCU since 2011. This victory demonstrates Utah’s ability to compete in hostile environments as they navigate the challenges of Big 12 play.
Looking ahead, Utah faces a quick turnaround with a road game at No. 10 Houston on January 20. The Fertitta Center presents a daunting challenge as Houston boasts a 32-game home winning streak. Following that, Utah will return home to host No. 25 Baylor on January 25, seeking redemption for a Big 12 opening loss to the Bears.
With the BYU rivalry renewed and key conference battles on the horizon, Utah is poised for an exciting stretch. The contributions of players like Dawes and Wahlin, combined with the passion of the Huntsman Center crowd, could be pivotal as the Runnin’ Utes aim to solidify their place in the Big 12.
To maintain affordability and reliability while meeting the demands of future technologies — such as artificial intelligence, electric vehicles and advanced manufacturing — we must at least triple our …
Affordable and reliable energy is the spark that keeps Utah shining — powering everything from the lights in our homes and the phones in our pockets to the unstoppable momentum of our booming economy. It’s essential to our quality of life and is the engine driving our state’s growth.
As we gear up for the 2025 legislative session, the Utah Senate majority is committed to pursuing bold energy strategies that ensure our state stays ahead of the curve in innovation and independence, building on the progress we’ve already made.
To maintain affordability and reliability while meeting the demands of future technologies — such as artificial intelligence, electric vehicles and advanced manufacturing — we must at least triple our current energy production. This is no small task, but Utah’s proactive approach ensures we are ready to rise to the challenge.
Utah is sitting on an energy goldmine — geothermal resources, coal, natural gas and even possibilities for next-generation micronuclear technology. With this diverse energy portfolio, we’re not just meeting our own needs; we’re powering the nation and are working to become a worldwide energy hub. This is more than keeping the lights on — it’s about securing an energy future that’s affordable, reliable and built to last for Utah families and businesses.
Take nuclear microreactors, for example. These aren’t your grandpa’s nuclear plants — they’re smaller, safer and ultra-flexible. Microreactors can provide steady power with a minimal environmental impact, putting Utah at the forefront of a game-changing new energy resource. By embracing this advanced technology, we’re not just ensuring reliable power; we’re strengthening America’s energy leadership while paving the way for a brighter, cleaner future.
Utah is also becoming a national leader in geothermal energy. Our state’s unique geological landscape offers one of the best geothermal potentials in the country. These projects provide a reliable, renewable energy source that operates around the clock, reducing our carbon footprint while meeting growing energy demands. By pursuing innovative geothermal solutions, Utah is poised to become a frontier state for renewable energy development, creating jobs and attracting new investments.
However, having abundant energy resources isn’t enough without the infrastructure to support them.
When you flip on the lights, charge your phone or turn up the heat, you probably don’t think about how that energy gets to you. It’s like magic, right? But it is actually thanks to a sprawling network of transmission lines working behind the scenes, crisscrossing the landscape to deliver power where it’s needed most. Transmission is the unsung hero of our modern energy story — a hero that needs attention if we want to keep the lights on and the power flowing for generations to come. Investing in transmission infrastructure also makes our grid more resilient. Modernized transmission can help prevent widespread outages, adapt to extreme weather and make the entire system smarter and more efficient.
As Utah grows and shifts toward a more diverse energy mix, the importance of transmission becomes even more critical. Think of transmission as the highway system for electricity. Without well-maintained, efficient highways, traffic grinds to a halt. Similarly, without updated and expanded transmission lines, energy can’t get from where it’s generated to where it’s needed.
And it’s not just about keeping the lights on — it’s about unlocking Utah’s incredible energy potential. With abundant resources like traditional power plants, geothermal energy and the potential for cutting-edge micronuclear reactors, our state is ready to lead the nation. But without the ability to move that energy efficiently, it’s like having a Ferrari in the garage with no way to take it for a spin. To truly rev up Utah’s energy future, we need the infrastructure to deliver power where it’s needed most.
But here’s the kicker: Building transmission isn’t easy. It requires collaboration across state lines and local communities and especially with our federal partners. It also needs smart permitting reforms to cut through red tape without cutting corners. If we work together, we can create a power grid that’s ready for whatever the future throws our way.
Powering Utah’s future with innovation and reliability
Investing in energy innovation isn’t just about powering today — it’s about preparing for tomorrow. By leading the way in next-generation energy solutions, Utah is not only securing its future but also setting an example for the nation. We are committed to creating an energy landscape that fosters economic growth, protects ratepayers and ensures that every Utah household and business can depend on affordable, reliable power around the clock.
Together, we will build a brighter, more energy-secure future for Utah and for generations to come. Stay tuned — the 2025 legislative session is going to be electric.
Winning on the road isn’t easy in the Mountain West Conference. On Tuesday, New Mexico (14-4, 6-1) suffered its first MWC men’s basketball loss of the season a …
Winning on the road isn’t easy in the Mountain West Conference.
On Tuesday, New Mexico (14-4, 6-1) suffered its first MWC men’s basketball loss of the season at San Jose State (9-10, 2-5). Latrell Davis’ late bucket lifted the Spartans to a 71-70 upset win.
Twenty-four hours later, UNLV (10-7, 4-2) knocked off No. 22 Utah State (16-2, 6-1) at Thomas & Mack Center, 65-62.
The top six teams in the MWC are separated by just 1.5 games entering this weekend’s action, a slate highlighted by Boise State’s (13-5, 5-2) Friday night trip to The Pit.
Here is the latest edition of our Mountain West power rankings.
All times listed are Mountain Standard Time
Last result: 65-62 loss at UNLV (Wednesday)
Previous ranking: 1
Season record: 16-2, 6-1
Analysis: After taking down Boise State in a thriller, Utah State suffered a run of sickness that limited practice time before the UNLV game. The Aggies have the rest of the week off to get healthy.
Up next: Jan. 22 vs. Nevada, 7 p.m., FS1
Last result: 71-70 loss at San Jose State (Tuesday)
Previous ranking: 4
Season record: 14-4, 6-1
Analysis: New Mexico’s thorough dismantling of San Diego State (62-48) was impressive enough to offset a road loss at San Jose State. The Lobos, who have dipped to No. 61 in the NET Rankings, can boost their NCAA Tournament resume Friday night.
Up next: Friday vs. Boise State, 9 p.m., FS1
Last result: 75-60 home victory over Colorado State (Tuesday)
Previous ranking: 2
Season record: 11-4, 4-2
Analysis: The Aztecs bounced back from a poor showing at The Pit with a blowout of Colorado State. San Diego State should be favored in its next nine games before heading to Utah State on Feb. 22.
Up next: Saturday vs. UNLV, 6 p.m., CBS Sports Network
Last result: 96-55 home victory over Wyoming (Tuesday)
Previous ranking: 3
Season record: 13-5, 5-2
Analysis: After struggling all season from beyond the arc, Boise State is a combined 27 of 52 (51.9 percent) on 3-pointers during its last two games. If the Broncos stay hot from long range, few teams can keep up with their offensive firepower.
Up next: Friday at New Mexico, 9 p.m., FS1
Last result: 75-60 loss at San Diego State (Tuesday)
Previous ranking: 5
Season record: 10-7, 4-2
Analysis: The Rams remain at No. 5 following an 84-62 drubbing of UNLV last weekend. San Diego State’s defense was too much for Colorado State Tuesday night, forcing 20 Rams turnovers.
Up next: Saturday at Wyoming, 2 p.m., Mountain West Network
Last result: 65-62 home victory over Utah State (Wednesday)
Previous ranking: 6
Season record: 10-7, 4-2
Analysis: UNLV scored the final seven points against Utah State to pick up its biggest win of the season. The Rebels have been a dominant home team (9-1 record) but are just 1-4 away from Thomas & Mack Center.
Up next: Saturday at San Diego State, 6 p.m., CBS Sports Network
Last result: 68-62 home victory over Air Force (Tuesday)
Previous ranking: 7
Season record: 10-7, 2-4
Analysis: The metrics continue to like the Wolf Pack, which checks in at No. 69 in the NET Rankings. But Nevada didn’t look like a postseason team in recent victories over Fresno State (77-66 in overtime) and Air Force.
Up next: Saturday vs. San Jose State, 4 p.m., Mountain West Network
Last result: 71-70 home victory over New Mexico (Tuesday)
Previous ranking: 9
Season record: 9-10, 2-5
Analysis: San Jose State remains the most underrated team in the Mountain West with single-digit losses to Boise State, New Mexico, UNLV and Utah State. The Spartans will be a live dog Saturday in Reno.
Up next: Saturday at Nevada, 4 p.m., Mountain West Network
Last result: 96-55 loss at Boise State (Tuesday)
Season record: 3-14, 0-6
Analysis: Did Air Force figure something out in Tuesday’s close loss to Nevada? We will find out Friday.
Up next: Friday at Fresno State, 8 p.m., Mountain West Network
Last result: 77-66 overtime home loss to Nevada (Jan. 11)
Previous ranking: 10
Season record: 4-13, 0-6
Analysis: Fresno State showed some fight last weekend by taking Nevada to overtime. The Bulldogs have a golden opportunity to pick up Mountain West victory No. 1 Friday night.
Up next: Friday vs. Air Force, 8 p.m., Mountain West Network
Last result: 68-62 loss at Nevada (Tuesday)
Previous ranking: 11
Season record: 3-14, 0-6
Analysis: Did Air Force figure something out in Tuesday’s close loss to Nevada? We will find out Friday.
Up next: Friday at Fresno State, 8 p.m., Mountain West Network
Dedan Thomas Jr. made a layup and a 12-foot fadeaway jumper to cap a closing seven-point run by UNLV, which defeated No. 22 Utah State 65-62 on Wednesday night. Utah State’s Mason Falslev missed a …
LAS VEGAS (AP) — Dedan Thomas Jr. made a layup and a 12-foot fadeaway jumper to cap a closing seven-point run by UNLV, which defeated No. 22 Utah State 65-62 on Wednesday night.
Utah State’s Mason Falslev missed a 3-pointer in the final seconds, snapping the Aggies’ six-game winning streak.
Jalen Hill led the Rebels (10-7, 4-2 Mountain West) with 15 points, Julian Rishwain finished with 13 and Jailen Bedford had 10.
Thomas added eight points, about half of his season average. But his four points at the end were the most important as UNLV closed with a 12-2 surge.
Tucker Anderson led Utah State (16-2, 6-1) with 19 points, and Ian Martinez added 15.
Though the Aggies had been on a roll, they also won a series of close calls. All six victories during their streak were decided by single digits.
Utah State appeared poised to pull off another such win, going on a 15-3 run to go up 60-53 with 5:25 left. But the Rebels refused to go away, setting the stage for the final winning spurt.
The Aggies were hoping to come close to matching their best Mountain West start. They won their first nine conference games four years ago, but will have to settle for their second-best beginning.
Takeaways
Utah State: The Aggies were held 21 points below the 83.2-point scoring average they took into the game.
UNLV: The Rebels dominated inside, outscoring Utah State 36-20 in the paint.
Key moment
Rishwain made a 3-pointer with 2:23 left to set up the game-ending run, turning a four-point deficit into a one-point game.
Key stat
The Rebels struggled from the 3-point line in the first half, making 2 of 16. They were 4 of 9 over the final 20 minutes.
Up next
Utah State hosts Nevada on Wednesday, and UNLV plays at San Diego State on Saturday.
