A few observations from the game:
– For comparison purposes, Lipscomb lost to BYU by 25 Tuesday and we beat them by 49.
– Utah was without Peyton McFarland and Kemery Martin, two players who started for them last year. Both were at the game in street clothes, no crutches or casts so hopefully they will be back soon.
– This team can really shoot. Lipscomb was going under screens and helping on drivers and our shooters made them pay for it. 19 of 42 from three despite the new 3-point line this year.
– We have a lot more depth than last year. All the newcomers look like they can play and contribute.
– The Utes were really hitting the offensive boards hard last night, getting 22 offensive rebounds on 37 missed shots (59%!)
– Defense and turnovers were better than last year, at least against this competition. I think at least 4 of the 13 turnovers were charges or travels, which while still frustrating at least doesn’t lead to an immediate basket the other way.
Overall, a nice start. Competition level steps up a notch on Saturday against Xavier. We lost to Xavier the last time we played them, in 2019.