Grand Canyon Upsets No. 23 Utah State in Mountain West Clash

Antelopes hand Aggies first conference loss of the season

Mar. 3, 2026 at 2:31am

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Grand Canyon University pulled off a surprise 84-74 victory over No. 23 Utah State on Saturday, marking the Antelopes' first win over the Aggies as Mountain West Conference opponents. The Lopes were led by strong performances from Brian Moore Jr. and Makaih Williams, who combined for 40 points. The loss represents Utah State's first defeat in Mountain West play this season.

Why it matters

This upset victory for Grand Canyon over a highly ranked Utah State squad shakes up the Mountain West Conference standings, as the Aggies had been undefeated in conference play prior to this game. The win showcases Grand Canyon's ability to compete with the top teams in the league and could be a momentum-shifting result for the Antelopes as they look to make a push for the conference title.

The details

Grand Canyon shot an impressive 51% from the field, including a 16-point second half from Makaih Williams, to overcome the higher-ranked Aggies. Utah State struggled offensively, shooting just 36% overall and 25% from 3-point range. Grand Canyon head coach Bryce Drew praised his team's strong start and ability to withstand Utah State's pressure defense, while Aggies coach Jerrod Calhoun cited his team's defensive failures and Grand Canyon's size as factors in the loss.

  • The game took place on Saturday, February 25, 2026.

The players

Brian Moore Jr.

A key player for Grand Canyon University who scored 20 points in the upset victory over Utah State.

Makaih Williams

Also scored 20 points for Grand Canyon, including 16 in the second half to help secure the win over the Aggies.

Bryce Drew

The head coach of the Grand Canyon Antelopes, who praised his team's strong start and ability to handle Utah State's pressure defense.

Jerrod Calhoun

The head coach of the Utah State Aggies, who attributed the loss to his team's defensive failures and Grand Canyon's size advantage.

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What they’re saying

“We've had a really emotional couple days. I thought the start was just incredible...(Utah State) is such a good team. They're explosive. They press. The switching defense. Our guys made a lot of really good individual plays.”

— Bryce Drew, Head Coach, Grand Canyon Antelopes

“I thought our defense really failed us. They spent a lot of money on this roster, so their size is real. I give them a ton of credit. That's the biggest team we've faced all year.”

— Jerrod Calhoun, Head Coach, Utah State Aggies

What’s next

The loss represents Utah State's first defeat in Mountain West Conference play this season, and the Aggies will look to bounce back in their next game. Grand Canyon's upset victory could provide a boost as the Antelopes continue their push for the conference title.

The takeaway

This upset win for Grand Canyon over a highly ranked Utah State squad demonstrates the Antelopes' ability to compete with the top teams in the Mountain West Conference. It also raises questions about the Aggies' defensive vulnerabilities, which will need to be addressed as they look to regain their footing in conference play.