Utah basketball's 5 biggest games left in the 2025-26 regular season

Alex Jensen's first season as Utah's head coach has not gone as planned, but the Runnin' Utes have a chance to make some noise down the stretch.

Feb. 5, 2026 at 7:47pm

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Utah basketball has struggled in Alex Jensen's first season as head coach, going just 9-13 overall and 1-8 in Big 12 play. However, the Runnin' Utes have nine games remaining in the regular season, including matchups against top teams like Kansas, Houston, and Iowa State. This article highlights the five biggest games left on Utah's schedule as they try to turn their season around and make a push for the Big 12 tournament.

Why it matters

Utah basketball has high expectations as Jensen takes over his alma mater, and the team's performance in these final regular season games will go a long way in determining whether they can salvage their season and make a run in the Big 12 tournament. These games against top conference opponents will test the Runnin' Utes and show how far they have to go to become a contender in the Big 12.

The details

Utah's remaining schedule includes road games at Kansas, Baylor, and Colorado, as well as home games against Houston and Iowa State. The Runnin' Utes will need to find a way to slow down potential top NBA draft pick Darryn Peterson and the high-powered Kansas offense, as well as contend with tough defensive teams like Houston and Iowa State. Beating any of these top Big 12 teams would be a major boost for Utah's confidence and tournament hopes.

  • Utah plays at Kansas on Saturday, February 11, 2026.
  • Utah hosts Houston on February 10, 2026.
  • Utah hosts Iowa State on February 24, 2026.
  • Utah hosts Colorado for Senior Night on March 3, 2026.
  • Utah plays at Baylor on March 8, 2026 to conclude the regular season.

The players

Alex Jensen

The former Runnin' Utes standout is in his first season as the head coach of the Utah basketball program.

Darryn Peterson

The Kansas freshman is considered a potential top overall pick in the upcoming NBA draft, averaging 21.1 points per game.

Kelvin Sampson

The head coach of the Houston Cougars, who are the defending national runners-up.

Joshua Jefferson

The All-America candidate for Iowa State is leading the Cyclones with 17.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game.

James Okonkwo

The fifth-year player is one of two seniors Utah will honor on Senior Night against Colorado.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.