Utah's late collapse highlights challenges for new coach Alex Jensen in Big 12

Utes blow 5-point lead in final 2 minutes, fall 69-65 at Cincinnati

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Utah Utes suffered a tough loss at Cincinnati, blowing a 5-point lead in the final two minutes to fall 69-65 to the Bearcats. The defeat highlighted the competitive challenges new head coach Alex Jensen faces in his first season leading the Utes in the Big 12 Conference. Despite a strong rebounding effort and four players scoring in double figures, Utah couldn't hold on down the stretch, missing key free throws and giving up a crucial fast-break dunk.

Why it matters

The loss drops Utah to 1-11 in Big 12 play, underscoring the steep learning curve for Jensen and his squad as they adjust to the rigors of the new conference. With a roster that has seen significant turnover, the Utes have struggled to find consistency, and this latest defeat showcases the fine line between winning and losing that Jensen's team is navigating in his inaugural Big 12 season.

The details

Utah led 65-60 with 1:52 remaining, but Cincinnati scored the game's final 9 points to rally for the 69-65 victory. The Bearcats scored on a layup, then took the lead for good on a dunk in transition after the Utes failed to get back on defense. Utah missed the front end of two 1-and-1 free throw opportunities in the final minute to seal the defeat.

  • Utah led 65-60 with 1:52 remaining in the game.
  • Cincinnati scored the game's final 9 points in the last 1:52 to win 69-65.

The players

Alex Jensen

The first-year head coach of the Utah Utes, tasked with rebuilding the program in the highly competitive Big 12 Conference.

Keanu Dawes

A Utah forward who had 16 points and 14 rebounds in the loss, continuing his recent strong play for the Utes.

Baba Miller

A 6'11" center for Cincinnati who had 14 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists in the win over Utah.

Mousthapa Thiam

A 7'2" center for Cincinnati who recorded a double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds against the Utes.

Don McHenry

A Utah player who led the team with 18 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists in the losing effort.

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What they’re saying

“We missed the front of the 1-on-1 and then … transition D, we had a couple guys fall down. Seydou stopped and stabbed at the ball, and then KD, as hard as 2-on-1 (is), we talk about fouling them and not letting him have it.”

— Alex Jensen, Utah Head Coach (ESPN 700 AM)

“I think we fought hard. I think down the stretch, they got a little tentative, but again, it's hard to win when you have more turnovers than assists on offense.”

— Alex Jensen, Utah Head Coach (ESPN 700 AM)

What’s next

Utah will continue its two-game road trip when they face West Virginia on Wednesday (6:30 p.m. MST, FS1).

The takeaway

This loss underscores the steep learning curve and competitive challenges facing first-year Utah coach Alex Jensen as he works to rebuild the Utes' program in the rugged Big 12 Conference. Despite the team's effort and improved play in stretches, Utah's inability to execute down the stretch highlights the fine margins between winning and losing that Jensen's squad is navigating this season.