Utah Faces Challenges as Colorado Visits

Utes struggle with turnovers and defense in recent losses ahead of matchup with Buffaloes

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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First-year Utah coach Alex Jensen is concerned about his team's lack of ball movement and defensive lapses as the Utes prepare to host rival Colorado. Utah has lost 10 of its last 11 games, including a 73-60 defeat at Arizona State where the team had a 1-to-1 assist-to-turnover ratio. Meanwhile, Colorado is looking to bounce back after a 102-62 blowout loss at Houston, where head coach Tad Boyle was ejected. The Buffaloes previously beat Utah 85-73 in January behind strong performances from Sebastian Rancik and Bangot Dak.

Why it matters

This in-state rivalry matchup is important for both teams as they try to finish the season strong. Utah is struggling mightily and needs to address its turnover and defensive issues, while Colorado will look to rebound from a lopsided loss against a top-5 opponent. The outcome could impact seeding and momentum heading into the Big 12 tournament.

The details

Utah has lost 10 of its last 11 games, including a 73-60 defeat at Arizona State where the team had a 1-to-1 assist-to-turnover ratio. Coach Alex Jensen cited the lack of ball movement and unselfish play as key factors in the loss. Meanwhile, Colorado is coming off a 102-62 blowout loss at Houston, where head coach Tad Boyle was ejected in the first half. The Buffaloes previously beat Utah 85-73 in January behind strong performances from Sebastian Rancik and Bangot Dak.

  • Utah and Colorado will face off on Tuesday night in Salt Lake City.
  • Utah's last game was a 73-60 loss at Arizona State on Saturday.
  • Colorado's last game was a 102-62 defeat at Houston on Saturday.

The players

Alex Jensen

First-year head coach of the Utah Utes.

Tad Boyle

Head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes.

Terrence Brown

Utah's leading scorer, averaging 19.7 points per game.

Don McHenry

One of two Utah seniors who will be honored before the game.

Isaiah Johnson

Colorado's leading scorer, averaging 16.4 points per game.

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What they’re saying

“It's hard to win when you have a 1-to-1 assist-to-turnover ratio, especially on the road. I think it's one of the more selfish games we've had as a group this year. Our lack of passing led to letdowns on the defensive end.”

— Alex Jensen, Utah Head Coach (CBS Sports)

“I liked the way we started the game but we couldn't sustain it. It's a great learning opportunity for our young guys to see what a top-five team in the country looks like.”

— Tad Boyle, Colorado Head Coach (CBS Sports)

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 game will be a test for both teams as they try to address their recent issues and gain momentum heading into the Big 12 tournament. Utah needs to improve its ball movement and defense, while Colorado looks to rebound from a lopsided loss against a top-ranked opponent.