Utah Faces Challenges as Colorado Visits

Utes look to end skid against rival Buffaloes in final home game

Published on Mar. 3, 2026

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Utah's men's basketball team is struggling with inconsistent ball movement and defense as they prepare to host rival Colorado in their final home game of the season. The Utes have lost 10 of their last 11 games, while the Buffaloes are looking to bounce back from a blowout loss to a top-5 team. Both teams have standout individual performers, but Utah will need to improve its overall team play to have a chance against the visiting Buffaloes.

Why it matters

This in-state rivalry game carries added significance as both teams look to end their respective skids and build momentum heading into the postseason. Utah is hoping to send its seniors out on a high note in their final home game, while Colorado wants to prove it can compete with one of the Big 12's top teams.

The details

Utah is struggling with a 1-to-1 assist-to-turnover ratio and poor shooting, while Colorado was blown out by a top-5 team in its last outing. The Utes will need to improve their ball movement and defense to have a chance against the Buffaloes, who beat them 85-73 in their previous matchup earlier this season.

  • Utah's final home game of the season is on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.
  • Colorado defeated Utah 85-73 in their previous matchup on January 7, 2026.

The players

Alex Jensen

First-year head coach of the Utah Utes men's basketball team.

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.

Tad Boyle

Head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes men's basketball team.

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, Head Coach, Utah Utes (statenews.net)

“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, Head Coach, Colorado Buffaloes (statenews.net)

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 highlights the challenges both Utah and Colorado are facing as they look to end their respective skids and build momentum heading into the postseason. Improved team play and defensive intensity will be key for the Utes if they hope to upset their in-state rivals in the final home game of the season.