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Utah Utes Basketball: Season Preview and Alex Jensen Era Begins | Mikal Bridges Struggles with Inconsistency, Plagued by Foul Trouble | Nazar's PPG Wins It in Overtime: Blackhawks Beat Mammoth | Pacers-Clippers Trade: Mathurin and Zubac's Impact | Troy Wins Sun Belt Tournament, Earns NCAA Berth | RMU Men's Hockey Advances to AHA Semifinals After Tense Series | Oregon State Basketball: The End of the Wayne Tinkle Era | Mexico vs. USA: Intense Rivalry at the World Baseball Classic 2026 | Italy vs. Great Britain in 2026 World Baseball Classic: Espresso-Fueled Victory | Utah Utes Basketball: Season Preview and Alex Jensen Era Begins | Mikal Bridges Struggles with Inconsistency, Plagued by Foul Trouble | Nazar's PPG Wins It in Overtime: Blackhawks Beat Mammoth | Pacers-Clippers Trade: Mathurin and Zubac's Impact | Troy Wins Sun Belt Tournament, Earns NCAA Berth | RMU Men's Hockey Advances to AHA Semifinals After Tense Series | Oregon State Basketball: The End of the Wayne Tinkle Era | Mexico vs. USA: Intense Rivalry at the World Baseball Classic 2026 | Italy vs. Great Britain in 2026 World Baseball Classic: Espresso-Fueled Victory

Sports / College Basketball

Utah Utes Basketball: Season Preview and Alex Jensen Era Begins

The 2025-26 season marks the beginning of a new era for Utah Utes basketball under the leadership of former Ute star Alex Jensen. With a revamped roster and a focus on player development, the Runnin’ Utes aim to rebuild and compete in the c...

How will Utah basketball look in Year 1 of the Alex Jensen era?
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Utah Utes Basketball: Season Preview and Alex Jensen Era Begins Image via Deseret News

Key Insights

  • **New Coaching Era:** Alex Jensen, bringing NBA experience, takes over as head coach, emphasizing player development and a team-first mentality.
  • **Roster Overhaul:** The Utes feature 12 new players, creating a learning curve as they build chemistry and cohesion.
  • **Key Players:** Junior forward Keanu Dawes, junior guard Terrence Brown, and fifth-year transfer guard Don McHenry are expected to play significant roles.
  • **Preseason Expectations:** The Utes are predicted to finish 13th in the Big 12, with a focus on continuous improvement and challenging every opponent.
  • **Season Opener:** Utah begins its season against San Jose State on November 3, 2025, marking the start of a six-game home stand.

In-Depth Analysis

### Background Alex Jensen's arrival signals a fresh start for a program aiming to return to its former glory. With a focus on players who 'like to play' and a 10-point plan for development, Jensen is setting a new culture.

### Roster Composition The Utes' roster features a mix of returning players and newcomers from various backgrounds. Key players to watch include:

  • **Keanu Dawes:** The lone returning player with significant minutes, Dawes is expected to be a leader.
  • **Terrence Brown:** A transfer from Fairleigh Dickinson, Brown brings scoring punch to the team.
  • **Don McHenry:** A fifth-year transfer from Western Kentucky, McHenry adds experience and playmaking.

### Schedule and Expectations The season begins with a manageable stretch of home games, providing an opportunity for the team to gel. Key non-conference matchups include games against Grand Canyon, Iowa, or Ole Miss in the Acrisure Series, and road games against California and Washington. KenPom predicts Utah will win nine nonconference games.

### Jensen's Approach Jensen emphasizes a measured approach, focusing on continuous improvement and not getting rushed. His goal is to build a program the right way, prioritizing player development and team chemistry.

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FAQ

- **Q: What are the expectations for Utah this season?

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- **Q: Who are the key players to watch?

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- **Q: What is Alex Jensen's coaching philosophy?

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Takeaways

  • The Utah Utes basketball team is entering a rebuilding phase under new head coach Alex Jensen.
  • Key players will need to step up and lead a roster with many new faces.
  • The team's success will depend on its ability to build chemistry and cohesion throughout the season.
  • Expect a focus on player development and a long-term approach to building a competitive program.

Discussion

What are your expectations for the Runnin’ Utes this season? Who do you think will be the breakout player? Let us know in the comments below!

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Disclaimer

This article was compiled by Yanuki using publicly available data and trending information. The content may summarize or reference third-party sources that have not been independently verified. While we aim to provide timely and accurate insights, the information presented may be incomplete or outdated.

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