The Utah basketball team closes out its home season at one of the earliest dates ever when it takes on San Diego State tonight (7:30 p.m.) at the Huntsman Center.
The Utes will be trying to get one step closer to their second straight Western Athletic Conference title before heading on the road for three games at Fresno State, Air Force and BYU prior to the WAC tournament.San Diego State was the surprise team at the start of the WAC season, but has since faded to sixth place at 7-6. In the earlier meeting between the two teams, Utah overcame an 11-point halftime deficit to win 67-59.
The Aztecs have a balanced team led by forward Paul Jarrett, a transfer from New Mexico State, who averages 12.8 points per game. Other starters include guards Chad Nelson and freshman Raymond King, Kareem Anderson and center Leon Carter, a former Green River High and College of Eastern Utah standout.
"San Diego State will be a real difficult game for us," said Ute coach Rick Majerus. "We expect a real challenge."
The Utes will be out improve their free throw shooting and defense against field goals. They led the nation in both categories for several weeks but have faltered lately, shooting just 61 percent from the line the past three games and allowing opponents to shoot 51 percent from the field.
Tonight's game will also mark the final home performance for seniors Mark Rydalch, Brandon Jessie and Doug Chapman as well as seldom-used Doug Meacham and Chris Jensen.
"I have ambivelant feelings about the game," said Ute coach Rick Majerus. "It's going to be really sad to see these players walk out of here."
The Utes will have a brief pre-game ceremony in which Majerus will honor each of his senior players.