SALT LAKE CITY — It's not quite as tough as the past two years, but the Utah basketball team will have another challenging schedule with the potential to play several top teams.

Utah's schedule is highlighted by an appearance in the Diamond Head Classic in Honolulu on Dec. 22-25. The field is strong with national runner-up Butler, Elite Eight finisher Baylor, along with Mississippi State, Florida State, Washington State, San Diego and host Hawaii. Utah's first-round opponent has not yet been determined.

The Utes will also have road games at Bradley, Michigan, Portland and Utah State. Among the home games are Fresno State, Oregon, Weber State, Oral Roberts, Pepperdine and Montana.

"We have stayed true to our philosophy of playing a difficult nonconference schedule that includes teams from the top leagues across the country," said Utah coach Jim Boylen. "Our team and coaching staff are very excited about the opportunity to participate in big games at great venues. Our goal is always to get into the top 25 and compete for an MWC championship. I think this schedule will prepare us to reach both of those goals."

The Utes will play one exhibition game Nov. 5 against Adams State, before officially opening the season against Grand Canyon on Nov. 12.

Utah's conference schedule will be released by the Mountain West Conference office in August.

2010-11 nonconference schedule

Nov. 5 Adams State (Exhibition)

Nov. 12 Grand Canyon

Nov. 17 Montana

Nov. 20 Weber State

Nov. 24 at Utah State

Nov. 27 Oral Roberts

Nov. 30 Fresno State

Dec. 4 at Bradley (MWC/MVC Challenge

Dec. 7 Pepperdine

Dec. 10 at Michigan

Dec. 18 Oregon

Dec. 22 TBD (Diamondhead Classic at Honolulu)

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Dec. 23 TBD (Diamondhead Classic at Honolulu)

Dec. 25 TBD (Diamondhead Classic at Honolulu)

Dec. 31 at Portland

e-mail: sor@desnews.com

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