Opinion
3 min read

Can Utah Utes Overcome Stanford Cardinal at Maples Pavilion?

As the Utah Utes prepare to face the Stanford Cardinal at Maples Pavilion, fans are buzzing with anticipation. The Utes have been showing a robust performance this season, and their upcoming clash is no less significant in their quest for dominance.


Mar 8, 2023; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Utah Utes guard Marco Anthony (10) is blocked out by Stanford Cardinal forward Brandon Angel (23) and Stanford Cardinal forward Spencer Jones (14) during the second half at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

In their recent game on January 12 against UCLA Bruins, the Utes displayed an offensive masterclass, securing a resounding 90-44 victory. Their field goal percentage stood at an impressive 50 percent, and they were particularly lethal from beyond the arc with a 41 percent success rate. The team's ability to convert opportunities into points was evident as they amassed a staggering 38 points in the paint and capitalized on turnovers to add another 19 points to their tally.


The defensive prowess of the Utes cannot be overlooked either; they managed to out-rebound UCLA by a wide margin of 50 rebounds to UCLA's 28. This rebounding strength not only provided them with second-chance points but also limited UCLA's opportunities for comebacks.


Mar 8, 2023; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Stanford Cardinal forward Maxime Raynaud (42) dribbles against Utah Utes center Branden Carlson (35) during the first half at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

However, it wasn't all smooth sailing for Utah. In an earlier game against Arizona Wildcats on January 7, despite putting up a valiant effort scoring 73 points and maintaining a decent field goal percentage of around 41 percent, they fell short against Arizona's more efficient offense that boasted both higher shooting percentages and fast break points.


The upcoming game presents an opportunity for redemption as well as consolidation for Utah. Stanford Cardinal will not make it easy though; playing at home gives them an advantage that cannot be underestimated. Yet based on recent performances, it is clear that if Utah maintains its high level of play—particularly in converting turnovers into points and dominating rebounds—they stand a good chance of emerging victorious once again.


Mar 8, 2023; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Stanford Cardinal forward Spencer Jones (14) shoots against Utah Utes guard Marco Anthony (10) during the first half at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

Fans should mark their calendars for January 14 at Maples Pavilion where this exciting encounter will take place at precisely 3:00 PM Mountain Time (MT). For those unable to attend in person, you can catch all the action live on Pac-12 Network. Will the Utes extend their winning ways or will Stanford halt their momentum? Only time will tell.

Rate the article

Related stories

Utah Utes Set to Conquer Indiana State Sycamores at Hinkle Fieldhouse
Opinion

Utah Utes Set to Conquer Indiana State Sycamores at Hinkle Fieldhouse

3 min read
Utah Utes Set to Lock Horns with VCU Rams in Salt Lake City Showdown
Opinion

Utah Utes Set to Lock Horns with VCU Rams in Salt Lake City Showdown

3 min read
Can the Utah Utes Outmaneuver the UC Irvine Anteaters at Home?
Opinion

Can the Utah Utes Outmaneuver the UC Irvine Anteaters at Home?

3 min read