In the hours after Utah bested Oregon on November 10, still maintaining the hope that the fleeting Pac-12 South crown might soon belong to the Utes, one of Utah’s most important players took to Twitter and gave thanks. In giant pinkish letters, Julian Blackmon wrote: “Thank you.” The two words were placed over a photo of himself addressing the media at an earlier time. Surrounding his thanks were various messages he’s seen or received throughout his junior season.
None of them were affectionate. They were slights, insults, typical in nature. From being overrated, to looking lost, to not being starter quality, to getting roasted by opposing wide receivers, Blackmon relayed many and could’ve included more.