The Utes entered the postseason rallied around the idea of extending the season for their seniors, but when their postseason run ends they’ll lose four starters to graduation.
Utah’s NIT appearance, including the games and practices that come along with it, will likely benefit the program most in the form of additional court time for its underclassmen who will likely have to step into bigger roles next season.
The second-seeded Utes (20-11), who secured their fifth consecutive 20-win season with their first-round win over UC Davis, continue their postseason run against third seed LSU (18-14) at 7 p.