SALT LAKE CITY — In its first true test of the new season, the No. 16 Runnin' Utes proved worthy against a physical San Diego State program that gave Utah fits early last season.
The win comes as a good non-conference resume builder in Utah's quest to return to the NCAA Tournament a year after a Sweet 16 appearance. Most importantly, though, it was a test of how well Utah could transition without that of former star guard Delon Wright.
The game was a physical back-and-forth matchup, but Utah stepped up late and went on a 10-4 run with 4 minutes left in the game.