With expectations raised to a level the program hasn't seen in years, it's perhaps fitting that Utah's first measuring stick comes against a longtime nemesis.
The No. 16 Utes look to end a string of frustrating results against San Diego State when the former conference rivals square off Monday night at the Huntsman Center.
Though do-it-all point guard Delon Wright is now in the NBA, Utah garnered its highest preseason ranking since entering 2000-01 at No. 13. The Utes are returning the next seven highest scorers from a squad that won 26 games and reached the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament.