Utes and Cougars Embark on New Challenges in the Big 12

As the 2024-25 college basketball season approaches, the Utah Utes and BYU Cougars find themselves in unfamiliar territory. The Utes, once the preseason favorites in the Pac-12, now face a new set of challenges in the Big 12 conference, while the Cougars look to rebound from a disappointing season in their second year in the league.

Navigating the Competitive Big 12 Landscape

Utah Utes: Adapting to a New Conference

The Utah Utes have been a consistent force in women's basketball, making the NCAA tournament for three consecutive seasons. However, with the departure of All-American Alissa Pili, the team faces a new set of obstacles in the Big 12 conference. Projected to finish sixth in the preseason poll, the Utes will need to rely on the experience and leadership of returning players like Gianna Kneepkens, Jenna Johnson, and Kennady McQueen.Kneepkens, a two-time first-team All-Pac-12 honoree, will be a key contributor for the Utes. After missing most of last season due to a foot injury, the junior guard will be eager to make an impact and help guide the team through the challenges of the Big 12. The Utes also have a solid supporting cast, with the return of several role players and the addition of three freshman guards and transfer forwards Maye Toure and Chyra Evans.The transition to the Big 12 will not be an easy one, as the conference boasts several powerhouses, including preseason favorites Kansas State and Iowa State. The Utes will need to adapt quickly to the physicality and intensity of the Big 12 if they hope to make a deep run in the postseason.

BYU Cougars: Rebuilding and Redefining

The BYU Cougars, on the other hand, are coming off a disappointing 16-17 season in their first year in the Big 12. Projected to finish 12th in the preseason poll, the Cougars face a significant challenge in rebuilding their roster and finding their footing in the conference.The Cougars will be without their top two scorers from last season, Lauren Gustin and Kailey Woolston, due to graduation and an LDS mission, respectively. This leaves a significant void in the team's offensive production, and the Cougars will need to rely on the experience of returning players like Amari Whiting, Emma Calvert, and Lauren Davenport.The Cougars have also brought in a newcomer group that includes five freshmen and four transfers, which could provide a much-needed infusion of talent and energy. However, the team will need to quickly integrate these new players and establish a cohesive unit if they hope to improve upon their previous season's performance.The road ahead for the Cougars will not be an easy one, as they navigate the competitive landscape of the Big 12. Rebuilding and redefining their identity will be crucial for the team's success, and they will need to find a way to overcome the loss of their top scorers and establish a new offensive identity.

Rivalry Renewed: Utah vs. BYU

Despite the challenges facing both teams, the annual matchup between the Utah Utes and BYU Cougars remains a highly anticipated event. The two teams will face off twice this upcoming season, with the first game taking place in Provo on January 25th and the second game in Salt Lake City on March 1st, the regular-season finale for both teams.The rivalry between the Utes and Cougars is deeply rooted in the history of Utah basketball, and these matchups always bring an added level of intensity and excitement. Both teams will be eager to claim bragging rights and establish themselves as the dominant force in the state.As the Utes and Cougars embark on their respective journeys in the Big 12, the rivalry between the two programs will continue to be a highlight of the season. Fans can expect a hard-fought battle as the teams compete for conference positioning and a chance to make a statement in the postseason.