This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2017, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

As if the Utah-BYU series resuming next season needed more fire — the Runnin' Utes have signed a former Cougar commit.

Christian PoPoola Jr., a 6-foot-4 combo guard from Las Vegas, is the latest addition to the 2017 recruiting class, which is starting to stock up with the back court help Utah needs.

PoPoola is coming off http://nevadapreps.com/boys-basketball/4a-boys-bishop-gorman-s-late-rally-stuns-clark-championship-game";>his second straight state championship with Bishop Gorman, but http://www.sltrib.com/home/2832328-155/boys-basketball-lone-peaks-christian-popoola";>played at Lone Peak High as a sophomore. A three-star prospect according to Scout and Rivals, PoPoola should add length, athletic ability and defensive playmaking to Utah's guard lineup — he's expected to contribute early next season.

PoPoola was once expected to sign with BYU in November,http://www.sltrib.com/blogs/4595172-155/story.html";> but did not. After decommitting, he also visited Boise State.

The son of former UNLV Rebel Christian PoPoola Sr., PoPoola is Utah's second addition this year from Las Vegas. The Utes signed http://bit.ly/2nJzwaO";>Findlay Prep forward Donnie Tillman earlier this month. Utah also signed transfer http://bit.ly/2pPJvYH";>guard Justin Bibbins earlier this week.

Popoola wasn't immediately available for comment.

With three signees, Utah now has one available scholarship remaining, with two possible if Kyle Kuzma elects not to return for his senior year.

kgoon@sltrib.com
Twitter: @kylegoon