This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2017, and information in the article may be outdated.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.
On Jan. 12 the Utah Utes scored an impressive win, 86-64, over a strong USC basketball team. However, the team's deportment during the playing of our national anthem left much to be desired.
The Utes swayed from side to side like waves rushing to shore at Laguna Beach, Calif. Worse was the disrespect that about half the team showed our flag by not placing their right hands over their heart.
These players should remember that they are role models for thousands of younger male and female basketball players in Utah, not to mention the spectators of their games.
Leadership always starts at the top. Coach Larry Krystkowiak does a terrific job of teaching game tactics and the Xs and Os of basketball to his team. But I believe a head coach is responsible for more than just that.
As a fan of Utah basketball for well over 50 years, I would take even more pride in our team if our players would stand a little taller at attention with their hands over their hearts during the playing of our national anthem before playing a game they love and excel at while bringing joy and excitement to their fans.
David Haughey
Murray