This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2014, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Tempe, Ariz. • With his much-improved play this season, it's arguable that Dallin Bachynski had earned a start well before Utah's matchup with Arizona State on Thursday night.
But juicy storylines are always preferred, and when Larry Krystkowiak sent his junior center out for tipoff, it set up Bachynski against his older brother, Jordan.
Dallin Bachynski played five minutes in the first half, making a pair of free throws and grabbing one rebound. He was forced to sit the last eight minutes when he picked up a second foul.
More than anything, however, Thursday's start was a reward for his solid and steady play this season. He's provided a physical presence on both ends. He's blocked shots and he's gotten rebounds in traffic. With Jordan Bachynski being a big part of almost everything Arizona State does inside, it made sense to put Dallin on him, as he knows his game and what he likes to do more than most.
Jordan Bachynski had seven rebounds and three points in the first half. He also blocked a shot at the expense of his younger brother.
A man short
Senior forward Renan Lenz is progressing from his sprained ankle that he suffered against Washington State. He sat out against ASU, but he practiced this week and he went through shootaround on Thursday morning.
"I definitely wouldn't say that he will be out for the entire road trip," Krystkowiak said. "I think he's getting better by the day and we will continue to evaluate him and see where he's at."
Lenz had been the starter at center for most of the season. He will continue to practice on Friday and Saturday. He's still considered day to day.
Providing a spark
Princeton Onwas was a factor off the bench with his physical defense.
He also provided the ability to penetrate, score baskets and get to the free-throw line off the dribble.