The Runnin’ Utes started conference play cold.
Utah went 0 for 6 from beyond the arc in the first half of Friday night.
Then their “security blanket” warmed things up.
Gabe Madsen scored all 20 of his points after halftime, propelling the Utes to an 80-58 win over Washington State.
“It took a while to get going,” Madsen said, “but as a good shooter, it only takes one shot.”
Madsen hit four of the Utes’ seven second-half triples at the Huntsman Center.
Utah head coach Craig Smith, center, reacts during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against Washington State, Friday, Dec. 29, 2023, in Salt Lake City. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)
“Gabe can be a security blanket,” Runnin’ Utes coach Craig Smith said. “Our guys have the ultimate confidence in him. Dude’s in the gym nonstop, working on his game. He’s made just a monster step.”
Madsen was one of four Utah scorers in double figures Friday. Big man Branden Carlson had 19 points and high rebounds. Keba Keita finished with 18 points and 11 boards. Point guard Rollie Worster had 11 points and seven assists.
Utah center Branden Carlson (35) goes to the basket as Washington State forward Oscar Cluff (45) defends during the second half of an NCAA college basketball Friday, Dec. 29, 2023, in Salt Lake City. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)
The win moved the Utes to 10-2 on the season.
Up next, Utah hosts Washington on Sunday at 4 p.m.