Utah State Overcomes Weber State in Intense 83-73 Rivalry Match

Utah State University (USU) secured an 83-73 victory over Weber State University in a highly anticipated rivalry game on March 15, 2024. This marked the first competitive matchup between the two teams in three years, and the Aggies’ head coach, Jerrod Calhoun, expressed concerns about his team’s performance despite the win.

Calhoun stated, “I thought we got physically manhandled. I thought we played very entitled.” With ten new players on the roster, he acknowledged the challenge of motivating them to recognize the intensity of such rivalries. Despite the victory, the Aggies struggled significantly, shooting just 3 for 23 from three-point range and failing to make a field goal in the last five minutes of the game.

The Aggies, now holding a record of 3-0 for the season, faced a determined Weber State team that is now 1-2. Calhoun praised the Wildcats, saying, “They’ve got a wonderful team… they play the right way.” Weber State’s Nigel Burris, a former Aggie, dominated the boards with 12 rebounds, contributing to the Wildcats’ slight advantage in rebounding at 40 to 38. However, 13 turnovers and a shooting percentage of only 38.6% hampered their chances for victory.

Despite the Aggies’ shooting woes, they excelled in scoring within the paint, outscoring Weber State 46-28. Karson Templin led the Aggies with 16 points, while Kolby King and Garry Clark added 15 and 13 points, respectively. Weber State’s Trevor Henning was the game’s leading scorer with 19 points, but the Wildcats failed to capitalize on their opportunities.

Calhoun also noted the absence of point guard Drake Allen, who suffered a high-ankle sprain just before halftime. He stated, “Drake will probably be out for the next game against UTEP… you’ve got to trust your trainer.” Freshman Elijah Perryman stepped up in Allen’s absence, making a notable contribution with six points and a spectacular dunk.

The game began with Weber State taking an early lead, including a three-pointer from Viljami Vartainen just 20 seconds in. Utah State struggled offensively in the first half, going 0 for 9 from three-point range until Collins made the team’s first three-pointer with just over 17 minutes left in the second half.

King commented on the team’s shooting difficulties, saying, “We usually shoot the ball well… but as you know, teams have nights where the ball just isn’t going in the basket from three.” He emphasized the team’s ability to adapt by focusing on scoring inside the paint.

The match featured a tightly contested first half, with the score tied at 41-41 at halftime. Utah State launched a 13-4 run in the first half, but Weber State managed to keep pace. Both teams faced challenges in their shooting, particularly from beyond the arc.

As the second half progressed, Utah State began to pull away, highlighted by a three-point play from Templin that sparked a 14-3 run. Despite Weber State’s efforts, they could not close the gap, with the Aggies maintaining their lead.

With 43 total fouls called during the game, both teams frequently found themselves at the free-throw line. Utah State converted 22 of 29 attempts, while Weber State made 21 of 28.

The match was attended by a crowd of 9,124, including former USU head coach Craig Smith, who came to support his son, Weber State junior guard Brady Smith, although he did not play.

In conclusion, while Utah State celebrated the victory, Calhoun’s comments suggest a need for improvement as the season progresses. With upcoming games, including a matchup against UTEP, the Aggies will aim to refine their performance and build on their current momentum.