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SALT LAKE CITY - Each week, ksl.com's Robert Jackson asks Jimmy Soto three questions about the state of the University of Utah basketball program.
Last week, the Runnin' Utes (4-11) picked up their first Pac-12 conference win, beating Washington State 62-60 in overtime. The Utes also lost a hard fought contest to Washington, 57-53.
What a difference just a few days can make. A week before, Utah lost to Colorado by 40. How were the Utes able to turn things around so quickly?
Let's ask Jimmy.
1. Defensively, Utah held two Pac-12 opponents well below their scoring average, only allowing 60 against Washington State and 57 against Washington. In fact, in Utah's four wins this season, it is only allowing an average of 60 points per game. How were the Utes able to control the tempo so well in those games?
The Utes have managed the tempo offensively but the biggest difference has been their ability to manage the opponent's tempo with good defense. Every team the Utes face will have a scoring threat, if not 2 or 3 as was the case with UW. When the opponent has that many options you know at least one, if not both are going to have a good night. The key to the Utes defensively, knowing that the other team has guys that will score, is to make them work for their buckets. In both games last week, the Utes made the opponent work for points by not allowing easy, open and uncontested looks at the basket. It is much harder to score the ball when you are contesting shots. The Utes also have done a good job of taking care of the ball the last two games with few turnovers. Turnovers usually lead to easy baskets, and at a minimum, extra scoring opportunities.
2. 7'3 center David Foster injured his foot in an exhibition game against Adams State before the season began. Does it look like he will play this season, and if so, what is the timetable for his return?
There is still no definite timetable on a return for David Foster, but he is out of his cast and in a walking boot.
3. Jimmy, you played for the Utes from 1989-93, guiding Utah to 2 NCAA Tournaments and being named first team all-WAC in 1993. Describe the feeling of being able to call the games for the radio broadcasts, as well as being able to be so close to a program that you yourself were an integral part of.
It has been a lot of fun calling the games for the Utes on the radio. It was really something I never thought about or anticipated doing, but I've really appreciated the opportunity. I've never been a coach but I would say it's probably the closest thing to being on the sideline, but unlike our head coaches I have the comfort of being able to quickly forget the final score. There is something really special about being a part of a team and calling the games makes me appreciate my experiences as a player even more.
Utah returns to the hardcourt Thursday to take on the Stanford Cardinal (13-3) in California.
If you have questions you would like to ask Jimmy, email Robert at rojackson@ksl.com.
| **Robert Jackson:** | *Email: | *Twitter: [@rojackKSL](http://twitter.com/#!/rojackKSL)* |
