Preview: Utah Tech at Utah Valley, Men’s Basketball

VINEYARD, Utah (Interstat) — A surging Utah Valley squad hosts in-state foe Utah Tech in a Western Athletic Conference men’s basketball matchup Saturday at the UCCU Center.

The Utah Valley Wolverines (13-4) enter with momentum, having won eight of their last nine games. Their most recent result was an 89-72 home victory over Southern Utah on Thursday. Guard Jackson Holcombe led the way with 23 points and five assists, continuing a stellar stretch where he has averaged over 20 points per game in his last four contests.

The Utah Tech Trailblazers (9-8) look to rebound after a 72-84 road loss at California Baptist on Thursday. Forward Ethan Potter scored 20 points in that defeat and has been a consistent offensive force, averaging 16.3 points over his last seven games.

This game marks the first of two regular-season meetings between the programs this season. They are scheduled to meet again in St. George on Feb. 12.

Utah Valley has established itself as a strong home team, boasting notable non-conference wins over Weber State and UC Santa Barbara in Orem. Their conference loss came on the road against Abilene Christian on Jan. 3.

Utah Tech has shown resilience on the road this season, with close victories at Abilene Christian and Weber State in December. However, consistency has been an issue, as evidenced by the Trailblazers’ alternating results in their last five games.

The matchup features two of the WAC’s top individual performers. Holcombe’s dynamic scoring and playmaking will be central to Utah Valley’s attack. Containing Potter, who has scored 18 or more points in three of his last five outings, will be a key defensive focus for the Wolverines.

Tip-off is set for Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026. Utah Valley’s next game is at home against Texas-Arlington on Jan. 17. Utah Tech continues its road swing at Texas-Arlington on Jan. 15.