Utah guards Lorenzo Bonam and Devon Daniels scored double-doubles Friday night to head the Utes’ (4-0, 4-0 home) winning effort over UC Riverside (1-3), 85-67.
SALT LAKE CITY—Utah guards Lorenzo Bonam and Devon Daniels scored double-doubles Friday night to head the Utes’ (4-0, 4-0 home) winning effort over UC Riverside (1-3), 85-67.
Though a rebound short of a third team double-double, Utes freshman forward and defensive standout Jayce Johnson scored in double-digits for the first time in his career.
“Jayce has been putting in some time in and around the basket, slowing down a little bit,” said head coach Larry Krystkowiak. “Oftentimes freshman coming in, that’s the thing…as you take a jump up each level, the game is going pretty fast. Tonight Jayce made three or four post moves that were under control and took advantage of his size.”
Lorenzo Bonam led the effort for Utah in the first half, cruising to 15 points and six rebounds, finding lanes all across the key to drive to the basket. Bonam finished the game with 21 points, the first time in his career eclipsing 20.
“I’m really happy for Zo, because he’s had a couple great weeks of practice,” Krystkowiak said. “He didn’t start the season like we all expected. I think he was a little bit embarrassed…The thing I’ve noticed more than anything is an effort, a really consistent effort in every minute of our practices and games where he’s focused and locked in.”
Daniels followed Bonam’s lead, shooting into the paint for 14 points and gathered eleven rebounds.
“That’s just how I play,” said Daniels. “I like to attack my opponent. I like to get as many chances for my team…as possible.”
At times the Highlanders scored in bunches, including an 11-2 run in the first half to take the lead over Utah.
““I forgot what media timeout it was, but we got in there and were like, ‘hey, we need to get stops,” said Kyle Kuzma, who scored 18 points. “’If we can do that, we can run, because their defensive transition wasn’t that good.’ That was just our mindset…the rest of the game.”
Utah did get stops, and cruised out to as much as a 25-point lead in the second half. The Utes turned the ball over 14 times, which Highlanders converted into 21 points to keep it from a big blowout, but Utah sailed away comfortably.
The Utes will face their toughest test to date on Monday evening when the Butler Bulldogs come into the Huntsman Center. Tipoff will be at 7:00 p.m. with pregame coverage starting at 5:00 p.m. on ESPN 700.
Larry Krystkowiak Postgame:
Kyle Kuzma, Devon Daniels Postgame:
Jayce Johnson on Utah Sports Radio Network Postgame:
Asst. coach Tommy Connor on Network Postgame:
Highlights:
