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<title>USU basketball Archives - The Utah Statesman</title>
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<title>Hometown hero: Mason Falslev</title>
<link>https://usustatesman.com/hometown-hero-mason-falslev/</link>
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<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mark Greenwood]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Mon, 03 Mar 2025 13:55:02 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[All]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Basketball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Men's Basketball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[basketball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Elle Dunyon]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[falslev]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[head coach Jerrod Calhoun]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[jerrod calhoun]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mason Falslev]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Men's basketball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[USU basketball]]></category>
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<description><![CDATA[<p>Utah State University Men’s Basketball is on its third coach in as many years. Despite all the coaching turbulence, the…</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://usustatesman.com/hometown-hero-mason-falslev/">Hometown hero: Mason Falslev</a> appeared first on <a href="https://usustatesman.com">The Utah Statesman</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="p1">Utah State University Men’s Basketball is on its third coach in as many years. Despite all the coaching turbulence, the Aggies have remained at the top of the Mountain West Conference and made a postseason appearance the last six years.</p>
<p class="p2">From past players such as Sam Merrill and Justin Bean to current players like Ian Martinez and Isaac Johnson, many Aggie stars have elected to stay in Logan even when head coaches came and went.</p>
<p class="p2">For many of these Utah State players that have decided to stay, the relationships in Cache Valley go beyond Aggie basketball and playing games in the Dee Glen Smith Spectrum — no matter how magical it may be. Many have family or local ties past playing hoops that anchor them to Logan despite other reasons to leave. In few cases is that more prevalent than for sophomore guard Mason Falslev.</p>
<p class="p2">Falslev, Cache Valley native and graduate of Sky View High School, has been at Utah State for three seasons and has had a different head coach in all three.</p>
<p class="p2">Loyalty from players and coaches to specific programs is becoming extremely uncommon in college athletics. New coaches frequently bring several players with them and ask the remaining players to leave to make room.</p>
<p class="p2">When Jerrod Calhoun was hired as the new head coach at Utah State, his focus was not to bring players with him but to build on an already prosperous program.</p>
<p class="p2">“I just thought these kids are used to winning. An old Jim Tressel quote that has stuck with me seven years — eight years ago now — when I got to Youngstown State was ‘Winners know how to win,’” Calhoun said in an interview with The Utah Statesman. “To me, Mason Falslev entails what winning is supposed to look like, not just on game night but daily at practice — in the community — and all my research, all my conversations with him, kind of aligned to that quote, and I wanted to make sure he was a key priority in us moving forward.”</p>
<p class="p2">If there’s one thing Falslev knows how to do, it’s win. Falslev spent his high school days leading Sky View to state championships in basketball and football as the back-to-back 4A state MVP in basketball and the 2019 4A MVP in football.</p>
<p class="p2">In his time at USU, Falslev has already proven success and winning remain in his DNA beyond the high school level. A year ago, Falslev earned Mountain West Freshman of the Week honors three times and now ranks in the top 10 in 18 different categories in the Utah State freshman record books.</p>
<p class="p2">This season, Falslev has been Mountain West Player of the Week four times and Oscar Robertson National Player of the Week twice. He was also the NIT Season Tip-Off MVP after big performances against St. Bonaventure and North Texas. Winners certainly know how to win, and Falslev continues to prove winning is a skill he’s acquired.</p>
<p><img decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-22134371" src="https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/20250129_mensbasketballvsunlv-15.jpg" alt="" width="1" height="1" /></p>
<p><b><span data-contrast="auto">Life before Utah State</span></b><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">While Falslev is now working on cementing his status as an Aggie legend, that wasn’t always the case. He originally committed as a sophomore in high school to play at the University of Utah under head coach Larry Krystkowiak. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Falslev’s decision was largely impacted by his relationship with Rylan Jones, who played for the Utes from 2019-21, where his father Chris Jones was an assistant coach. Falslev’s relationship with Jones and his father may have initially prompted his commitment to the U of U, but it is also one of the contributing factors to his strong Aggie ties. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Chris spent significant time as an assistant coach at Utah State prior to heading to Utah, leading to Falslev spending time in the Spectrum and fostering a relationship with Utah State. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Falslev graduated high school in 2020 after a prolific high school career and left basketball to serve a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Just a few months into his service in Brazil, Krystkowiak was fired as the head coach at Utah. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">The Utes filled their head coaching vacancy with former Utah State head coach Craig Smith, who had just led the Aggies to two conference championships and three straight NCAA tournament appearances in his three years as head coach. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“I was out for four or five months, and then he got fired, and coach Smith, who was at Utah State — I was pretty close with him — he went to Utah. So, I got on a phone call with him, and I was still planning on going to Utah,” Falslev said in an interview with the Statesman.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">However, with Krystkowiak’s departure, Chris also departed, and Rylan ended up transferring to Utah State for the 2021-22 season, where he played for two seasons. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“I don’t know — things just kind of switched up. My dad got on the phone with me one day and was like, ‘Hey, just so you know, I don’t know how I know this, but there’s a spot for you at Utah State if you’d rather go there.’ So, after a lot of thought and prayer and fasting, I decided to go to Utah State instead of Utah,” Falslev said.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Falslev’s strong religious ties have always played a big part in his life. Utah State has a diverse team with many different religious backgrounds, each forming who the players are today.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">For Calhoun, the strong religious beliefs of Falslev and others is part of what makes his team so special.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“I’m a member of the Catholic Church. We pretty much go every Sunday if we’re in town. So, I think there’s a lot of different religions, but what I have realized here with my team — my guys are very, very disciplined,” Calhoun said. “Our team is very mature, and they put we over me. They put the team over themselves, and that’s been kind of our mantra all year … and Mason certainly starts – it starts and ends with him and some of our leaders.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<div id="attachment_22134221" style="width: 589px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-22134221" class="size-medium wp-image-22134221" src="https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/20250222-mbbvsdsu-3-579x600.jpg" alt="" width="579" height="600" srcset="https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/20250222-mbbvsdsu-3-579x600.jpg 579w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/20250222-mbbvsdsu-3-966x1000.jpg 966w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/20250222-mbbvsdsu-3-290x300.jpg 290w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/20250222-mbbvsdsu-3-1484x1536.jpg 1484w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/20250222-mbbvsdsu-3-335x347.jpg 335w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/20250222-mbbvsdsu-3-1050x1087.jpg 1050w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/20250222-mbbvsdsu-3.jpg 1978w" sizes="(max-width: 579px) 100vw, 579px" /><p id="caption-attachment-22134221" class="wp-caption-text">Guard Mason Falslev looks for a pass during the game against SDSU.</p></div>
<p><b><span data-contrast="auto">A True-Blooded Aggie</span></b><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">After returning from his mission, Falslev redshirted his freshman season with coach Ryan Odom during the 2022-23 season, where the Aggies finished 26-9, ending the season with an NCAA tournament bid. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Less than two weeks later, Odom was hired by Virginia Commonwealth University as their next head coach, ending his two-year stint in Logan. Falslev elected to stay and welcome Danny Sprinkle to the program shortly after.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“My first year, I redshirted, and I knew I wanted to be here. I didn’t really have a chance to go anywhere else, so I was just all bought in and willing to do whatever it took to play here at Utah State,” Falslev said. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">As a redshirt freshman during the 2023-24 season, Falslev averaged over 11 points and 28 minutes per game, helping the team to its first outright regular-season Mountain West Championship in program history. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">The Aggies also advanced to the NCAA tournament, where they defeated Texas Christian University 88-72 for their first NCAA tournament win in over two decades. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“Coach Sprinkle came in and gave me a chance, and I had a super fun year … and a big year where I learned a lot about myself,” Falslev said. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Less than a week after their tournament run came to an end, Sprinkle was hired by the University of Washington, and the program was again left without a captain at the helm. Just a few days later, Calhoun was named the new head coach. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“Sprinkle left, and I got in the portal just because I didn’t know who the next coach was going to be and if he was going to bring in like 10 guys or what was going to happen. So, it was more for just safety reasons,” Falslev said. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Falslev was only in the transfer portal for about a week before taking the offer from Calhoun and company to stay in Logan and build his brand as an Aggie.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“I always wanted to be here. I’ve got to, got to get married, got to do a few things, and so that was a big part of me staying too — was my fiancée,” Falslev said. “Obviously, my friends and family are all here. So, it was a pretty easy decision.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<div id="attachment_22134383" style="width: 490px" class="wp-caption alignnone"> <div class="media-credit-container alignnone" style="max-width: 490px">
<img decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-22134383" class="size-medium wp-image-22134383" src="https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20250129_mensbasketballvsunlv-19-1-480x600.jpg" alt="" width="480" height="600" srcset="https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20250129_mensbasketballvsunlv-19-1-480x600.jpg 480w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20250129_mensbasketballvsunlv-19-1-800x1000.jpg 800w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20250129_mensbasketballvsunlv-19-1-240x300.jpg 240w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20250129_mensbasketballvsunlv-19-1-1229x1536.jpg 1229w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20250129_mensbasketballvsunlv-19-1-335x419.jpg 335w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20250129_mensbasketballvsunlv-19-1-1050x1313.jpg 1050w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20250129_mensbasketballvsunlv-19-1.jpg 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" /><span class="media-credit">JACK LEWIS BURTON</span> </div>
<p id="caption-attachment-22134383" class="wp-caption-text">Mason Falslev, 12, takes a free throw at the Dee Glen Smith Spectrum on Jan. 29.</p></div>
<p><b><span data-contrast="auto">Bigger than Basketball</span></b><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Falslev and his now fiancée Elle Dunyon got engaged after dating for about a year, but they had known each other for longer than that.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“My freshman year, two years ago, Mason had a class with my roommates, and he became friends with them and invited them over to a game night at his house,” Dunyon said in an interview with the Statesman. “They brought me, and we just hit it off that first night, and he asked me on a date.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Falslev and Dunyon met at that game night in the fall of 2022 but didn’t start dating for another year, despite the initial chemistry. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“I was pretty set on I didn’t want a boyfriend, just wanted to go on lots of dates and meet lots of people and have fun with my friends my freshman year,” Dunyon said. “But he was the one person that if he asked me on a date, I had to say yes because I always had a big crush on him.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">For many student-athletes, athletics dominate their lives both on and off the court. In the case of Falslev and Dunyon, they try to keep basketball separate.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“She’s awesome. Makes my life way easier — way better. After I have a bad game or something, I can go and hang out with her, and she makes it a lot easier on me,” Falslev said. “As far as basketball goes, I kind of like doing that on my own … I’ve got my friends and buddies to do that with.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“He talks to most people about basketball all day. He has practices and lifts and interviews … He’s always had basketball be a huge part of his life since he was five years old,” Dunyon said. “I think that it’s important to have people outside of your sport that just love you for you … I feel like I’m the one person that he can talk to and not have it revolve around basketball but just have it revolve around him as an individual.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Though Falslev’s plan was always to stay if possible, he still scared Dunyon during his short stint in the transfer portal.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“He was super open with me about everything. He always kept me in the loop on what he was thinking. The only real time I was super scared was on April Fool’s Day,” Dunyon said. “He played a prank on me and told me that he was leaving and going to Washington. It was just an April Fool’s Day prank, but it was the worst prank he’s ever pulled on me ever.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Falslev and Dunyon got engaged in November, just when the hectic basketball schedule was getting started. Even with their packed schedules, the two find a way to make time for each other and will be married at the end of May. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<div class="media-credit-container alignnone" style="max-width: 410px">
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-22134382" src="https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/engagement_photo-400x600.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="600" srcset="https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/engagement_photo-400x600.jpg 400w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/engagement_photo-667x1000.jpg 667w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/engagement_photo-200x300.jpg 200w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/engagement_photo-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/engagement_photo-335x503.jpg 335w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/engagement_photo-1050x1575.jpg 1050w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/engagement_photo.jpg 1333w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /><span class="media-credit">Nadene Kimball</span> </div>
<p><b><span data-contrast="auto">Better and Better</span></b><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">In addition to his busy year of courting Dunyon, Falslev has also found time to level up as a basketball player as well. During his freshman season, Falslev shot 30% from three and averaged just over 11 points per game. This season, he is shooting over 40% from deep and averaging nearly 15 points per game. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“I knew that I needed to get better in a few areas. I needed to be able to shoot a mid-range shot and shoot threes, and so I spent a lot of time on my three-pointer and even mid-range,” Falslev said about his offseason workouts. “Last year, I feel like I really struggled to shoot the ball outside the paint area. So yeah, it’s been a fun year, and you know, this year, I’m learning a lot about myself. There’re still so many things I need to improve on and get better at.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">His work over the summer has paid dividends for the Aggies, as he’s become one of their top producers. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“Last year, he’s probably the fifth option. This year, he’s 1A … Early in the season, he really wasn’t scoring. The first three or four games, I had to really strategically look at what I was calling and how I could help him,” Calhoun said. “Once we were able to do that, I think he’s really flourished. He’s playing to his strengths. He’s getting downhill. He’s making threes — highest he’s ever shot the three-point ball. He’s efficient around the rim, and I think he plays out of pick and rolls a lot better.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Falslev has been a key factor in Utah State’s great season, leading them to a probable third straight NCAA tournament berth as one of three team captains. He has also played himself into the conversation for First Team All-Mountain West. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Possibly more important than any of that is his trajectory to be remembered as one of the all-time Aggie greats.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“I’ve been very fortunate — part of a Final Four staff, national runner up staff, Division II, a Sweet 16, National Championship at the NAIA level. I’ve been part of like five teams that I’ll never forget as long as I live,” Calhoun said. “He ranks amongst the greats that I’ve ever been around. Whether I was the head coach, assistant coach, director of basketball operations, I’ve been around a lot of good leaders and a lot of good players. I put him at the top.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Falslev grew up in and around the Spectrum, watching players such as Jaycee Caroll and Tai Wesley leave a lasting impact on Utah State and its fans. Though it may not have his been his original plans, Falslev is on a path that will put him in that conversation and right near the top of it.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“If I’m Mason Falslev, and I’m looking at my trajectory and what I’ve done already, I’ve won 28 games, I have 22 wins this year — you’re talking about a legacy that might hard for anyone to ever beat,” Calhoun said during his weekly coaches show on Feb. 13. “You’ll live here in Cache Valley, you’ll walk into the Spectrum and see that 12 jersey hanging someday, and hopefully, that’s how he’s thinking.” </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Though it wasn’t Falslev’s original plan or intention, the possibility is exciting for the Cache Valley kid.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“It’s really cool that coach talks about me like that. I’ve been coming here since I was in the second grade. My team would practice here, and my little league team would practice here,” Falslev said while slowly gazing around the Spectrum. “I look at those jerseys up there every day at practice. To think that maybe my jersey could be up there one day is — it’s super special.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">With an already prolific USU career behind him and a long and fruitful Aggie future in the cards, the sky is the limit for the 6-foot-3 sophomore from Benson.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“I just want to be close to home, close to my family, playing in front of my family and friends,” Falslev said. “I met my wife here and [it’s a] super special place. I want to live here when I’m older, so I would love to finish my career here.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://usustatesman.com/hometown-hero-mason-falslev/">Hometown hero: Mason Falslev</a> appeared first on <a href="https://usustatesman.com">The Utah Statesman</a>.</p>
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<title>Livingston: Local legend</title>
<link>https://usustatesman.com/livingston-a-local-legend/</link>
<comments>https://usustatesman.com/livingston-a-local-legend/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Carson Frost]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Mon, 03 Mar 2025 13:48:07 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[All]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Basketball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Women's Basketball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[brooks]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Livingston]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Tarver]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[USU basketball]]></category>
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<description><![CDATA[<p>From her early days playing recreational basketball to becoming one of the standout first-year players for Utah State, Elise Livingston’s…</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://usustatesman.com/livingston-a-local-legend/">Livingston: Local legend</a> appeared first on <a href="https://usustatesman.com">The Utah Statesman</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="p1">From her early days playing recreational basketball to becoming one of the standout first-year players for Utah State, Elise Livingston’s journey has been defined by dedication, resilience and an unrelenting work ethic. Now, in her first season with the Aggies, Livingston is proving why she was a must-have recruit for head coach Wesley Brooks and why she could be a centerpiece of the program moving forward.</p>
<p class="p2">Growing up in Millville, Livingston’s path to Division I basketball began when she was around five years old. At first, basketball was just something fun to do, alongside dance, which she participated in for years.</p>
<p class="p2">It wasn’t until eighth grade she decided basketball was her true calling. By high school, she was making waves at Ridgeline High School, where she helped lead her team to two 4A state championships.</p>
<p class="p2">Livingston was named first-team all-state three years in a row, showcasing her ability to rise to the occasion against top competition. In her senior year, Ridgeline was ranked No. 28 in the nation, according to MaxPreps, and she capped off her high school career with a game-leading performance in the state championship game, dropping 20 points to secure the title.</p>
<p class="p2">Livingston received interest from multiple programs, but her college decision ultimately kept her close to home. Her initial recruitment process took a turn when Brooks was hired at Utah State. Upon watching her film, Brooks knew he had to bring her into the fold.</p>
<div id="attachment_22134386" style="width: 410px" class="wp-caption alignnone"> <div class="media-credit-container alignnone" style="max-width: 410px">
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-22134386" class="size-medium wp-image-22134386" src="https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20241025_wbballvswestminister-7-400x600.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="600" srcset="https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20241025_wbballvswestminister-7-400x600.jpg 400w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20241025_wbballvswestminister-7-667x1000.jpg 667w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20241025_wbballvswestminister-7-200x300.jpg 200w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20241025_wbballvswestminister-7-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20241025_wbballvswestminister-7-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20241025_wbballvswestminister-7-335x503.jpg 335w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20241025_wbballvswestminister-7-1050x1575.jpg 1050w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20241025_wbballvswestminister-7-scaled.jpg 1706w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /><span class="media-credit">JACK LEWIS BURTON</span> </div>
<p id="caption-attachment-22134386" class="wp-caption-text">Elise Livingston, 12, darts toward the hoop at the Dee Glen Smith Spectrum on Oct. 25.</p></div>
<p class="p2">“When I first got the job here, I watched her film, and I couldn’t believe she didn’t have an offer here,” Brooks said. “I just thought, ‘Oh my goodness, how did this kid not get an offer here?’ So, we immediately got to talking, and she wanted to come here.”</p>
<p class="p2">Livingston, who had already committed to another school, recommitted to Utah State under Brooks. The decision for her was an easy one — she wanted to stay in her hometown, play in front of her family and friends and contribute to building a winning culture at Utah State.</p>
<p class="p2">Like any first-year player transitioning to the collegiate level, Livingston has faced challenges. The game is faster, and mistakes are more costly.</p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“One of the biggest challenges is just the speed,” Livingston said. “You think you’re open, and you’re not open. Your decision-making has to be a lot quicker.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Livingston admitted she has struggled at times with turnovers and has had trouble finding a rhythm in some games. However, as the season has progressed, she’s been able to find her footing in the college game.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Livingston has played in all 26 games so far and averaged 6.1 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game. In conference play, she’s increased her scoring and rebounding numbers, demonstrating her ability to step up against tougher competition.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Her teammates and coaches have taken notice of her impact both on and off the court. Guard Mia Tarver described her as a dominant first-year student who works hard and is a leader in and out of the basketball setting. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“She’s really sweet, so she’s really fun to be around — very goofy,” Tarver said. “So, I enjoy being her teammate.” </span><span data-ccp-props="{"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Something Brooks has noticed being around Livingston is her relentless drive to improve. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span></p>
<div id="attachment_22134373" style="width: 410px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-22134373" class="size-medium wp-image-22134373" src="https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20241025_wbballvswestminister-10-400x600.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="600" srcset="https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20241025_wbballvswestminister-10-400x600.jpg 400w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20241025_wbballvswestminister-10-667x1000.jpg 667w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20241025_wbballvswestminister-10-200x300.jpg 200w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20241025_wbballvswestminister-10-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20241025_wbballvswestminister-10-scaled.jpg 1707w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /><p id="caption-attachment-22134373" class="wp-caption-text">Elise Livingston, 12, is challenged by a Westminister player at the Dee Glen Smith Spectrum on Oct. 25.</p></div>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“She’s a winner. She works her butt off. She does everything I ask her to do,” Brooks said. “She’s going to be a four-year player here, and she’s the cornerstone of our program.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Perhaps the greatest challenge in Livingston’s college transition has been adjusting to the team’s struggles just months after reaching the pinnacle of Utah high school basketball.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“I’m not really used to losing, but every loss is just — you learn from it and get better,” Livingston said. “You just have to grind through it, and hopefully, something good will come.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">With the Mountain West Conference tournament on the horizon, Livingston and her teammates are gearing up for the most important stretch of the season. Rather than dwelling on their record, they are focused on what they can control — continuing to develop their game.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“We just need to focus on ourselves — on what we need to do,” Livingston said. “We’ve obviously competed with every team in the conference, we just haven’t got it done. We’re just doing the best we can to focus on what we need to do to improve our weak areas.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Whether it’s her ability to hit clutch shots, push the tempo or bring energy to every game, Livingston is setting the foundation for what could be a prolific collegiate career. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://usustatesman.com/livingston-a-local-legend/">Livingston: Local legend</a> appeared first on <a href="https://usustatesman.com">The Utah Statesman</a>.</p>
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<title>Remembering an Aggie: Jon Wickizer</title>
<link>https://usustatesman.com/remembering-an-aggie-jon-wickizer/</link>
<comments>https://usustatesman.com/remembering-an-aggie-jon-wickizer/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Gabriella Kozic]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 Feb 2025 13:47:28 +0000</pubDate>
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<description><![CDATA[<p>The Utah State University community mourns the unexpected passing of Jon Wickizer, who died on Jan. 29 at age 51.…</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://usustatesman.com/remembering-an-aggie-jon-wickizer/">Remembering an Aggie: Jon Wickizer</a> appeared first on <a href="https://usustatesman.com">The Utah Statesman</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="p1">The Utah State University community mourns the unexpected passing of Jon Wickizer, who died on Jan. 29 at age 51. A native of Woods Cross, Wickizer’s legacy is deeply etched in USU’s basketball history and extends into his personal life.</p>
<p class="p2">Wickizer attended Woods Cross High School, where he distinguished himself as a formidable basketball player. According to the USU Athletics website, his exceptional performance on the court earned him first-team all-state honors from The Salt Lake Tribune, averaging 17.3 points and 9.2 rebounds per game his senior year. These achievements paved the way for his recruitment to Utah State.</p>
<p class="p2">Joining the Aggies in 1992 as a forward, Wickizer made an immediate impact. As a freshman, he earned a spot on the Big West Conference All-Freshman Team, showcasing his potential early on. Over his four-year tenure from 1992 to 1996, Wickizer played 113 games, starting 73. He accumulated 690 points and 380 rebounds, averaging 6.1 points and 3.3 rebounds per game. His field goal percentage stood at an impressive 54.2 percent, and he was notably efficient from beyond the arc, shooting 39.5 percent from three-point range, according to the USU Athletics website.</p>
<p class="p2">In the 1994-95 season, his junior year, Wickizer played a pivotal role in leading the Aggies to a 21-8 record and an appearance in the National Invitation Tournament. His contributions were instrumental to the team’s success, underscoring his value as a player.</p>
<p class="p2">According to the athletics website, during his senior year, 1995-96, Wickizer was one of only three players to start all 33 games, averaging 31.7 minutes per game. He ranked fifth on the team in both scoring and rebounding, averaging 8.3 points and 4.1 rebounds per game. A highlight of his senior season was a standout performance against Cal State Fullerton on Jan. 25, 1996, when he scored a career-high 24 points on 8-of-11 shooting, including 2-of-2 from three-point range, along with six rebounds, three assists and three steals.</p>
<p class="p2">After graduating from USU in 1997 with a bachelor’s in occupational health, Wickizer continued to support his alma mater. According to Utah State TODAY, in 2009, he and his brother Nate Wickizer — also a former USU basketball player — donated $100,000 to USU Athletics. This contribution facilitated the renovation and expansion of off-court facilities at the Dee Glen Smith Spectrum, benefitting the men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball teams.</p>
<p class="p2">Professionally, Wickizer worked for Cache Valley Electric and lived in Davis County, with his wife Tera and their five children: Katelyn, Kennady, River, Kwincy-Bell and Rock, according to Utah State TODAY.</p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Jon Wickizer’s legacy is multifaceted. On the court, he is remembered as a dedicated and skilled player who made significant contributions to USU’s basketball program. Off the court, his generosity and commitment to the university left a lasting impact, particularly through the enhanced facilities that continue to benefit student-athletes.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">USU Men’s Basketball expressed their condolences on social media, stating “All of Aggie Nation’s hearts are with the Wickizer family as we mourn the loss of former Utah State player Jon Wickizer.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">To assist with funeral and living expenses during this difficult time, the Wickizer family has established a GoFundMe account to help with funeral and living expenses.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Wickizer’s influence on the USU community and beyond will be felt for years to come. He leaves behind a legacy of athletic excellence, generosity and dedication to family and community.</span></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://usustatesman.com/remembering-an-aggie-jon-wickizer/">Remembering an Aggie: Jon Wickizer</a> appeared first on <a href="https://usustatesman.com">The Utah Statesman</a>.</p>
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<title>UC San Diego Breaks Aggie Winning Streak</title>
<link>https://usustatesman.com/uc-san-diego-breaks-aggie-winning-streak/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wyatt Merchant]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 18 Dec 2024 07:41:51 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Basketball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Men's Basketball]]></category>
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<guid isPermaLink="false">https://usustatesman.com/?p=22132644</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>USU Mens Basketball loose for the first time this season against the UC San Diego Tritons, 75-73.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://usustatesman.com/uc-san-diego-breaks-aggie-winning-streak/">UC San Diego Breaks Aggie Winning Streak</a> appeared first on <a href="https://usustatesman.com">The Utah Statesman</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>USU Mens Basketball loose for the first time this season against the UC San Diego Tritons, 75-73.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://usustatesman.com/uc-san-diego-breaks-aggie-winning-streak/">UC San Diego Breaks Aggie Winning Streak</a> appeared first on <a href="https://usustatesman.com">The Utah Statesman</a>.</p>
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<title>Falslev records first career double-double, leads Aggies to victory over Iowa</title>
<link>https://usustatesman.com/falslev-records-first-career-double-double-leads-aggies-to-victory-over-iowa/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mark Greenwood]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Sat, 23 Nov 2024 20:22:15 +0000</pubDate>
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<category><![CDATA[jerrod calhoun]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mason Falslev]]></category>
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<guid isPermaLink="false">https://usustatesman.com/?p=22132336</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>Utah State men’s basketball faced their toughest test of the season on Friday night, taking on Iowa in the NABC…</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://usustatesman.com/falslev-records-first-career-double-double-leads-aggies-to-victory-over-iowa/">Falslev records first career double-double, leads Aggies to victory over Iowa</a> appeared first on <a href="https://usustatesman.com">The Utah Statesman</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Utah State men’s basketball faced their toughest test of the season on Friday night, taking on Iowa in the NABC Hall of Fame Classic. After a back-and-forth battle, the Aggies picked up their fifth win to stay undefeated and notch a quality non-conference win. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">USU was led by guard Mason Falslev, who scored a career-high tying 25 points and 12 rebounds to record his first career double-double. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“You win games ugly early, so it’s better to win than lose,” said head coach Jerrod Calhoun after the game. “Falslev was certainly unbelievable in huge moments. Iowa won a ton of games, so this will be a good ‘quad one’ win hopefully.”</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The first half was a dogfight for both sides. Each team had plenty of opportunities to grab a commanding lead, but a plethora of missed opportunities held them back. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Iowa started the game 0-9 from three before connecting on two of their last four before the half. Utah State struggled to put the ball through the net, shooting just 36% from the floor in the first half. They also had an uncharacteristic eight turnovers and 12 fouls.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Hawkeyes made up for their first-half struggles from beyond the arc with their size inside. Iowa had 24 points in the paint in the first half and controlled the paint on the defensive end. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A key factor in the Aggies’ poor first-half shooting was the Hawkeye’s presence down low. Utah State had just 16 points in the paint in the first half and struggled to finish near the rim.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The two teams spent much of the half trading baskets, with the lead going back and forth. Despite their sloppy play, the Aggies led for much of the half but found themselves down four at the break, 37-33. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The second half started similarly to the first, with the Hawkeyes staying in front during the early goings. The Aggies were able to hang around during the second half, only trailing by as much as six. The first 30 minutes of the game were a seesaw battle that saw seven lead changes and seven ties. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With just over 12 minutes left in the game, Utah State found themselves down four and fighting to stay in it. The dual guard threat of Falslev and Ian Martinez then rattled off nine unanswered points for the Aggies, catapulting them into a five-point lead. The Hawkeyes responded by cutting the lead to one before Falslev scored five straight to extend the USU lead. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“We adapted. And like coach said, we’ve got to find a way to win,” Falslev said after the game. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Aggies, led by Falslev, maintained their distance through the rest of the half to pull away and pick up a big neutral site win. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After their first half was derailed by poor shooting, Utah State bounced back and shot 56% from the field in the second half to pull away. For the Hawkeyes, it was more of the same. After connecting on 2-13, Iowa could only improve to 3-13 in the second half. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Just inching out on shooters, trying to keep people in front. A big part of their offense is 3-point shooting, so you have to really be able to guard the ball to take the three away,” Calhoun said. “Contesting without fouling, which is difficult in these games … I give our guys a lot of credit.”</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Aggies will look to continue their winning streak next week as they travel to Orlando, Florida, to play in the NIT Season Tip-Off. They will face the St. Bonaventure Bonnies on Thanksgiving Day at 3:30 p.m. </span></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://usustatesman.com/falslev-records-first-career-double-double-leads-aggies-to-victory-over-iowa/">Falslev records first career double-double, leads Aggies to victory over Iowa</a> appeared first on <a href="https://usustatesman.com">The Utah Statesman</a>.</p>
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<title>Jump shots with Jerrod: USU’s new men’s basketball head coach</title>
<link>https://usustatesman.com/jump-shots-with-jerrod-usus-new-mens-basketball-head-coach/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mark Greenwood]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Mon, 04 Nov 2024 13:20:25 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[All]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Basketball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Men's Basketball]]></category>
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<category><![CDATA[head coach Jerrod Calhoun]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[jerrod calhoun]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Logan]]></category>
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<guid isPermaLink="false">https://usustatesman.com/?p=22131667</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>Utah State men’s basketball has been the pride and joy of Utah State athletics over the last several years. This…</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://usustatesman.com/jump-shots-with-jerrod-usus-new-mens-basketball-head-coach/">Jump shots with Jerrod: USU’s new men’s basketball head coach</a> appeared first on <a href="https://usustatesman.com">The Utah Statesman</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="p1"><span class="s1">U</span><span class="s1">tah State men’s basketball has been the pride and joy of Utah State athletics over the last several years. This is impressive considering Utah State basketball has gone through four head coaches in the last five seasons. After Craig Smith left to be the head coach at the University of Utah in 2021, Ryan Odom came to town as his replacement. After just two short seasons, Odom left for VCU and Danny Sprinkle was brought in. In an even shorter stint, Sprinkle was hired at Washington this offseason after just one season in Logan. </span></p>
<p class="p2"><span class="s1">With the exit of Sprinkle, the head coach search ramped up for the Aggies for the second time in as many seasons. After a search that has become all too familiar for the USU athletic department, Jerrod Calhoun was hired on March 30, 2024. </span></p>
<p class="p2"><span class="s1">“Jerrod Calhoun embodies all the qualities we are looking for as the next leader of our men’s basketball program,” said Utah State Director of Athletics Diana Sabau at the time of his hire. “He is energetic, enthusiastic, a player’s coach and is motivated to keep our current student-athletes in Logan. He is a formidable recruiter, an exceptional motivator and has a keen understanding of the competitive nature of NIL and will be a great partner in growing the Blue A Collective.” </span></p>
<p class="p2"><span class="s1">Calhoun came to Logan after spending the previous seven season as the head basketball coach at Youngstown State in Youngstown, Ohio. In his last two season with the YSU Penguins, Calhoun led the team to back-to-back 20-win seasons for the first time in their Division I history, a regular season Horizon League championship and a postseason appearance in the National Invitation Tournament. </span></p>
<p class="p2"><span class="s1">Calhoun looks to continue his upward trend while leading a USU basketball program that’s become familiar with winning teams and postseason appearances in recent years. Despite spending his last seven seasons in Ohio, the Utah State program is not entirely foreign to Calhoun. </span></p>
<p class="p2"><span class="s1">“I probably watched over half of their games last year, so I knew the roster inside and out. I had followed Utah State basketball from afar for a number of years. I love what Stew Morrill used to run with the two-guard series, I loved a lot of the actions Craig Smith and Ryan Odom ran. I really studied those guys from a basketball standpoint,” Calhoun said in an interview with The Utah Statesman. “Had great respect for Utah State in general and the history that they’ve had for a long, long time. And those are the programs that you study and you can learn a ton from. I just love the way they played over the years.” </span></p>
<p class="p2"><span class="s1">That history at Utah State has not come without some turbulence, especially from the head coaching perspective. Three head coaches in three years is not ideal for any program and certainly takes its toll. On Calhoun’s first game in the Spectrum in an exhibition game against Weber State in mid-October, he was initially denied entrance by the security guard who didn’t know who he was. </span></p>
<p class="p2"><span class="s1">“I was walking in the building today, and the security lady didn’t know who I was. She said, ‘Who are you?’ And I said, ‘I’m the head coach, and I’ve got to get into the Spectrum,” Calhoun said after the game. </span></p>
<p class="p2"><span class="s1">Luckily for the Aggies, the constant head coaching turnover has been a result of resounding success on the court and continual postseason play. In the last four seasons, Utah State has won two conference championships and made the NCAA Tournament three times and the NIT once. The winning culture that has been created at Utah State brings some natural pressure to Calhoun in his first year. Even with the pressure and the expectations, Calhoun is ready for the challenge. </span></p>
<p class="p2"><span class="s1">“I think you have to want those expectations. You have to approach it every day with a sense of urgency,” Calhoun said. “Whether it’s in recruiting, whether it’s in fundraising, whether it’s time with your players, your practices, there has to be a real level of commitment across the board from the entire coaching staff, the entire organization.” </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">The expectation and pressure to win will only increase in the coming years, with Utah State’s move to the PAC-12 coming in 2026. A conference that has historically been football-focused is now shaping up to be one of the stronger basketball conferences in the country with perennial NCAA Tournament teams such as San Diego State, Utah State and Gonzaga. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“I think it’s exciting. It keeps us on the west coast — I think it really helps our fan base be able to watch the games and travel to games and our [player’s] parents,” Calhoun said. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Calhoun has a big task ahead of him in preparing to enter the PAC-12, but he knows what needs to be accomplished long term. For the short term, he is just excited to get settled in the valley and get acquainted with the university. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“I think our campus is one of the most beautiful campuses in the entire country — really, just the culture, the people are so nice and really go out of their way to make you feel welcome. It’s one of the friendliest places I’ve ever been,” Calhoun said. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">The Calhoun family consists of Jerrod, his wife Sarah, their son Jordan and their daughters Kennedy, Kendall and Quinn. Calhoun and his wife live in the valley with their daughters while their older son no longer lives at home. Despite the unknowns of moving, Calhoun and his family have enjoyed their newfound home in Cache Valley.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“I just fell in love with Logan when I came out for the in-person interview. I thought it was just a beautiful place, and my family and I have got adjusted so well,” Calhoun said.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">In addition to the beautiful views, part of Calhoun’s excitement for the challenge of being the new Aggie head coach is the excitement that he can feel from the community. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“They really love basketball here, and that was a big part of me really wanting this job,” Calhoun said. “We have one of the elite fan bases in the country. I think there’s a real care factor. Our community really rallies around all the teams. The environment that’s created at every sporting event and the support amongst all the coaches — I would say it’s just top notch.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Calhoun will get his first taste of regular season basketball in the Spectrum and the love of Aggie hoops as Utah State welcomes Alcorn State to Logan on Wednesday night. The Aggie faithful will have a chance to get their first regular season look at their new head coach as well. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">For those dedicated fans, Wednesday’s game brings another new season, yet another new coach, another new team and hopefully, another winning season crowned by another postseason appearance. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://usustatesman.com/jump-shots-with-jerrod-usus-new-mens-basketball-head-coach/">Jump shots with Jerrod: USU’s new men’s basketball head coach</a> appeared first on <a href="https://usustatesman.com">The Utah Statesman</a>.</p>
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<title>On the court for CAPSA</title>
<link>https://usustatesman.com/on-the-court-for-capsa/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mark Greenwood]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Sat, 19 Oct 2024 20:11:54 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[All]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Basketball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Men's Basketball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[calhoun]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[CAPSA]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[charity]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[exhibition]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[head coach Jerrod Calhoun]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Spectrum]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[USU Aggies]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[USU basketball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[USU men's basketball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Weber State]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[weber state wildcats]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Wildcats]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://usustatesman.com/?p=22131131</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>Utah State men’s basketball was back in action at the Dee Glen Smith Spectrum Friday night with a convincing 85-66…</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://usustatesman.com/on-the-court-for-capsa/">On the court for CAPSA</a> appeared first on <a href="https://usustatesman.com">The Utah Statesman</a>.</p>
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<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Utah State men’s basketball was back in action at the Dee Glen Smith Spectrum Friday night with a convincing 85-66 exhibition win over in-state opponent Weber State. Friday’s game was a charity exhibition game, with net proceeds from the night going to CAPSA, a domestic abuse treatment center in Logan. </span></p>
<blockquote class="wp-embedded-content" data-secret="0H8vRt9ckC"><p><a href="https://usustatesman.com/usu-mens-basketball-wins-first-game-back-at-the-spectrum/">USU Mens Basketball Wins Exhibition Game Against Weber</a></p></blockquote>
<p><iframe loading="lazy" class="wp-embedded-content" sandbox="allow-scripts" security="restricted" title="“USU Mens Basketball Wins Exhibition Game Against Weber” — The Utah Statesman" src="https://usustatesman.com/usu-mens-basketball-wins-first-game-back-at-the-spectrum/embed/#?secret=mWkEo4r4i1#?secret=0H8vRt9ckC" data-secret="0H8vRt9ckC" width="600" height="338" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I thought at times we were really good, and at times we’re a little discombobulated,” said head coach Jerrod Calhoun. “This game was all about learning for everybody … a rehearsal for all of us, I think.”</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Aggies previewed their 2024 squad for the first time in front of their home crowd, but it was not the first time the team has played together. USU had a previous preseason trip to Europe over the summer, where they won all three games they played. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Weber State took control of the game and jumped out to an early lead powered by three straight 3-pointers. After a sluggish start, the Aggies found their footing and ripped off a 21-4 run through the middle of the first half to go up 26-13. Utah State kept their foot on the pedal and took a 42-28 lead into the half.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Aggies didn’t let up in the second half. They rode their tight defense and fast-paced offense to a dominating victory, leading by as much as 27 late in the half. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Utah State struggled shooting the ball early in the first half but relied on their stingy defense to keep the game close. Once the offense caught up, the Aggies quickly put the game out of reach.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Yeah, it’s a crazy defense. I think it’s very hard to play against, and I think we’re going to catch a lot of teams off guard,” said transfer guard Drake Allen. “We’re still learning, so it’s not fully there, but I feel like we did a good job tonight.”</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Allen is in his first year with USU after spending the last two seasons at Utah Valley University and Southern Utah University. Allen had 12 points in his Aggie debut and led the team with six assists. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Aggies were led by graduate guard Ian Martinez who totaled 17 points and three rebounds. Martinez, one of three returning starters from Utah State’s 2023 championship squad, was named to the preseason All-Mountain West team earlier this week. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">While Allen and Martinez led the charge in the win, Utah State showed off their ability to produce up and down the roster. Four Aggies players ended with double-digit points, and 12 of the 13 players who checked into the game scored points.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“We have 12 guys that can make an impact on the floor … we’re very deep, and we all trust each other to go out there and make plays,” said Allen. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Part of Utah State’s balanced scoring attack came from its fast-paced offense and ability to get the ball up the floor quickly. The Aggies finished the night with 21 points from fast breaks and found ways to push the ball up the court in a hurry all game. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“The hardest thing to guard in basketball is a team that can run. And to me, there’s a million ways you can do that,” said Calhoun after the game. “We want to play with pace … we want to be the fastest-paced team in the league.”</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Utah State was picked this week to finish sixth in the Mountain West Conference by conference media despite returning three starters from their Mountain West championship team just a year ago. With a new head coach and more than one unknown coming into the year, the Aggies will yet again look to prove everyone wrong in the new season. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Utah State will have a closed scrimmage against Oregon on Sunday before officially tipping off their season on November 6 at the Dee Glen Smith Spectrum. </span></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://usustatesman.com/on-the-court-for-capsa/">On the court for CAPSA</a> appeared first on <a href="https://usustatesman.com">The Utah Statesman</a>.</p>
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<title>The Aggies couldn’t climb the Mountaineers</title>
<link>https://usustatesman.com/the-aggies-couldnt-climb-the-mountaineers/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Brian Kirk]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 19 Dec 2023 05:56:50 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Basketball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Women's Basketball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[cheyenne stubbs]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kayla Ard]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[USU basketball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[USU women's basketball]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://usustatesman.com/?p=22127406</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>This evening at the Dee Glen Smith Spectrum the Utah State Aggies clashed against the Western Colorado Mountaineers in a…</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://usustatesman.com/the-aggies-couldnt-climb-the-mountaineers/">The Aggies couldn’t climb the Mountaineers</a> appeared first on <a href="https://usustatesman.com">The Utah Statesman</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This evening at the Dee Glen Smith Spectrum the Utah State Aggies clashed against the Western Colorado Mountaineers in a 51-49 loss for the Aggies that came down to a game-winning three. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Aggies started Ivory Finley, Cheyenne Stubbs, Macy Smith, Skye Miller and Tiairra Hill-Brown.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Mountaineers started Ivey Schmidt, Alyssa Eckroth, Jayda Maves, Rachel Coclman and Brooklyn Seymour.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Aggies won the tip-off and took control early as Stubbs scored a deep three-point shot to open up the scoring.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Western Colorado defense was strong as the Aggies turned the ball over leading to the Mountaineers capitalizing on two buckets. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Mountaineers went on a 6-0 run to finish out the opening quarter with a lead of 10-13 over the Aggies. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Mountaineers came into the second quarter playing aggressive defense as Seymour scored a breakaway from a steal, extending their lead to 15-10. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With 6:22 left to play in the first, Stubbs scored a three-pointer to spark some crucial offense. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Tañedo added a three-pointer of her own at the 1:32 mark to break a two-minute scoring drought for the Aggies. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The half ended with a scoreline of 26-18 in favor of the Mountaineers. The Aggies shot 21% from the field, and 24% from three. The Mountaineers were perfect from the free throw line compared to the Aggies 50 percent. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">USU’s Smith opened the third quarter with a quick three-pointer to bring the crowd into the game. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Mountaineers went on a 6-0 run extending their lead to 29-21.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Aggies coach Kayla Ard called a timeout and made adjustments that saw a taller group take the court.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Miller broke the Mountaineer scoring run with a layup. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">USU began playing a high-pressure double-team defense that made the Mountaineers turn the ball over a total of three times before forcing Mountaineers coach Adam Jacobson to call his own time out.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Miller capitalized on a breakaway chance but was fouled on her way to the rim. Miller converted both free throws, sparking a 6-0 run. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Miller wasn’t finished yet as she came up with a crucial block that prevented the mountaineers from scoring a layup. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Aggies cut the score deficit to 39-37 as the horn sounded ending the third quarter. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">At the start of the fourth quarter, Finley leveled the scoreline with a jump shot.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Stubbs continued her heat check as she scored a layup at the 6:32 mark to give the Aggies the lead for the first time since the first quarter. Stubbs would end the night with 16 leading her team. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Smith extended the lead for USU with a solo drive through the Mountaineer defense. This forced Jacobson to use another timeout. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hill-Brown scored a hard bucket in the paint and drew a foul. She converted the free throw extending the Aggies lead to 49-43. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Mountaineers converted two free throws after a foul on the Hill-Brown. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Rachel Cockman scored a three-pointer to pull the Mountaineers back within one point with 45 seconds left. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Mountaineer Jayda Naves scored a three-pointer with only three seconds left. This would be the game-winner as Stubbs could not convert a layup at the end of regulation.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Our kids were playing hard,” Ard said. “We need to be locked in from the jump.” </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ard added that the team needs to put together a full 40 minutes in order to be successful and that she believes they can.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Aggies will be back in action against the UNLV Rebels, on Saturday, Dec. 30. </span></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://usustatesman.com/the-aggies-couldnt-climb-the-mountaineers/">The Aggies couldn’t climb the Mountaineers</a> appeared first on <a href="https://usustatesman.com">The Utah Statesman</a>.</p>
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<title>Ice cream is better with Sprinkles and so is USU</title>
<link>https://usustatesman.com/ice-cream-is-better-with-sprinkles-and-so-is-usu/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Rylan Bean]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Mon, 04 Dec 2023 14:00:31 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[All]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Basketball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Men's Basketball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Danny Sprinkle]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[NCAA Basketball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[USU basketball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[USU men's basketball]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://usustatesman.com/?p=22127145</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>Every time the Utah State men’s basketball team scores 80 or more points in a home game, everyone in attendance…</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://usustatesman.com/ice-cream-is-better-with-sprinkles-and-so-is-usu/">Ice cream is better with Sprinkles and so is USU</a> appeared first on <a href="https://usustatesman.com">The Utah Statesman</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Every time the Utah State men’s basketball team scores 80 or more points in a home game, everyone in attendance gets a free scoop of ice cream from Culver’s. The team has eclipsed the 80-point mark in their first two home games, which are also the first home games for the newly appointed head coach Danny Sprinkle. The USU HURD caught on quickly and the new tradition of “Ice Cream with Sprinkles” was born. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Sprinkle was announced as the 29th coach in USU’s history this April replacing Ryan Odom. Sprinkle is a native of Montana through and through. His dad was born in Great Falls, Montana and his mom is in Butte. Sprinkle himself grew up in Helena, Montana where he attended high school. Sprinkle was a multi-sport athlete participating in basketball, football and track. Ultimately, he went on to play Division I basketball for Montana State University. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>“I was very fortunate at Montana State, you know, they kept their word on their scholarship offer. And so I went there for basketball and you know, had the best four years I could ever ask for,” Sprinkle said.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<div id="attachment_22127149" style="width: 219px" class="wp-caption alignright"> <div class="media-credit-container alignright" style="max-width: 219px">
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-22127149" class="size-medium wp-image-22127149" src="https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/dannysprinkle-2-209x600.jpg" alt="" width="209" height="600" srcset="https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/dannysprinkle-2-209x600.jpg 209w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/dannysprinkle-2-348x1000.jpg 348w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/dannysprinkle-2-104x300.jpg 104w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/dannysprinkle-2-535x1536.jpg 535w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/dannysprinkle-2-335x962.jpg 335w, https://usustatesman.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/dannysprinkle-2.jpg 713w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 209px) 100vw, 209px" /><span class="media-credit">Heidi Bingham</span> </div>
<p id="caption-attachment-22127149" class="wp-caption-text">Danny Sprinkle coaches his team on the sidelines during the game against the South Dakota Mines on Nov. 6.</p></div>
<p>After his four years at MSU, coach Sprinkle got into coaching, getting his first job at Cal State Northridge and then following up at Cal State Fullerton. After six years at CSF, he had the opportunity to return to his alma mater at Montana State, this time as their head coach. During his time at Montana, he led the team to back-to-back NCAA tournament appearances and Big Sky Championships.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>“It was awesome. I mean, it was absolutely awesome. I mean, there weren’t too many jobs that were going to lure me out of there. And, you know, I mean, the team that we would have had coming back, it’s easy to say but we would have won it again,” Sprinkle said. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Coming to USU is an opportunity that coach Sprinkle is excited about, but the transition was a tough one for him and his staff. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>“I moved down here with the staff and it was so busy because we had to sign an entire roster and then all of a sudden by the time we finally got our last piece, which was Ian Martinez, we just finished camp, and we were right into summer practice with our team. And so there was absolutely no break until mid-August, you know, and really, we only had about a week there before we had to come back for fall semester,” Sprinkle said. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Despite the transition, Sprinkle is excited about USU basketball and continuing the traditions of success here in Logan. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>“Cache Valley’s been awesome. I mean, the support you get here and how important you know, all of you know Aggie sports is awesome. That’s cool. And the people are about as friendly as any place in the world,” Sprinkle said. “The best thing about our fan base is they know good basketball, so you can’t cheat the game.”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Being true to the game is something coach Sprinkle prides himself on and is what he wants to do to continue the success of Aggie basketball. When talking about his plan to be successful, Sprinkle kept it simple.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>“Offensively, play fast, but move the ball. You know, we don’t need to be taking crazy shots, take care of the basketball. And then defensively, we got to be tough, like we got to be gritty. Well, if there’s a loose ball, like we got to have three, four guys on the floor, you know, and that’s what Utah State fans expect. And you know, and that’s why they’ve had success for so long — obviously they’ve had great players but those great players, you know, they were disciplined and tough and played the right way.”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Coach Sprinkle has had a major impact on players throughout his tenure as a coach and the same can be said for one of USU’s leading scorers, Great Osobor. He is a junior from Bradford, England who spent his first two years playing for Sprinkle at Montana State and transferred when coach Sprinkle got the job here in Logan. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>“It was an easy decision for me; once I left I was like, ‘If I’m leaving Montana State, I’m going to Utah State,’” Osobor said. The primary reason is his respect and relationship with Sprinkle. “He’s really invested in this and he cares, he really cares. Coaches might say they care or tell people they care and you can see it through his actions and through his passion. Every single game he makes you want to run through a wall for him.” <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>So far what both Osobor and Sprinkle have said has been true with the Aggies off to a hot start going 7-1 and coming off a midseason tournament championship at the Cayman Islands Classic.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The Danny Sprinkle era is just beginning in Logan. Through coach Sprinkle, his staff and team, USU basketball fans continue to see a high level of success and continue to keep Aggie basketball alive and well. Aggie Nation look out, because there are many more nights of Ice Cream with Sprinkles to come. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://usustatesman.com/ice-cream-is-better-with-sprinkles-and-so-is-usu/">Ice cream is better with Sprinkles and so is USU</a> appeared first on <a href="https://usustatesman.com">The Utah Statesman</a>.</p>
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<title>USU VS Montana State Basketball</title>
<link>https://usustatesman.com/usu-vs-montana-state-basketball/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wyatt Merchant]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Sat, 04 Nov 2023 07:33:45 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Basketball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Gallery]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Men's Basketball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Aggie basketball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Aggie men's basketball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Aggie sports]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Light the A blue]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[USU basketball]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://usustatesman.com/?p=22126607</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>USU wins against Montana State, 73 to 64.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://usustatesman.com/usu-vs-montana-state-basketball/">USU VS Montana State Basketball</a> appeared first on <a href="https://usustatesman.com">The Utah Statesman</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>USU wins against Montana State, 73 to 64.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://usustatesman.com/usu-vs-montana-state-basketball/">USU VS Montana State Basketball</a> appeared first on <a href="https://usustatesman.com">The Utah Statesman</a>.</p>
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