Pac-12 Basketball: Way-Too-Early Pac-12 Power Rankings

7) Utah Utes

2016-2017 Record: 20-11 (11-7, 4^th Pac-12)

Head Coach: Larry Krystkowiak

Departures: Kyle Kuzma, Lorenzo Bonam, Devon Daniels, JoJo Zamora, Gabe Bealer

Returning Players: David Collette, Sedrick Barefield, Tyler Rawson, Parker Van Dyke, Jayce Johnson

Key Additions: Justin Bibbins (Transfer, Long Beach State), Chris Seeley (Redshirt Freshman), Donnie Tillman, Christian PoPoola

Analysis:

There is no doubt that Utah loses a lot of talent this season, specifically Kyle Kuzma and Lorenzo Bonam. Kuzma, who averaged 16.4 points, 9.3 rebound, and 2.4 assists, was a big reason for the 4th place finish last season.

Despite these losses, however, the Utes still return some solid talent, with David Collette and Sedrick Barefield both coming back. Collette, who was second on the team in scoring, will have the tough task of replacing Kuzma as the team’s best big man.

The key to Utah’s success may be the play of grad transfer Justin Bibbons, who played for Long Beach State last season. The small guard is the favorite to start at point guard, where he has been a great distributor for the 49ers. Along with Bibbons, the Utes will have three freshmen looking to make an immediate impact.

While this is not the most talented roster, and there certainly could be an argument for teams like Arizona State and Colorado to jump the Utes, Larry Krystkowiak is known for getting the most out of his players.