The Utah Runnin’ Utes are actively preparing for next season while navigating the current campaign, which has seen them lose seven of their eight conference games. Head coach Alex Jensen is committed to ending the season on a positive note but is also focused on enhancing the roster for the upcoming 2025-26 season. As Jensen enters his second year at the helm of his alma mater, the team’s general manager, Wes Wilcox, is already evaluating the squad’s needs for the 2026-27 roster.
Jensen emphasizes the importance of having a general manager, stating, “Wes has been invaluable for us. He has those conversations and leads that charge, and we’re part of those discussions at the same time as trying to win the next game.” With the increasing professionalization of college sports, including the implications of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals and revenue sharing, the dynamics of player recruitment have shifted considerably.
As the transfer portal becomes a prominent feature in roster management, Jensen acknowledges the necessity of dedicated personnel to oversee recruitment efforts. “You got to have somebody dedicated to that, leading that charge instead of the coaches,” he said. This season, Jensen is not only focused on the current players but also strategizing for the future. He noted that last year, he was still finalizing his coaching staff when the transfer portal opened, making it challenging to secure new talent.
The Utes face a pivotal time as they prepare for their match against Arizona State on March 15, 2024. Both teams are desperate for a victory, with Utah currently struggling at the bottom of the conference standings. Jensen is aware of the need to perform better, especially defensively, as he looks to improve the team’s performance in the final stretch of the season.
Jensen’s approach to roster composition reflects a balance between experienced players and fresh talent. He commented on the success seen by other teams that focus on veteran players, while also recognizing the potential of younger recruits. “I think it’d be a combination of it, and I think more so than that, you’re trying to find the core characteristics of a player you want and they’ve got to want to be here,” Jensen added.
As Utah prepares to face Arizona State, they aim to leverage their practice improvements. Jensen remarked on the importance of understanding individual roles within the team. “It’s a learning process, a maturing process,” he noted, reflecting on the challenges of integrating a new roster.
With just ten regular-season games left, the Utes are determined to make a mark before transitioning into a crucial offseason. The upcoming matches against No. 11 Kansas and No. 8 Houston will be significant tests for the team, but Jensen believes that focusing on defense will be key to their success.
“The Sun Devils, I think they’re dangerous. They’re explosive. They can score a lot of points,” Jensen said, recognizing the challenges posed by upcoming opponents. He hopes that strong defensive performance will translate into offensive opportunities, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and strategy in each game.
As Utah continues to navigate its challenging season, the dual focus on immediate performance and future roster improvements will be essential in shaping the program’s trajectory. The leadership of Jensen and Wilcox will play a crucial role in the Utes’ efforts to build a competitive team capable of thriving in the Big 12 Conference.
