Utah’s Gabe Madsen set a new program record for 3-pointers made, scoring 24 points in the Utes’ 74-67 victory over No. 17 Kansas on Saturday night. This impressive feat marks a significant milestone in Madsen’s career and highlights his crucial role in the team’s success.
With just 1:58 remaining, Madsen sank his fifth 3-pointer, bringing his career total to 288, thus surpassing the previous record held by Nick Jacobson. To seal the win, he also converted two free throws with 26 seconds left on the clock.
The Utes (14-11, 6-8 Big 12) maintained their lead throughout the game, although Kansas managed to tie it at 60 before Utah finished strong in the closing moments.
For Kansas (17-8, 8-6), Zeke Mayo led the team with 15 points, despite briefly leaving the game due to a lower leg injury. Dajuan Harris Jr. contributed 14 points, while Hunter Dickinson added 12.
Ezra Ausar also made an impact for Utah, scoring 12 points, and Jake Wahlin recorded a double-double with 10 points and 12 rebounds. This victory marked Utah’s first Quad 1 win after nine unsuccessful attempts.
A turning point in the game occurred when Kansas coach Bill Self received a technical foul with 11:37 left. Madsen capitalized on the opportunity, making the resulting free throws to give Utah a 60-49 advantage. However, the Jayhawks retaliated with an 11-point scoring spree.
Takeaways
Kansas: In their inaugural game at Utah, the Jayhawks struggled with ball control, committing 12 turnovers that led to 22 points for the Utes. This loss marks Kansas’s third defeat in their last five games.
Utah: Despite experiencing a 7:17 scoring drought in the second half and Lawson Lovering’s struggles at the free-throw line, the Utes demonstrated resilience and secured a victory against a formidable opponent.
Key moment
In a critical moment, Madsen’s step-back jumper after a head fake capped a 7-0 run, allowing him to break the school 3-point record with 1:58 left in the game.
Key stat
Utah dominated the boards, securing 16 offensive rebounds and out-rebounding Kansas 46-36 overall.
Up next
Looking ahead, Utah will host Kansas State on Monday night, while Kansas is set to face BYU on Tuesday night.
