In a thrilling matchup at the Huntsman Center, the West Virginia Mountaineers secured a narrow victory against Utah, overcoming a late deficit to win 71-69 on March 4, 2025. The game was a test of resilience and determination for the Mountaineers, who showed exceptional grit in the closing minutes. West Virginia’s star player, Kedrian Johnson, shone brightly, scoring 17 points, including a crucial three-pointer that shifted momentum in the Mountaineers’ favor. With only seconds remaining, Utah had a chance to tie or win, but their desperate shot fell short, sealing the victory for West Virginia. Head coach Bob Huggins praised his team’s effort, stating, ‘We stayed with it and executed down the stretch. That’s what you need in games like this.’ On the other side, Utah’s Brandon Carlson led his team with 24 points and was a dominant presence in the paint. Despite their loss, Utah’s performance showed potential, as coach Craig Smith commented, ‘We made some great plays, but we need to be more consistent in crunch time.’ This game marks a significant win for the Mountaineers as they look to improve their standings in the NCAA tournament race. The game was attended by a lively crowd, who witnessed an intense and competitive matchup that showcased the best of collegiate basketball.
Mountaineers Show Grit in Closing Minutes to Win at Utah 71-69
