Episode Description
On this episode of Locked On Utes, host J.T. Wistrcill is joined by Alex Napoles from KSL Sportsfor a deep dive into Utah Athletics. The show kicks off with a discussion about the Utah Utes football defense and its outlook for 2026, despite significant losses—including players and coaches moving to Michigan. The duo examines how the defensive staff and Morgan Scalley leadership could keep Utah among the Big 12’s best units, while breaking down positional strengths and lingering concerns, particularly at defensive tackle. The conversation then shifts to Utah men’s basketball and its ongoing struggles. J.T. and Alex analyze the recent loss to Cincinnati, the team’s challenges in Big 12 play, and why the program remains far from its historic highs. They explore issues with recruiting, specifically the lack of elite basketball talent in Utah compared to football, and discuss what needs to change for a turnaround—including increased university support and NIL investment.
Wrapping up, the hosts look at potential hidden gems in local high school basketball who could help rebuild the program, and share where listeners can find more coverage from Alex Napoles. Throughout, the episode offers insight into Utah’s athletic challenges and potential, with candid takes and plenty of local perspective. Perfect for Utes fans looking to stay updated on football, basketball, and recruiting issues impacting their favorite teams!
Follow the show: @LockedOnUtes
Follow: JT: @Jtwistrcill
Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOUtes?sid=YouTube.
Locked On College Conferences, HBCU, Basketball & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnCollege
For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never-ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.
Listener Survey We've put together a survey to learn more about our listeners and make your favorite podcasts even better. Go to https://lockedonpodcasts.com/survey/ to get started. Everyone who completes a survey will be entered for a chance to win one of ten $100 Amazon gift cards.
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Mazda
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Wrapping up, the hosts look at potential hidden gems in local high school basketball who could help rebuild the program, and share where listeners can find more coverage from Alex Napoles. Throughout, the episode offers insight into Utah’s athletic challenges and potential, with candid takes and plenty of local perspective. Perfect for Utes fans looking to stay updated on football, basketball, and recruiting issues impacting their favorite teams!
Follow the show: @LockedOnUtes
Follow: JT: @Jtwistrcill
Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOUtes?sid=YouTube.
Locked On College Conferences, HBCU, Basketball & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnCollege
For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never-ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.
Listener Survey We've put together a survey to learn more about our listeners and make your favorite podcasts even better. Go to https://lockedonpodcasts.com/survey/ to get started. Everyone who completes a survey will be entered for a chance to win one of ten $100 Amazon gift cards.
Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it's time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.
Click here to learn more and join your team's community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub
Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!
5-Hour ENERGY
Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon.
Mazda
Like our players, we’re driven by the details. Because highlights make the reel. What it takes to get there makes it count.
There’s more to a Mazda. Because there’s more to you.
Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.
Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast
FanDuel
Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals.
Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.
FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
for information about our collection and use of personal data for
advertising.