Branden Carlson, senior center for the Utah Utes, is the SRA PAC-12 Player of the Week following his standout performances despite the team’s recent setbacks. In two crucial matchups for the Utes, who are teetering on the NCAA tournament bubble, Carlson showcased his prowess, although the team ended up winless against the Oregon schools on the road. Against Oregon State, the last-placed team in the conference, on Thursday, Carlson delivered his season-best performance, notching 40 points while shooting 16-26 overall and 5-10 from beyond the arc.
Photo Cred: ABC
Despite his efforts, the Utes found themselves trailing by as many as 16 points in the first half, ultimately succumbing to a 92-85 defeat against the Beavers. The loss to Oregon State, categorized as a quad 3 defeat, dealt a significant blow to Utah’s NCAA tournament aspirations. However, an opportunity to secure a quad 1 victory presented itself against the Ducks on Saturday. In Eugene, Carlson continued his impressive form, contributing 19 points on 7-12 shooting overall, including 3-5 from three-point range, along with five rebounds and a block.
Yet, the Utes endured a heart-wrenching 66-65 loss to Oregon, effectively diminishing their chances of securing an at-large bid for the NCAA tournament. Carlson has been on a scoring spree, amassing a total of 89 points in his last three games. Throughout the season, he has recorded nine games with over 20 points and four games with over 30 points, highlighting his offensive potency. Additionally, Carlson has notched five double-doubles in what has been an impressive senior campaign. Leading the Utes in both points and rebounds, he boasts averages of 17.5 points per game and 6.9 rebounds per game.
Photo Cred: Utah
Furthermore, Carlson has demonstrated proficiency in shooting, with percentages of 48.8% overall, 37.1% from three-point range, and 70.5% from the free-throw line. Looking ahead, Carlson and the Utes (18-13, 9-11 PAC-12) aim to prolong their season as they face the Arizona State Sun Devils (14-17, 8-12 PAC-12) in the first round of the PAC-12 tournament next Wednesday in Las Vegas, Nevada. Who can make a run?
