Jan. 19, 2007
Orem, UT- The Utah Valley State men's basketball team plays host to Johnson & Wales-Denver on Saturday at 7 p.m. in the McKay Center. The game can be heard live on 1400 KSTAR.
This is the fifth meeting between the two schools. The Wolverines hold a 4-0 series lead having beat Johnson & Wales 70-42 in Orem last year.
"Our game with Johnson & Wales has turned into an annual thing," Utah Valley State coach Dick Hunsaker said. "They are a non-Division I independent in the Rocky Mountains looking for games in January and February."
The game also marks the return of former Highland High star Eric Daniels. Daniels helped lead the Rams to the 4A state title in 2002. The former Highland star is averaging 14.5 points and 4.3 steals a contest.
"They are an improved team from a year ago," Hunsaker said. "They bring back All-State and state champion from Highland High School Eric Daniels. I know they will be excited to play us. We will need to maintain our discipline and concentration."
Jason Davis leads Johnson & Wales offensively, shooting 57 percent from the floor and scoring 17.9 points a game.
Utah Valley is 11-6 and winners of five of its last six games. David Heck leads the Wolverines in scoring at 13.5 points a game while teammate Ryan Toolson is right behind him at 13.3. Heck and Toolson are both shooting 43 percent from the floor.
Utah Valley is receiving recognition on the national level as they are earning votes in the Mid-Major Top 25 poll that is voted upon by coaches from across the country. The Wolverines are currently ranked 39th.
Jordan Brady leads the team in rebounding at 5.2 boards a game. He is also shooting 59 percent from the floor.
The Wolverines are coming off an 80-52 victory over Longwood. Heck led four players in double figures with 20 points.
The Wolverines return to action on Thursday January 25 when they play at South Dakota State. Tip off is set for 6 p.m. UV's next home game is February 1 when they play host to New Jersey Institute of Technology. Tip off is set for 7 p.m. All students get in free with ID to all Wolverine home games.
