LAS VEGAS – Fresh off a dominant quarterfinal win over No. 9 seed Utah Tech, Utah Valley continues its pursuit of a historic first appearance in the WAC Tournament championship game. The top-seeded Wolverines will square off against No. 5 seed Seattle U in the semifinals on Friday night at 6 p.m. PT at Orleans Arena. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN+ and carried on the Wolverine Sports Network and ESPN The Fan (960 AM/92.1 FM in Utah County and 98.3 FM/101.5 HD2 in Salt Lake County).
Wolverines on a Mission
Utah Valley (24-7 overall) advances to the semifinals with momentum, riding a nine-game winning streak that includes a 74-57 victory over Utah Tech in Wednesday's quarterfinals. With a 15-1 record in league play, the Wolverines secured the WAC regular-season title by a two-game margin over second-place Grand Canyon.
Player Accolades
Utah Valley guard
Dominick Nelson has been named a finalist for both the Lou Henson Award and the Riley Wallace Award. Nelson, the WAC Player of the Year, has been a key leader for UVU, averaging 15.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game. His outstanding performance has earned him national recognition and propelled UVU to a top-seed in the WAC Tournament.
Utah Valley Dominates WAC Postseason Honors
Following a dominant season, Utah Valley claimed major WAC postseason honors. Alongside Nelson's accolade,
Carter Welling was named WAC Defensive Player of the Year, and head coach
Todd Phillips received WAC Coach of the Year honors. Welling and
Tanner Toolson were selected for the All-WAC Second Team, with Welling also making the WAC All-Defensive Team.
Jackson Holcombe was named to the WAC All-Freshman Team.
Series History vs. Seattle U
Utah Valley and Seattle U will meet for the 31st time, with the Wolverines leading the series 16-14. The last four games between these teams have been closely contested, with each decided by six points or less.
Scouting Seattle U
Seattle U (14-17 overall) advanced to the semifinals with a 69-63 victory over Abilene Christian. Cameron Williamson starred in their quarterfinal win, scoring 20 points with nine rebounds. The Redhawks are known for their proficient three-point shooting, ranking second in the WAC for three-pointers made per game.
Pre-Game Festivities
Join the UVU Alumni Association for a free tailgate party starting at 5 p.m. PT at Orleans Arena. Enjoy food, swag, and a vibrant atmosphere to get pumped for the game.
Broadcast Information
Tonight's semifinal against No. 5 Seattle U will be broadcast live on ESPN+ with Ben Wilson and Dave Miller on commentary and Kendra Sheehan reporting from the sidelines. The radio broadcast will feature Jim McCulloch and Josh Kallunki, available on ESPN 960 AM/92.1 FM in Utah County and 98.3 FM/101.5 HD2 in Salt Lake County, with Brice Larson hosting pregame and postgame coverage.
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