College of Idaho men put early scare in No. 21 Utah

The College of Idaho raced to an early 14-point lead on the strength of four 3-pointers and defensive pressure that forced three turnovers, but the advantage faded in a 115-74 loss to Utah on Monday.

The game was an exhibition for the NAIA Coyotes (7-6).

Aitor Zubizarreta scored 19 points and Joey Nebeker (Melba High) added 15 for the C of I.

After the Yotes’ fast start, Utah coach Larry Krystowiak substituted Jakob Poeltl and Kyle Kuzma after 1 minute and took a timeout.

Dakarai Tucker and Kuzma scored 17 points, and Isaiah Wright (Borah High) added eight for the Utes (11-2).

The Yotes host Evergreen on Wednesday and Northwest on Thursday. Both games start at 7:30 p.m. at the J.A. Albertson Activities Center in Caldwell.

IDAHO WOMEN’S BASKETBALL: The Vandals (8-4) closed out their nonconference schedule with a 75-47 home win over Carroll College. Seniors Christina Salvatore and Renae Mokrzycki led Idaho with 14 points each.

This story was originally published December 28, 2015 at 11:33 PM with the headline "College of Idaho men put early scare in No. 21 Utah."