Runnin' Utes hit program-tying 19 3-pointers en route to visiting Central Arkansas

SALT LAKE CITY — Craig Smith finally has the roster to fully embrace the Runnin' Utes nickname.

His team quickly put some distance on the Central Arkansas team, which trailed by 27 points at halftime, in a high-energy and aggressive first half. Utah's defense held Central Arkansas to 2-of-11 shooting and just 23% from the field in the final minutes of the half.

But there was no doubt.

Those runnin' Utes went on a 19-2 run over five minutes in the second half to lead Utah to a 98-63 win over the Bears on Thursday night.

For the second straight game, Gabe Madsen led the team with 25 points, including six made 3-pointers and four rebounds in the win. With the effort, Madsen became the latest Utah player to surpass the 1,000 career point threshold.

And again, his twin, Mason Madsen, was right behind him with 15 points, all of which came from behind the 3-point line.

Utah's ability to share the ball was most impressive the second night, leading to easy points from behind the arc. Just three days after hitting 19 3-pointers — an all-time program high — Utah (2-0) finished the night with 19 made 3-pointers (10 of which came in the first half) and 23 assists on 30 made baskets.

For another night, Mike Sharawjamats was the ball's biggest facilitator, finishing with eight assists, including a streaking no-look pass to Jake Wahlin for a quick 2-point basket in the first half, adding 13 points and eight. rebounds

Central Arkansas (0-2) finished the night shooting just 31% from the field, with Lane Taylor leading the team with 15 points on just 4-of-13 shooting. Brayden Fagbemi added 13 points as the only player to finish in double figures for the Bears.

This story will be updated.