Preview: West Virginia Visits Utah in Key Big 12 Women’s Basketball Clash SALT LAKE CITY (Interstat) — A surging West Virginia squad aims to continue its ascent in the Big 12 Conference standings when it visits the Utah Utes at the Jon M. Huntsman Center on Tuesday night. The Mountaineers (17-4, 6-2 Big 12) enter on a three-game winning streak, most recently a 91-77 road victory at BYU on Saturday. Dynamic guard Sydney Woodley erupted for 23 points in just 24 minutes in that win, highlighting a recent offensive surge. Over her last three games, Woodley is averaging 14.0 points per contest. She is complemented by standouts Gia Cooke, who had 21 points and four assists against BYU, and Carter McCray. West Virginia’s strength has been a stifling defense, but the team has scored 80 or more points in three of its last five outings, showing improved offensive balance. Utah (14-6, 3-4), however, looks to rebound from a disappointing 77-49 home loss to Texas Tech last Saturday. The Utes have struggled offensively in conference play, failing to reach 50 points in two of their last three games. Forward Reese Ross, who scored 13 points in the loss, remains a key figure. She posted a 21-point, 10-rebound double-double in a win at Kansas State on Jan. 10, showcasing her potential to impact the game inside. The Utes will need a significant defensive effort to slow West Virginia’s momentum. Utah’s home record (9-3) provides some confidence, but consistency has been an issue in a rugged Big 12 schedule. Historically, this is a new conference rivalry, with both teams joining the Big 12 this season. The matchup pits West Virginia’s defensive pressure and transition game against a Utah team seeking to re-establish its efficient offensive identity on its home floor. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. MST Tuesday. For Utah, the game begins a tough stretch with five of its next seven on the road. West Virginia continues a challenging road swing before hosting Baylor on Feb. 1.