Utes' Recruiting Hopes Dashed: Elite 4-Star Guard Chooses Big Ten

In a significant blow to their 2024 recruiting efforts, the Utah Utes men's basketball program has missed out on highly coveted four-star guard Dedan Thomas Jr. The standout prospect, hailing from Las Vegas, announced his commitment to the Big Ten's UNLV Runnin' Rebels, leaving Utah fans to ponder what might have been.

Thomas Jr., a 6-foot-1 point guard from Liberty High School, was a priority target for head coach Craig Smith and his staff.

Rated as the No. 64 overall prospect in the 2024 class and the No. 7 point guard nationally by 247Sports, his talent would have provided an immediate, impactful boost to the Utes' backcourt.

His decision comes after a protracted recruitment process that saw Utah make a strong push. Thomas Jr. took an official visit to Salt Lake City in early September, generating optimism among the Utes faithful.

However, despite their efforts, the allure of staying home and playing for UNLV, a program that has seen a resurgence in its local recruiting, ultimately proved too strong.

This outcome is particularly frustrating for Utah, as securing a player of Thomas Jr.'s caliber is crucial for competing in the challenging landscape of the Pac-12 (and soon, the Big 12).

His explosive playmaking, scoring ability, and leadership would have addressed key needs for the Utes, who are striving to climb back into national prominence.

While the sting of this miss will undoubtedly linger, Utah's coaching staff must now pivot their focus. The 2024 class still holds potential, and identifying and securing other high-impact prospects will be paramount to building a competitive roster for the future.

The search for a game-changing guard continues for the Utes.