As the season unfolds, the Wildcats have faced a number of challenges, but none more persistent than their struggles on the boards. For Utah head coach Mark Pope, there’s no sugarcoating the issue — the team’s rebounding performance has been a glaring concern. When asked about the ongoing struggles in the rebounding department, Pope didn’t hesitate to speak candidly, offering a direct assessment of the problem and his expectations moving forward.
“We’ve got to be better,” Pope said, his tone firm but focused. “Rebounding is a mindset, and we’ve got to approach it with a much greater sense of urgency and aggression. If we’re going to compete at the level we want to, that starts with hitting the boards.”
It’s no secret that strong rebounding is a key pillar of success in any basketball program, and Pope is well aware of its importance. His no-nonsense approach to addressing the issue is a reflection of his leadership style and his determination to hold his players accountable.
The Wildcats have struggled in both offensive and defensive rebounding this season, often failing to secure critical possessions or second-chance opportunities. Despite flashes of individual brilliance, the team’s collective effort on the boards has been inconsistent, leading to a significant disparity in rebounding margins across games.
Pope acknowledged that part of the problem stems from a lack of physicality in the paint, which has allowed opponents to dominate in areas the Wildcats need to control. “We’ve got guys who can rebound, but it’s about showing up every possession and making the effort to fight for the ball. It’s not always about being the biggest or the strongest, it’s about positioning and the will to go get it.”
The Wildcats have relied heavily on their perimeter play, but Pope understands that to be a complete team, they must improve in the areas that win games — and rebounding is at the top of that list. As the head coach, Pope has emphasized that every player must contribute to the effort, regardless of their position or role on the court.
With several tough matchups ahead, Pope knows that unless his team can find a way to control the glass, they will continue to face an uphill battle. “Rebounding is one of those areas that doesn’t require talent; it requires effort, commitment, and heart. We need that from everyone, not just a few guys,” Pope said.
The Wildcats will look to respond to Pope’s challenge in their upcoming games, with an emphasis on improving their physicality and aggressiveness on the boards. If they can make strides in this critical area, they could quickly become a much more dangerous team as the season progresses.
As the team enters a pivotal stretch of games, the pressure is on for the Wildcats to address their rebounding woes. Pope’s directness may serve as the spark the team needs to refocus and take ownership of their performance in the paint. The next few weeks could reveal whether the Wildcats are ready to rise to the challenge or if rebounding will continue to be a liability for their postseason aspirations.
