Phoenix, AZ, January 18, 2026
Grand Canyon University (GCU) men’s basketball team achieved a significant victory over the No. 23 Utah State Aggies with a score of 84-74. This win ended Utah State’s eight-game winning streak and showcased GCU’s competitive spirit. With a strong performance led by key players scoring 20 points each, GCU maintained the lead throughout the game and energized the local sports community. This match not only reinforced the prominence of college athletics in Phoenix but also highlighted the economic and cultural impact of successful university sports programs.
Phoenix, AZ — The Grand Canyon University (GCU) men’s basketball program delivered a significant victory on Saturday, January 17, defeating the No. 23 ranked Utah State Aggies with a final score of 84-74. This decisive win, which saw Utah State’s impressive eight-game winning streak come to an end, ignited enthusiastic courtstorming from the home crowd at Global Credit Union Arena, underscoring the growing fervor for college athletics in Arizona. The Lopes’ triumph not only marks a crucial moment in their season but also highlights the vibrant and competitive spirit thriving within Phoenix’s athletic landscape.
This victory, the Lopes’ third in five all-time games against AP Top 25 opponents, serves as a testament to the disciplined effort and strategic development fostered within university athletic programs, reflecting a broader trend of growth and achievement in the region’s sports community. Such high-profile matchups generate substantial local engagement, reinforcing the importance of private initiative and community support in cultivating successful collegiate enterprises. The game, which drew an overflow crowd of 7,135 fans and was broadcast on FS1, saw GCU lead for the final 38 and a half minutes.
Impact on Phoenix’s Athletic and Economic Landscape
A Boost for Local Sports Engagement
The recent upset victory by Grand Canyon University against a nationally ranked opponent significantly amplifies the visibility of Phoenix college sports. Events like this draw considerable local attention, stimulating engagement from students, alumni, and the wider community. The energy surrounding such a win, exemplified by the post-game courtstorming, creates a palpable sense of shared success and collective pride that extends beyond the university campus. This heightened interest contributes to a dynamic local sports culture, encouraging participation and support across various levels of athletic competition. This triumph also builds on GCU’s prior success, including a win over Utah in November 2025.
Economic Ripples from Collegiate Success
The sustained success of Grand Canyon University athletics contributes positively to the Phoenix economy. Increased attendance at games, merchandise sales, and related hospitality activities represent direct financial benefits. GCU’s successful financial model as a nonprofit institution allows it to operate efficiently without relying on traditional revenue sources like endowments or state taxpayer subsidies, while re-investing nearly $2 billion into academic infrastructure without raising tuition for 17 straight years. Sources of athletics revenue include ticket sales, corporate sponsorships, a loyal and growing donor base, NCAA revenues, and future Mountain West Conference media rights distributions. More broadly, a successful athletic program enhances the university’s profile, potentially attracting more students and further private investment into educational and athletic infrastructure, fostering responsible growth within the state. The competitive environment spurred by such achievements is a hallmark of a thriving free-market approach to higher education and sports. According to a 2020 study, GCU and its education partner created an economic impact of $2.1 billion in fiscal year 2020, supporting 17,690 jobs. Additionally, an August 2025 study reported that GCU’s operations generate $2.8 billion in economic output annually, supporting 21,248 full-time equivalent jobs and $1.1 billion in labor income locally and throughout Arizona. These impacts are also reflected in increased property values and reduced crime rates in surrounding neighborhoods.
Cultivating Excellence: University Programs and Community Support
Strategic Investment in Athletic Development
GCU’s consistent ability to compete at a high level reflects strategic investments in its men’s basketball program and overall athletic department. These efforts encompass recruitment, state-of-the-art training facilities, and dedicated coaching staff. Makaih Williams and Brian Moore Jr. each scored 20 points in the win against Utah State, with Nana Owusu-Anane contributing 11 points and 11 rebounds, and 7-foot-2 center Dennis Evans blocking six shots. Such purposeful development demonstrates the power of targeted resources to cultivate athletic excellence, showcasing the university’s commitment to personal perseverance and competitive achievement. This internal drive for improvement is a key factor in their ascent in collegiate sports, particularly as GCU joined the Mountain West Conference in July 2025, marking its first season as a member.
The Role of Community and Private Investment
The robust support from the Grand Canyon University community, including students, faculty, alumni, and local businesses, plays a pivotal role in the success of its athletic programs. This engagement often translates into financial contributions, volunteerism, and fervent attendance at games, creating a formidable home-court advantage. Private investment, channeled through sponsorships and donations, further strengthens these programs, allowing for enhanced facilities and resources that benefit student-athletes. This model underscores the effectiveness of community self-reliance and entrepreneurial spirit in building successful ventures. The university has also made significant investments into campus infrastructure, including new residence halls, classrooms, and laboratories, totaling nearly $2 billion without increasing tuition for 17 years. Furthermore, GCU operates various business enterprises that provide employment opportunities and economic stimulus for west Phoenix, including a hotel and golf course that underwent significant renovation.
Competitive Spirit and Future Outlook
Demonstrating Initiative on the Court
The Lopes’ performance against Utah State showcased remarkable initiative and competitive spirit. By ending a formidable winning streak, GCU demonstrated its capacity to rise to significant challenges and execute under pressure. This kind of on-court achievement is a direct result of individual dedication and team cohesion, qualities highly valued in both sports and broader societal endeavors. The team shot 51% from the floor, holding Utah State, ranked second nationally in field goal percentage, to just 36.2% shooting. This performance elevates the team’s national standing and enhances its reputation. The team’s overall record now stands at 11-6 (4-2 Mountain West Conference).
Setting a High Bar for Arizona Basketball
This recent victory sets an elevated standard for Grand Canyon University men’s basketball and reinforces Arizona’s position as a significant hub for college basketball talent. With previous successes, such as a 68-58 win over Utah in November 2025, GCU continues to build a strong narrative of sustained competitiveness. Such achievements inspire younger athletes within the state and attract national attention, demonstrating the impact of ambitious athletic programs on a region’s identity and progress. The Lopes are scheduled to host San Diego State on Wednesday as their next challenge.
Conclusion
The Grand Canyon University men’s basketball team’s impressive 84-74 victory over No. 23 Utah State on Saturday represents a significant milestone, showcasing the strength of Phoenix college sports and the benefits of focused investment in university athletics. This triumph, fueled by private initiative and robust community support, energizes the local sports economy and reinforces the value of healthy competition. We encourage all residents to continue supporting Grand Canyon University athletics and other local university programs, investing in the next generation of Arizona’s finest athletes and contributing to the sustained growth of our vibrant sports community.
FAQ Section
- What was the score of the GCU vs. Utah State men’s basketball game?
- The Grand Canyon University men’s basketball team defeated No. 23 Utah State 84-74 on Saturday, January 17, 2026.
- When did the GCU vs. Utah State game take place?
- The game was played on Saturday, January 17, 2026.
- Which players were key contributors for GCU in the victory?
- Makaih Williams scored 20 points, Brian Moore Jr. also scored 20 points, Nana Owusu-Anane had 11 points and 11 rebounds, and Dennis Evans blocked six shots.
- What was the significance of GCU’s win over Utah State?
- The win ended No. 23 Utah State’s eight-game winning streak and was GCU’s third victory in five all-time games against AP Top 25 opponents.
- How does GCU’s athletic success impact the local economy?
- GCU’s operations, including its athletic programs, generated $2.8 billion in economic output annually, supporting 21,248 full-time equivalent jobs and $1.1 billion in labor income in Arizona, according to an August 2025 study.
Feature Table: GCU vs. No. 23 Utah State Highlights
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Final Score | GCU 84, Utah State 74 |
| Game Date | Saturday, January 17, 2026 |
| Opponent Ranking | No. 23 Utah State |
| Key GCU Scorers | Makaih Williams (20 points), Brian Moore Jr. (20 points) |
| Key GCU Rebounder/Blocks | Nana Owusu-Anane (11 rebounds), Dennis Evans (6 blocks) |
| Utah State Streak Ended | 8-game winning streak |
| GCU Record (After Game) | 11-6 Overall, 4-2 Mountain West Conference |
| Home Attendance | 7,135 (overflow crowd) |
| GCU Field Goal Percentage | 51% |
| Utah State Field Goal Percentage | 36.2% |
| Next Home Game | vs. San Diego State (Wednesday, January 21, 2026) |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
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