Utah basketball great congratulates Gabe Madsen on setting career 3-point mark

Madsen, who finished with a team-high 24 points, reflected on the moment, admitting that it had been an up-and-down season for him shooting-wise. But on this night, his persistence paid off in the biggest way possible.

His teammate, Jake Wahlin, was the first to celebrate with him on the court and later praised Madsen’s work ethic, calling him an example of consistency and perseverance. Wahlin also made his own mark on the game, recording his first career double-double with 10 points and 12 rebounds.

Kansas head coach Bill Self and the Jayhawks had identified Madsen as a primary defensive focus, but that didn’t stop the senior guard from delivering in a big way.

Utah dominated the game in key areas, out-rebounding Kansas 16-6 on the offensive glass and capitalizing on turnovers, forcing 12 from the Jayhawks while committing just seven themselves. Those extra possessions led to a crucial 22-7 advantage in points off turnovers, giving Utah the edge they needed to snap a four-game losing streak against AP No. 17-ranked teams.

The victory marked Utah’s first win over a No. 17-ranked opponent since their 2005 NCAA Tournament victory over Oklahoma. For Madsen, his record-breaking night was more than just personal success—it was a defining moment in Utah’s season.