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Show A packed fieldhouse greeted the University of Utah's basketball crew for the first game of the season against Idaho. The local citizenry was anxious to see just what kind of a basketball team coach Vadal Peterson had for the 1948-49 season, and this was the unveiling. Every student had high hopes for the team, and the Utes didn't let anyone down as they thumped a fighting but outclassed Idaho five, 62 to 39.Vern Gardner showed that he was once again a contender for All-American honors as he hit the hoop for 16 points and played a stellar defensive game. Idaho just couldn't touch the vauted Utes as they displayed a smooth attack and sturdy defense.Powerful Oregon State was Utah's second foe of the season and once again students and fans filled the fieldhouse to over-flowing to watch the Utes and Beavers tangle in the double header. The Redskin cagers had too much steam however, and thumped the lads from Corvallis, 53 to 42. The boys from Oregon were highly favored to win the Pacific Coast northern division title, and thus the Ute victory had much significance.The Utes stopped Oregon's candidate for All-American, Cliff Crandall, while Vern Gardner went on to score 15 points and take high point honors once again.C/l.,,Vern GardnerNo. 33George SmithNo. 7Dick Smuin No. 10In the spirited canto with Oregon State, Leon Watsons crafty ball handling added spark to the team's performance. Unfortunately Watson was unable to finish the season, due to illness.Caught by the camera's flash! Big Vern Gardner, Utah's All-American center is shown dribbling past his Idaho opponents in a fast break for the basket.219 |