(KUTV) In the mid 90s the Utah Utes were regular participants in the NCAA Tournament, with multiple runs to the sweet 16, culminating with an NCAA Title game appearance in 1998.

In recent years, the state could usually count on two and even three schools making the Big Dance but that may not be the case this year.

Former Utah and Murray High basketball star Jeff Johnsen says all the local schools face an uphill climb to make it into college basketball's most prestigious post-season tournament.

Is it just a fluke for this season or is the state of college basketball in Utah in a downward spiral?

(Copyright 2013 Sinclair Broadcasting Group)
Could Be Tough Year For Local College Hoops