Bogut left mark in just 2 seasons
7th former U. player sees jersey hanging in Huntsman Center
At halftime of Saturday's Utah-Air Force game in the Huntsman Center, Bogut became the seventh player in the school's storied basketball history to have his jersey number retired.
Bogut's No. 4 now hangs from the arena ceiling alongside banners honoring Billy McGill (12), Arnie Ferrin (22), Danny Vranes (23), Andre Miller (24), Vern Gardner (33) and Keith Van Horn (44).
"There's some great players," Bogut said. "They're a part of Utah history, and I'm just proud to be part of it, too."
Bogut, the No. 1 overall pick in last year's NBA draft, by the Milwaukee Bucks, considers the honor special.
"I think it's unbelievable getting your jersey retired whether it be in high school, college, little league, or whatever," Bogut said. "It's an amazing accomplishment. It's something you'll remember forever. It's going to be in Utah history forever, which is awesome to me."
After leading the Utes to a 29-6 record and the Sweet 16 in 2004-05, Bogut earned consensus All-America recognition. He received numerous national accolades, including the Wooden Award, Naismith Trophy, Associated Press Player of the Year, USBWA Oscar Robertson Trophy and NABC Division I Player of the Year.
Utah coach Ray Giacoletti welcomed Bogut back with a pregame introduction to the crowd. The "special guest" drew a standing ovation as he and the coach walked to center court.
"Unfortunately we won't be able to suit him up tonight," Giacoletti said.
Bogut learned of his jersey retirement a couple of months ago. He had just returned to Milwaukee from a road trip when Giacoletti called with the news. The announcement caught Bogut off guard. He acknowledged feeling both shocked and relieved in a way — noting Utah's team success had a lot to do with it.
"Andrew worked hard and cared about his teammates," athletics director Chris Hill said during the halftime ceremony.
Bogut, who received a framed jersey, then addressed the crowd.
"This is real emotional," he said while thanking the university, his family and the fans.
In his closing remarks, Bogut said that if it weren't for his financial situation he would have played two more seasons for the Utes.
Prior to attending an afternoon press conference, Bogut visited with his former teammates before their game-day shootaround.
"It's very special for me to come back and see them," said Bogut, who caught an early flight to Salt Lake City after recording a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds in Friday's Rookie-Sophomore Challenge at NBA All-Star Weekend in Houston.
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