Utah Utes basketball: Boylen back with team after family illness

SALT LAKE CITY — Utah coach Jim Boylen is back on the job after taking time to deal with an undisclosed family illness. He didn't make the trip for last Wednesday's game at Air Force.

"I've had a tough week," he noted, while acknowledging that things are improving. "We're not out of the woods, but we've got a good diagnosis, and we're getting the right treatment, and we're thankful for that."

Boylen is especially grateful for the "unbelievable" support from families at the Cosgriff School, where his children are enrolled.

"Just the outpouring of kindness and help has been awesome," he said. "I just appreciate that."

Boylen has received many letters, e-mails and text messages of support from others as well. He's spent a lot of time responding to the inquiries.

The fourth-year head coach, who has a 63-49 record with the Utes, said athletics director Chris Hill and the administration have been supportive throughout the ordeal.

"Family first," Boylen explained. "We preach that, and we lived it this week, and that's been awesome."

Boylen plans to be on the bench for Saturday afternoon's game against San Diego State.

"I'm back with the team. I'm thankful to be back with the group," Boylen said while noting it's been a difficult week. "Things are improving in our family, so that's a blessing."

Boylen oversaw a team meeting on Thursday and ran practice on Friday.

"I'm back at it and thankful to be doing so," Boylen said.

While the Utes were dropping a 77-69 decision at Air Force Wednesday, Boylen was back in Utah taking care of his family. He watched the game on his couch at home after getting his kids in bed.

"It was a gut-wrenching feeling," Boylen said while noting that he was proud of how his assistants and players handled things. The coach also has a better appreciation for how his wife feels when watching his games on television.

It was the first and only game Boylen has missed during his tenure at Utah.

e-mail: dirk@desnews.com