Utah Basketball: Runnin' Utes Sign Jakub Jokl

The Runnin' Utes lost a Jakob and now they add a Jakub. The program announced today that they will be adding Jakub Jokl, who signed an LOI  to play for the team next season. The big guy, measuring at 6-11 and 230 pounds, will presumably help feel the void that Poeltl left by declaring early for the NBA Draft. Coach K has one heck of an international connection, and has been successful thus far. As you'll see in the press release below, Jokl has some international experience, and has been in a basketball academy, which is the norm overseas.

Here's the full press release:

SALT LAKE CITY – University of Utah head men’s basketball coach Larry Krystkowiak announced that Jakub Jokl has signed a National Letter-of-Intent to play for the Runnin’ Utes beginning next season. Jokl, a 6-11, 230-pound forward/center, hails from the Czech Republic and will be immediately eligible to play for the Utes. He is coming off a season playing with the Canarias Basketball Academy. "We are very excited to welcome Jakub to the Utah Basketball family," said Krystkowiak. "His size and skill will be a great addition to our front court. Jakub also brings valuable International playing experience to our team after coming to us from a great CBA program where he has worked hard to improve and has been developed by great coaches. We look forward to getting him on campus and working with him." Jokl was also a member of both the U16 and U18 Czech Republic National teams, as well as playing for the JBC MMC Basketball Club. "I have been working to get an opportunity [to play collegiately] and now I will be able to play for the Utes," said Jokl. "During my only year at the CBA Academy, I could work on all my skills with the best staff, particularly with the ex-NBA champion and ex-Euroleague player, Richard Petruska, who helped me in my development. I did not go wrong when I chose the CBA." Jokl’s Director of CBA, Rob Orellana, feels that Jokl will be a great addition to the Runnin’ Ute roster. "Jakub is a great player, who has worked a lot during the season to meet his goals," said Orellana. "He is going to play at a top University and he is prepared for what lies ahead. Utah has signed a center that is able to move and shoot effortlessly. I am sure that Coach Krystkowiak will enjoy coaching Jakub". Jokl joins both Tyler Rawson and Tim Coleman as spring additions to the Utah roster.