It has been common knowledge for some time that the Utes planned significant changes to their uniforms for next season, but they released a design sketch of them today while announcing that adidas will supply the uniforms, shoes and apparel for the team.

"The way they've treated us so far is an awesome statement about their commitment to University of Utah men's basketball," new coach Jim Boylen said in a statement.

The uniforms will eliminate the strips of black that had been featured as an accent color -- the official school colors are crimson and white -- and will not include players' names on the back of the jerseys.

Instead, in keeping with arguably the most annoying trend in college basketball -- purportedly to connote the importance of the team over the individual -- the jerseys will simply say "Utah" above the number on the back of the jerseys.

"From day one, I've said that the players and the people who are supporting this program need to take more ownership," Boylen said. "We're trying to build this program the right way. I felt there wasn't enough emphasis on playing for the University of Utah and what it means to have Utah across your chest or your back. Again, this is an outward statement toward our inward commitment to become the best program in the country."

If it works, I guess ...

The uniforms also will include numerous references to "The Muss" student section and fan club, in an effort to "connect" more with with the students.