After a commanding victory against Arizona State, the No. 9 BYU Cougars are focusing on their upcoming game against the Utah Utes. This matchup is set for Saturday at 8 p.m. MST at the Jon M. Huntsman Center. The game will be broadcast on ESPN and can also be heard on BYU Radio.
Previous Encounters with Utah
The Cougars and Utes have faced each other twice in their new Big 12 alignment. Last season, BYU suffered a close 73-72 overtime loss in Salt Lake City. They avenged that defeat with an 85-74 win at home two months later. However, the sting of the previous loss still resonates with the players, particularly as they seek to claim a victory in Utah.
Current Standings
- BYU Record: 2-0 (14-1 overall)
- Utah Record: 0-2 (8-7 overall)
Heading into this game, BYU is considered a 14-point favorite, with a predicted win probability of 89%. Despite these favorable statistics, the Cougars acknowledge the challenges they may face on the road.
Standout Players
Richie Saunders was a key contributor in the recent victory over Arizona State, scoring a career-high 31 points. He emphasized the importance of the upcoming game, looking to secure a win during his senior year.
Point guard Rob Wright III also performed well, recording 27 points on 9 of 15 shooting. He has demonstrated consistent shooting from beyond the arc, achieving over 40% accuracy from three-point range in 11 consecutive games. AJ Dybantsa, another star player, has scored over 20 points in 10 games this season, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
Coaching Perspectives
Coach Kevin Young expressed his eagerness for the matchup, acknowledging the rivalry’s intensity. He maintains a deep respect for the Utes and their program, indicating that despite not growing up disliking them, he is now focused on bringing home a victory.
Game Details
The BYU Cougars will take the court against the Utah Utes:
- Date: Saturday
- Time: 8 p.m. MST
- Location: Jon M. Huntsman Center
- Broadcast: ESPN and BYU Radio
This encounter promises to be thrilling, as both teams vie for a crucial win in this extended rivalry. The Cougars’ determination and the Utes’ energy create a perfect storm for a captivating college basketball showdown.
