BYU's Late Surge Not Enough to Overcome Texas Tech's Dominance at United Supermarkets Arena
The Brigham Young University Cougars, ranked 20th, faced a challenging contest against the 25th-ranked Texas Tech Red Raiders, culminating in a score of 85-78. The Cougars' season record now stands at an impressive 20-5, while the Red Raiders boast a competitive tally of 18-7.
In an intense conference game at United Supermarkets Arena in Lubbock, Texas, the BYU Cougars displayed remarkable resilience but ultimately fell short against the Texas Tech Red Raiders. The home team capitalized on their opportunities and executed a well-rounded performance that saw them outscore BYU in both halves. Despite trailing with only 48 points to Texas Tech's 53 in the second half and finishing with a total of 78 points compared to their opponent's commanding finish with 85 points.
The Cougars' offense was spearheaded by their proficient shooting from beyond the arc where they made an impressive thirteen three-pointers on thirty-nine attempts for a solid three-point percentage of thirty-three percent. Inside the paint was another story of success for BYU as they accumulated thirty-two points demonstrating their ability to penetrate Texas Tech’s defense.
On defense, however, BYU struggled without recording any blocks throughout the game and managed only four steals. Their rebounding effort was more fruitful; they grabbed forty-two rebounds including thirteen offensive boards which contributed to eighteen second-chance points – showcasing their tenacity on both ends of the floor.
BYU’s ball distribution resulted in fifteen assists but was overshadowed by twelve turnovers which translated into just four points off turnovers for them – an area where improvement is needed especially when facing teams like Texas Tech who scored twenty-two points off turnovers thanks largely to eight steals.
One key player fouled out for BYU which might have impacted their defensive solidity late in the game. Free throw accuracy also proved costly as they shot sixty percent from the line making only three free throws out of five attempts.
Looking ahead after this tough loss on foreign hardwoods, fans can mark their calendars for another exciting matchup as Brigham Young University will host Houston Cougars at Marriott Center located in Provo, Utah. This upcoming encounter is scheduled for January 23rd at 8:00 PM local time and will be available for viewing on ESPN+ via internet broadcast networks. Fans are encouraged to support their team as they look forward to bouncing back from this setback with renewed vigor and focus.