Opinion
3 min read

BYU Cougars Set to Tangle with Baylor Bears at Marriott Center

As the BYU Cougars prepare to host the Baylor Bears at the Marriott Center, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be a thrilling encounter. The Cougars have been on a tear recently, and their performance in past games suggests they're not about to slow down.


Dec 1, 2023; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Brigham Young Cougars guard Richie Saunders (15) shoots the ball against the Fresno State Bulldogs during the first half at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports

On December 23rd against Bellarmine Knights, BYU put on an offensive clinic, racking up 101 points with an astonishing 58 percent field goal accuracy. Their three-point shooting was equally impressive at 41 percent, sinking 16 from beyond the arc. But it wasn't just their shooting that caught the eye; their playmaking was top-notch as well, dishing out 29 assists which speaks volumes about their unselfish play and court vision.


The defensive side of the ball didn't disappoint either. The Cougars tallied seven steals and five blocks while dominating the boards with 41 rebounds. This kind of two-way performance is exactly what they'll need against Baylor.


In another display of dominance on December 17th versus Georgia State Panthers, BYU's defense shone through with nine steals and a stifling presence that limited turnovers to just four while forcing sixteen from their opponents. Offensively they were efficient from close range (53 percent two-point shooting) and maintained a solid three-point percentage (40 percent), indicative of their balanced attack.


Against Denver Pioneers on December 14th, BYU continued its strong form by posting a robust field goal percentage of 50 percent along with an exceptional free-throw line performance (91 percent). They also showcased depth in scoring options and resilience in rebounding—both offensive and defensive—with totals eclipsing those of Denver.


The upcoming game against Baylor Bears will undoubtedly test BYU's mettle once more. The Bears come into this game as formidable opponents but given recent performances; it's clear that if BYU maintains its high-octane offense coupled with tenacious defense, they stand more than just a fighting chance—they could very well dominate proceedings once again.


Fans should mark their calendars for February 20th when these two teams clash at Marriott Center in Provo at 7:00 PM local time (9:00 PM Eastern Time). Those unable to attend can catch all the action live on ESPN Networks – ensuring no one misses out on what promises to be an enthralling matchup between these collegiate basketball powerhouses.

Rate the article

Related stories

Will the BYU Cougars Outmaneuver the Duquesne Dukes in Omaha?
Opinion

Will the BYU Cougars Outmaneuver the Duquesne Dukes in Omaha?

3 min read
BYU Cougars Primed for Strategic Showdown with Texas Tech Red Raiders
Opinion

BYU Cougars Primed for Strategic Showdown with Texas Tech Red Raiders

3 min read
Can BYU Cougars Outmaneuver UCF Knights in the Heart of America?
Opinion

Can BYU Cougars Outmaneuver UCF Knights in the Heart of America?

3 min read