Opinion
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BYU Cougars Set to Challenge Iowa State Cyclones at Hilton Coliseum

As the Brigham Young University Cougars prepare to face off against the Iowa State Cyclones at James H. Hilton Coliseum, fans are buzzing with anticipation. The BYU team has shown a mix of resilience and vulnerability in their recent games, which sets the stage for an intriguing battle.


Jan 16, 2024; Provo, Utah, USA; Iowa State Cyclones forward Tre King (0) shoots a free throw against the Brigham Young Cougars during the second half at Marriott Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports

In their last game on February 24 against Kansas State Wildcats, BYU displayed a strong offensive performance with 74 points but fell short defensively, allowing 84 points. Despite shooting 58 percent from two-point range and securing an impressive 38 rebounds, their defense couldn't contain the Wildcats' fast breaks and high field goal percentage.


However, just three days prior on February 21, BYU showcased their ability to bounce back by defeating Baylor Bears with a score of 78-71. Their three-point shooting was particularly noteworthy at an impressive 39 percent accuracy rate. This victory was underpinned by strategic plays leading to second-chance points totaling up to 20 and a remarkable assists turnover ratio of 3.33.


Jan 16, 2024; Provo, Utah, USA; Iowa State Cyclones forward Milan Momcilovic (22) shoots the ball \against Brigham Young Cougars guard Richie Saunders (15) during the second half at Marriott Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports

Earlier in the month on February 17 against Oklahoma State Cowboys, although scoring a commendable total of 83 points and dominating inside the paint with powerful two-pointers (64 percent), BYU's efforts were overshadowed by Oklahoma State's staggering shooting performance that led them to rack up a higher total score of 93.


The upcoming game poses both challenge and opportunity for BYU. The Cyclones will be defending home court advantage at Hilton Coliseum where they have historically been tough opponents. However, if BYU can harness their sharpshooting skills from beyond the arc as demonstrated against Baylor while tightening up defensively as needed after facing Kansas State, they stand a good chance of coming out on top.


Jan 16, 2024; Provo, Utah, USA; Iowa State Cyclones forward Robert Jones (12) shoots the ball over Brigham Young Cougars forward Atiki Ally Atiki (4) during the first half at Marriott Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports

The key for BYU will be maintaining ball control while exploiting any weaknesses in ISU's defense – something they've proven capable of doing when playing cohesively as seen in previous games this season.


Fans should mark their calendars for March 6th at James H. Hilton Coliseum where this exciting matchup will take place at precisely six o'clock in the evening local time (Mountain Time). For those unable to attend in person, ESPN+ will provide coverage over internet broadcast networks so no one misses out on what promises to be an enthralling encounter between these two competitive teams.

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