Kansas Coach Bill Self Reflects on Triumph Over No. 13 BYU
The 1,000th game at Allen Fieldhouse marked a significant milestone for the Kansas Jayhawks, who secured a 90-82 victory over the No. 13-ranked BYU Cougars. This win extended Kansas’s winning streak to five games.
Kansas Coach Bill Self on the Milestone Game
Following the match, Kansas coach Bill Self shared his reflections. He called it “a great day” and praised the live broadcast of ESPN’s “College Gameday” as an excellent showcase of the university and its athletic department’s vibrancy. Self expressed his pride in the event’s turnout and energy.
First Half Dominance
The Jayhawks displayed impressive performance in the first half, scoring 53 points and hitting 9 of 12 three-point attempts. This incredible start put BYU in a challenging position, facing a 20-point halftime deficit. Darryn Peterson, a highly anticipated prospect for the upcoming NBA draft, contributed significantly by scoring 18 first-half points.
- First Half Points: 53
- Three-Point Shooting: 9 of 12
- Darryn Peterson’s Points: 18
Second Half Struggles
However, the second half presented challenges for Kansas. Peterson exited the game due to cramping, allowing BYU to mount a comeback, narrowing the Jayhawks’ lead to as few as four points. Despite the pressure, Kansas managed to maintain an eight-point lead by the game’s conclusion.
Self’s Assessment of the Game
Coach Self acknowledged the fatigue his players experienced during the second half. He remarked on the exhausting energy expended in the first half, which left his team scrambling towards the finish. Kansas’s limited depth was a factor, prompting him to credit BYU for their resilience.
Key Opponent: BYU’s AJ Dybantsa
BYU’s AJ Dybantsa, considered a contender for the top NBA draft pick alongside Peterson, scored 17 points. Despite this, Kansas’s defensive strategy successfully limited his effectiveness, a fact Self emphasized. “You just need to contest his shots and limit his opportunities,” he stated.
This historic game showcased not only Kansas’s competitive spirit but also highlighted key players and strategic moments, making it a memorable day for both the team and their supporters.
