Houston Defeats BYU 77-66, Marking Fourth Straight Loss
The BYU Cougars experienced their fourth consecutive loss in the Big 12 era, falling to the Houston Cougars 77-66 at the Marriott Center in Provo. This defeat on February 7, 2026, brings BYU’s season record to 17-6, with a Big 12 record of 5-5, after a promising start of 5-1 in conference play.
Game Overview
Despite improved defensive efforts, BYU struggled to keep up with the eighth-ranked Houston team. Houston shot 47.5% from the field and 35% from beyond the arc while also averaging 1.31 points per possession. The Cougars managed only four turnovers throughout the game, showcasing their offensive efficiency.
Key Players and Performance
- AJ Dybantsa led BYU with notable plays, including key rebounds and a dunk.
- Richie Saunders had a tough outing, scoring only seven points with a game-low minus-18 plus/minus.
- Big men Keba Keita and Abdullah Ahmed combined for only eight rebounds and struggled to convert shots, going 3 of 10 from the field.
Defensive Efforts and Areas for Improvement
While BYU’s defense showed signs of engagement, it was not enough to suppress the scoring ability of Houston. The team allowed 13 offensive rebounds to Houston, emphasizing the need for improved performance under the basket. The Cougars also missed 12 free throws, which compounded their scoring challenges.
Brighter Days Ahead?
With four of their recent losses against ranked opponents, BYU’s hopes for a favorable tournament seed appear to be diminishing. Coach Kevin Young’s team faces a tough road ahead as they prepare to meet Baylor, where securing a win will prove challenging.
The recent skid has raised questions about the team’s potential going forward. BYU must find a way to regain momentum in the competitive landscape of the Big 12 if they hope to reclaim a position in the AP Top 25.
The losses have left BYU’s bracketology prospects in jeopardy, requiring immediate action to restore confidence and performance in their upcoming games.
