BYU Triumphs Over Baylor 99-94, Ending 4-Game Losing Streak

BYU secured a much-needed victory over Baylor, triumphing 99-94 to end a frustrating four-game losing streak. This hard-fought game, held on a Tuesday night, marked an essential win as the Cougars improved their record to 18-6 and 6-5 in Big 12 play.

Victory Highlights

The Cougars faced a challenging start, falling behind by 12 points within the first 12 minutes. However, they rallied with a powerful performance, concluding the first half on a 20-8 run that tied the game at 41.

In the second half, BYU exhibited impressive efficiency, averaging 1.57 points per possession and maintaining a remarkable 80% shooting from two-point range. At one point, they led by 17 points, but Baylor’s late push narrowed the margin to five.

Standout Performances

• Rob Wright III: Scored a career-high 30 points in his return to Waco, hitting 12 of 21 shots with four rebounds, three assists, and four steals.
• AJ Dybantsa: Contributed 36 points, shooting 14 of 20, along with seven assists and five rebounds.
• Richie Saunders: Added 15 points and nine rebounds.
• Kennard Davis Jr.: Contributed 12 points, including vital free throws in the final moments.

Wright and Dybantsa’s dual scoring effort was historic, marking the first time since 1984 that two BYU teammates scored over 30 points in a game.

Offensive and Defensive Strategies

Despite making only three three-pointers, BYU focused on attacking the paint, obtaining 64 points in the key area. The team shot an impressive 56% from the field and averaged 1.44 points per possession on the road.

Defensively, BYU improved its performance, forcing 13 turnovers that resulted in 24 points. Although they conceded 94 points, the Cougars demonstrated a commitment to defensive intensity, especially during critical moments of the game, including holding Baylor to 2 of 12 shooting during a key stretch in the first half.

Looking Ahead

With Keba Keita dealing with foul trouble, Khadim Mboup stepped up, contributing significant minutes and showing promise as an impactful player off the bench. While BYU’s defense still requires improvement, the energy and focus displayed in this victory provide a solid foundation for the upcoming games.

As they look to build on this success, the Cougars aim to maintain their momentum and continue to hone their defensive strategies in the challenging Big 12 landscape.