Coach McCasland Commends BYU After Texas Tech’s Defeat
In a thrilling rematch, BYU triumphed over Texas Tech on Saturday, March 7, 2026, with a score of 82-76. This victory marked a significant turnaround for the Cougars, who had struggled with a 4-10 record since their earlier encounter with the Red Raiders.
Game Recap
In their first matchup this season, BYU had boasted a strong 16-1 record but was defeated 84-71 in Lubbock, Texas. Heading into Saturday’s game, the Cougars faced a challenging three-game losing streak and needed to rally for a strong performance at the Marriott Center in Provo.
BYU staged a remarkable comeback in the second half, reversing an early 13-point deficit. Texas Tech started the game well, hitting an impressive 12 three-pointers in the first half. However, their shooting fell off significantly after halftime, finishing the game with just 38% from the field.
Coach McCasland’s Praise for BYU
Texas Tech’s head coach, McCasland, acknowledged BYU’s impressive display post-game. “Credit to BYU, what a great environment,” he said. He noted that despite BYU’s earlier struggles, they found their rhythm in the second half and showed resilience throughout the match.
McCasland also commented on his team’s performance, highlighting issues with rebounding and paint defense. “When you give up 20 offensive rebounds and get crushed in the paint, it’s going to be hard to win games,” he remarked. Texas Tech allowed BYU to score 48 points in the paint while they managed only 14.
Statistics Breakdown
| Team | Total Points | Field Goal Percentage | Three-Point Percentage | Offensive Rebounds | Paint Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BYU | 82 | 47% | 23% | 20 | 48 |
| Texas Tech | 76 | 38% | 38% | 8 | 14 |
Looking Ahead
With this loss, Texas Tech secured the 4th seed for the upcoming Big 12 tournament, earning a double bye alongside the opportunity to regroup before their first game on Thursday. McCasland expressed gratitude for the days off to reassess and improve their rebounding strategy.
This match not only highlighted BYU’s ability to overcome adversity but also showcased the passionate support from their fans, culminating in a court storming celebration after the final buzzer.
