BYU Upsets No. 10 Texas Tech, Advances to Big 12 Tournament
The BYU Cougars achieved a remarkable comeback on Saturday night, defeating No. 10 Texas Tech 82-76 at the Marriott Center in Provo, Utah. This victory, witnessed by 18,104 fans, marks BYU’s first win against Texas Tech since 1993.
Key Highlights from the Game
- BYU rallied from a 13-point first-half deficit.
- Robert Wright III led the Cougars with 27 points.
- The game highlighted BYU’s resilience after losing three consecutive matches.
This victory is significant as it represents BYU’s seventh Quad 1 win, affirming their potential as a contender for the NCAA Tournament. With a current NET ranking of 24 and a KenPom ranking of 25, the Cougars are highlighted as serious competitors.
Upcoming Big 12 Tournament
BYU will face Kansas State on Tuesday at 5 p.m. MDT in the first round of the Big 12 Tournament held at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri. The Cougars enter this game with a record of 21-10 and a Big 12 record of 9-9, securing them a No. 10 seed in the tournament.
- BYU vs. Kansas State
- Date: March 7, 2026
- Time: 5 p.m. MDT
- Location: T-Mobile Center, Kansas City, Missouri
- TV: ESPN+
In their previous meeting, BYU defeated Kansas State 83-73. The Cougars are favored by 11 points according to KenPom.com. A win on Tuesday would pit BYU against No. 7 seed West Virginia in the second round.
Player Performance and Coach Insights
Point guard Robert Wright emphasized the team’s need to maintain their health as they prepare for the tournament. Head Coach Kevin Young praised the team’s practice efforts and highlighted the need to rely on their established habits for success in postseason play.
The Cougars’ performance against Texas Tech raises the question of which team will emerge in the upcoming games. Will it be the squad that decisively defeated Texas Tech, or the one faltering against other opponents like UCF and West Virginia? Young pointed out the importance of sticking to game plans to secure wins moving forward.
NCAA Tournament Outlook
Looking ahead, Selection Sunday looms as BYU finds themselves positioned between a No. 6 and No. 8 seed in many mock brackets. If they secure their spot in the NCAA Tournament, they will strive to solidify their chances for advancement based on performance in the Big 12 Tournament.
As BYU prepares for this crucial week, the atmosphere is charged with optimism and determination following their significant win over Texas Tech. Coach Young and his team are eager to demonstrate their capabilities on the national stage.
