Cougars Triumph Over Holy Cross in Dominant Victory
In a remarkable season opener, the No. 8-ranked BYU Cougars showcased their basketball prowess with a resounding 98-53 victory against Holy Cross at the Marriott Center. This dominant performance highlighted the team’s offensive and defensive capabilities.
Outstanding Offensive Performance
The Cougars delivered an impressive offensive game, scoring 58 points in the first half alone. Their overall shooting was exceptional, finishing at 61.9% for the game. Notably, BYU excelled from 2-point range, shooting 84.2%. They managed to reach 98 points with only seven 3-pointers.
- Richie Saunders led the team with 20 points.
- AJ Dybantsa, Rob Wright, Kennard Davis, and Dawson Baker also contributed significantly, each scoring in double digits.
- Overall, BYU recorded 20 assists while committing just six turnovers.
Defensive Domination
Defensively, the Cougars were equally impressive, holding Holy Cross to a mere 35% shooting. The Crusaders, known for their 3-point shooting, managed only 13.6% from beyond the arc, hitting just 3 of 22 attempts.
- BYU’s defense forced 15 turnovers.
- Richie Saunders recorded four steals, while Keba Keita added three steals and Xavion Staton made two blocks.
A New Era for BYU Basketball
This victory signals a new chapter for BYU basketball. The team’s style has shifted from reliance on 3-point shooting to a more athletic and aggressive approach. This year’s roster is possibly the most athletic in BYU history, focusing on isolation plays and strong drives to the basket.
In a thrilling display, the Cougars recorded ten dunks during the game, showcasing their explosive athleticism. As they continue this season, fans can expect both impressive results and entertaining basketball.
