Dybantsa Scores 25 in BYU’s Narrow Loss to UConn in Boston
In a thrilling NCAA basketball matchup, the BYU Cougars faced their first defeat of the 2025-26 season against the UConn Huskies. The game took place on November 15, 2025, at TD Garden in Boston, where UConn emerged victorious with a narrow 86-84 win. This contest marked a significant moment for the Cougars and showcased the talent of both teams.
Dybantsa Shines with 25 Points
AJ Dybantsa, a five-star freshman from Brockton, Massachusetts, was the standout player for BYU. He scored an impressive 25 points and added six rebounds. His performance was pivotal, especially as he returned to his hometown. Despite BYU’s loss, his contribution highlighted his potential in collegiate basketball.
Key Players and Stats
- Tarris Reed Jr.: 21 points, 8 rebounds for UConn
- Silas Demary Jr.: 21 points, 5 rebounds, 7 assists
- Alex Karaban: 21 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals
- Richie Saunders: 17 points, 4 rebounds
- Robert Wright III: 16 points, 4 assists
- Dawson Baker: 12 points
UConn improved their record to 4-0, bolstered by the efforts of Reed, Demary, and Karaban, each contributing significantly to their scoring. BYU, now at 3-1, demonstrated resilience, clawing back from a 15-point deficit early in the game.
Game Highlights
The Cougars struggled initially, shooting poorly from beyond the arc, making just 2 of 12 attempts in the first half. UConn capitalized on this, leading 43-32 at halftime. However, BYU displayed determination and responded with a series of strong plays in the second half, led by Dybantsa’s scoring surge.
Adversity and Future Challenges
The Cougars faced additional challenges during the game. Kennard Davis Jr. was sidelined due to team rule violations, and Keba Keita suffered an injury early on, limiting BYU’s depth. Coach Kevin Young noted that this experience would help the team grow as they faced more adversities throughout the season.
Following this competitive game, BYU will look to bounce back as they host No. 24 Wisconsin on November 21, 2025, at the Delta Center. The team’s ability to build on this experience will be crucial as they navigate the rest of the season and prepare for postseason play.
