Iowa State Coach Otzelberger Reacts to BYU Loss
In a surprising upset, BYU defeated Iowa State 79-69 at the Marriott Center, solidifying their position as a resilient opponent. The game took place on February 21, 2026. This marked a crucial win for BYU against the No. 6 Cyclones, who, had the NCAA tournament started that day, would have been a No. 1 seed.
Coach Otzelberger’s Assessment
Iowa State’s head coach, T.J. Otzelberger, expressed disappointment in his team’s performance. He said, “They were absolutely the more aggressive team for the majority of the game.” Otzelberger emphasized the need for his players to adapt to the heightened competition. “We’re not sneaking up on anybody. We must come out right away and be the one throwing the first punch,” he added.
Game Highlights
Despite the Cyclones cutting the deficit to three points in the second half, BYU consistently responded with tenacity. Otzelberger remarked that when his team increased their physicality, they began to force turnovers, subsequently boosting their offensive confidence. However, he noted that offensive struggles hindered defensive aggression at key moments.
- Top Performer: AJ Dybantsa shined with 29 points, 10 rebounds, and 9 assists, playing the entire game.
- Defense: Dybantsa played a significant role in limiting Iowa State’s Milan Momcilovic, holding him to just five points.
- Record: Following this game, Iowa State’s record fell to 23-4 and 10-4 in Big 12 play.
Otzelberger’s feedback also highlighted the critical need for higher aggression on defense and more consistent offensive production as the season progresses. He acknowledged that his team needs to replicate their physical toughness, especially on the road, moving forward.
Looking Ahead
The loss presents a formidable challenge for Iowa State as they work towards regaining their top-seed aspirations for the NCAA tournament. With the right adjustments, they aim to bolster their performance in upcoming games.
