BYU’s Support Seals Upset Victory Over No. 6 Iowa State
BYU secured a remarkable upset victory over No. 6 Iowa State, aided by standout performances from its players. The team’s win on Saturday night showcased both individual talent and collective effort, contributing to a vital boost in confidence for the Cougars.
Key Performances in BYU’s Victory
Freshman AJ Dybantsa grabbed headlines with an impressive stat line: 29 points, 10 rebounds, and 9 assists. His relentless defense also played a crucial role in the game. However, other players stepped up significantly, compensating for the absence of star Richie Saunders, who is out for the season.
Contributions from Supporting Players
- Richie Saunders: Out for the season
- AJ Dybantsa: 29 points, 10 rebounds, 9 assists
- Rob Wright III: Played all 40 minutes
- Kennard Davis Jr.: 17 points, including 3 three-pointers
- Mihailo Boskovic: 13 points, 5 rebounds
- Keba Keita: 9 points, 6 rebounds
- Khadim Mboup: 5 points, 10 rebounds, team-best defensive performance
In total, these players collectively scored 44 points and grabbed 25 rebounds, marking BYU’s highest scoring game since December 13 against UC Riverside. Coach Kevin Young praised the team’s resilience and adaptability, highlighting the importance of confidence and seizing opportunities.
The Game’s Momentum Shifts
From the onset of the game, BYU set an assertive tone. The first seven points scored came from players outside of Dybantsa and Wright, relieving some pressure off the main stars. Davis’s electrifying dunk ignited the crowd, showcasing the team’s competitive spirit.
Boskovic, who had faced challenges in earlier games, demonstrated his ability to contribute significantly. After a rough outing against Arizona, he expressed relief and satisfaction at finding his rhythm in this matchup.
The Road Ahead for BYU
BYU’s victory serves not only as a significant milestone for the current season but also revitalizes the team’s morale. Coach Young acknowledged the importance of this win, reinforcing that it brings newfound hope and belief within the squad. The Cougars are now determined to build on this momentum going forward.
As the season progresses, BYU will need to maintain its competitive edge, drawing on the lessons learned from this pivotal game. The team is on a path of reinvention, and this upset against Iowa State has confirmed their resilience in the face of adversity.
