BYU Cougars Rout No. 23 Kansas in Historic Marriott Center Victory
Provo, Utah — In a matchup hyped as one of the Marriott Center’s most anticipated games ever, the BYU cougars delivered a resounding 91-57 victory over No. 23 Kansas on Tuesday night. The win marks a important milestone for BYU coach Kevin Young, his first against a ranked opponent.
The Cougars, now 18-8 overall and 9-6 in big 12 play, solidified their hold on fifth place in the conference. Their performance was nothing short of dominant, leaving little doubt as to the outcome.
A Dominant Display from the Opening Tip
BYU’s assertive start set the tone for the entire game. They jumped out to an 8-0 lead in under two minutes and extended it to 22-7 after seven minutes. BYU came out firing,
a statement that proved undeniably true. Three Cougar players reached double figures in scoring before halftime, fueled by 10 three-pointers in the first half alone.This early dominance forced Kansas into a frantic, error-prone offense, allowing BYU to capitalize on numerous turnovers and poor shot selections.The electrifying atmosphere at the Marriott Center only amplified BYU’s home-court advantage.
Offensive Prowess Against a Top Defense
The Cougars’ offensive efficiency was truly remarkable. With 14 minutes left in the game, Kansas head coach Bill Self called his final timeout, a testament to BYU’s unstoppable momentum. Aside from one lengthy scoreless stretch in the first half, Kansas just couldn’t figure out how stop the Cougars,
highlighting the Jayhawks’ struggles against BYU’s relentless attack. BYU’s long-range shooting was notably lethal, sinking 14 three-pointers at a 38.9% clip. Their overall field goal percentage reached 51.5%, with 24 of their 34 made field goals assisted, showcasing excellent ball movement and teamwork.
Richie Saunders led the scoring with 22 points,further strengthening his case for All-Big 12 First Team honors. Trevin Knell and Mawot Mag contributed 15 and 13 points, respectively, while Dallin Hall and Egor Demin combined for 17 points and 13 assists. The victory is even more extraordinary considering KenPom ranked the Jayhawks as the No.5 best defensive team in the nation. Against BYU, that ranking seemed wildly inaccurate.
A historic Night for BYU
The 91-57 victory over No. 23 Kansas represents a significant win for the BYU Cougars, marking a turning point in their season and a testament to their improved performance.The team’s dominant offensive display, coupled with their ability to neutralize a top-ranked defense, showcased their potential for future success. The electrifying atmosphere at the marriott Center and the team’s cohesive performance contributed to a truly memorable night for BYU basketball.
BYU Cougars and Kansas Jayhawks Clash in Intense college Basketball Game
The Marriott Center in Provo, Utah, was the scene of a fierce college basketball battle on Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025, as the Brigham Young Cougars faced off against the Kansas Jayhawks. The game showcased intense competition, impressive athleticism, and exciting plays from both teams.
the atmosphere was electric from the opening tip-off, with BYU’s keba Keita (13) and Kansas’ Hunter Dickinson (1) instantly engaging in a physical battle for the ball. The game featured a dynamic display of talent, with players like BYU’s Fousseyni Traore (45) showcasing impressive defensive skills, attempting to block shots from Dickinson. Simultaneously occurring, BYU’s offensive strategy involved precise passing, as seen in plays by Dawson Baker (25) and Dallin hall (30).
BYU’s Richie Saunders (15) demonstrated his offensive prowess, driving to the basket with determination. The energy on the court was contagious, with BYU’s Trevin Knell (21) celebrating enthusiastically from the sidelines after prosperous scores. Even the crowd participated in the excitement, with BYU fans celebrating after baskets, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
the intensity of the game was palpable, with BYU head coach Kevin Young actively coaching from the sidelines, yelling to his players
. Keita’s performance was particularly noteworthy, as he even managed a powerful dunk. The images captured throughout the game vividly portray the energy and skill on display.
Brigham Young Cougars center Keba Keita (13) and Kansas Jayhawks center Hunter Dickinson (1) both compete for the ball during a tipoff at the start of a game at the Marriott Center on the campus of BYU in Provo on Tuesday,Feb. 18, 2025.
Brigham Young Cougars center Fousseyni Traore (45) attempts to block a shot by Kansas Jayhawks center Hunter Dickinson (1) during a game at the Marriott Center on the campus of BYU in provo on Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025.
Brigham Young Cougars guard Dawson Baker (25) passes the ball during a game between BYU and the Kansas Jayhawks at the Marriott Center on the campus of BYU in Provo on Tuesday,Feb. 18, 2025.
Brigham Young Cougars forward Richie Saunders (15) drives the ball to the basket during a game between BYU and the Kansas Jayhawks at the Marriott Center on the campus of BYU in Provo on Tuesday, feb. 18, 2025.
Brigham Young Cougars guard Dallin Hall (30) passes the ball during a game between BYU and the Kansas Jayhawks at the Marriott Center on the campus of BYU in provo on Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025.
Brigham Young Cougars fans celebrate after a basket during a game between BYU and the Kansas Jayhawks at the Marriott Center on the campus of BYU in Provo on Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025.
Brigham Young Cougars guard Trevin Knell (21) celebrates from the sidelines after BYU scored during a game against the Kansas Jayhawks at the Marriott Center on the campus of BYU in provo on Tuesday,Feb. 18, 2025.
Brigham Young Cougars center Keba Keita (13) dunks the ball during a game between BYU and the Kansas Jayhawks at the Marriott Center on the campus of BYU in Provo on Tuesday, Feb. 18,2025.
Brigham Young Cougars head coach Kevin Young yells to his players from the sidelines during a game between BYU and the Kansas Jayhawks at the Marriott Center on the campus of BYU in provo on Tuesday,Feb. 18, 2025.
The game between the BYU Cougars and the Kansas Jayhawks provided a thrilling display of college basketball, showcasing the talent and intensity of both teams. The images from the game capture the energy and excitement of this memorable matchup.
BYU upsets No. 23 Kansas in Historic Rout
The Brigham Young Cougars delivered a stunning upset victory over the No. 23 Kansas Jayhawks on Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025, at the marriott Center in Provo, Utah. The 34-point margin of victory marked the largest defeat for the Jayhawks as a ranked team against an unranked opponent and tied their biggest loss in head coach Bill Self’s 22 seasons.
The game, a testament to BYU’s defensive prowess, saw Kansas struggle mightily on offense. The Jayhawks shot a dismal 36.5% from the field and an even worse 28.1% from 3-point range, committing 15 turnovers in the process. This performance stands in stark contrast to their usual offensive firepower.
Two of Kansas’ leading scorers, Hunter Dickinson and Zeke Mayo, were largely ineffective. Mayo managed only six points on a 2-for-9 shooting performance. The impact of Dickinson on the court was particularly negative, with Kansas registering a -39 point differential while he was playing. This highlights the Cougars’ success in neutralizing Kansas’ key offensive threats.
The victory represents arguably BYU’s best overall performance of the season, showcasing a team on an upward trajectory. The Cougars’ defensive intensity and strategic execution proved too much for the highly-ranked Jayhawks to overcome. The game’s outcome sent shockwaves through the college basketball world, highlighting BYU’s unexpected strength and Kansas’ vulnerability on this particular night.
BYU HANDS NO. 23 KANSAS THEIR BIGGEST LOSS OF THE BILL SELF ERA (tying USC in the 2021 NCAA Tournament) 🤯 A SPLATTERING IN PROVO.— College Basketball Report (@CBKReport),February 19,2025
Images from the game showed several key BYU players in action,including Keba Keita (13) driving to the basket,Trevin Knell (21) taking a shot,Richie Saunders (15) dribbling down the court,Trey Stewart (1) attempting a 3-pointer,Fousseyni Traore (45) driving to the basket,and Dallin Hall (30) dribbling and interacting with teammates Egor Demin (3) and Saunders. The images also captured Kansas forward Flory Bidunga (40) grabbing a rebound contested by Keita and Hall,and Dawson Baker (25) shooting the ball.
The unexpected outcome underscores the unpredictable nature of college basketball and serves as a significant upset in the 2024-2025 season.
BYU Stuns Kansas in Upset Victory
The BYU cougars pulled off a stunning upset over the Kansas Jayhawks in a late-season March basketball game, leaving the Jayhawks’ coach, Bill Self, full of praise for their performance.
The game, a testament to BYU’s prowess, saw the Cougars dominate the court, leaving Kansas unable to gain any significant momentum. The victory underscored BYU’s potential and their ability to compete with top-ranked teams. The details surrounding the specific score and other game statistics were not provided.
Following the game, Coach Self offered his assessment of BYU’s performance and the Jayhawks’ shortcomings. His comments highlighted the Cougars’ remarkable play and the Jayhawks’ inability to counter their strategy. He didn’t mince words in his post-game analysis.
“I think BYU could have beaten anybody tonight,” Self told reporters after the game.“They were great, and we didn’t do anything to make them play less than great … we couldn’t stop them or get any momentum.”
Self’s candid remarks underscore the significance of BYU’s victory. His acknowledgment of BYU’s exceptional performance speaks volumes about the Cougars’ skill and strategic execution. The statement suggests that the jayhawks faced a superior opponent on that particular night, unable to overcome BYU’s strong performance.
The upset victory serves as a significant moment for the BYU Cougars, showcasing their capabilities on a national stage. The game’s outcome will undoubtedly have implications for both teams moving forward, particularly as the college basketball season progresses towards its climax.
While specific details about the game’s statistics and the overall context of the season remain undisclosed, the impact of this upset victory is undeniable. The game serves as a reminder that in the world of college basketball, anything is possible, and even the most highly ranked teams can be defeated by a determined and well-prepared opponent.
Headline:
Unraveling the Upset: How BYU Cougars Crushed the No.23 Kansas Jayhawks in History-Making victory
Opening statement:
In a notable shake-up of college basketball expectations, the Brigham Young Cougars achieved what many thought unfeasible by decimating the kansas Jayhawks in a 91-57 rout. But how did the Cougars orchestrate such an unprecedented upset? We delve into the expert insights behind this historic Marriott Center triumph.
Editor’s Question:
The BYU cougars’ recent victory over the No.23 kansas Jayhawks was nothing short of historic. Can you explain what made this particular game such a standout in college basketball history?
Expert’s Answer:
This game stands out for several key reasons. foremost, the BYU Cougars showcased offensive prowess by scoring an impressive 91 points while Kansas limped to just 57. It was not just the final score that made headlines but the margins—a 34-point victory against a ranked team is a rare feat in college basketball.
One crucial factor was BYU’s strategic execution and unparalleled teamwork. With 14 three-pointers made at a 38.9% clip, the Cougars demonstrated both skill and depth in their roster. Offensively, they capitalized on Kansas’s struggles, showcasing excellent ball movement and making 51.5% of their field goals.
Moreover, the Cougars managed to neutralize key players like Kansas’s Hunter Dickinson and disrupt the Jayhawks’ rhythm, contributing to their biggest loss sence 2021. Kevin Young’s coaching acumen was on full display as this marked his first victory against a ranked opponent,solidifying BYU’s momentum in Big 12 play.
Editor’s Question:
Kansas is often touted for its defensive strength. What were the major factors that led to their defensive derailment against BYU?
Expert’s Answer:
Kansas has built its reputation on defense, but in this game, several critical issues emerged. Shot selection and offensive execution became major Achilles’ heels. Kansas shot a mere 36.5% from the field and an abysmal 28.1% from three-point range, which indicates fundamental breakdowns in their offensive flow.
Turnover issues compounded their woes; Kansas committed 15 turnovers, giving BYU ample opportunities to capitalize. The Jayhawks’ inability to adjust defensively to BYU’s offensive strategies played a central role, leading to a staggering -39 point differential when Dickinson was on the floor.
Furthermore, BYU’s defensive intensity and versatility hiccupped Kansas’s lineup, with pressure forcing errors and poor shot decisions, which rarely align with the Jayhawks’ known strengths.
Editor’s Question:
Richie Saunders stood out in the game with 22 points amongst his teammates’ strong performances. What does this say about BYU’s depth and potential for the season?
Expert’s Answer:
The standout performances from players like Richie Saunders, Trevin Knell, and Mawot Mag reflect the deep reservoir of talent that BYU possesses. Saunders’ complete collection of points, including 22 points, enhanced his standing as a key player. His output was pivotal in dismantling Kansas’s defensive setup.
This game highlighted BYU’s strategic depth and their potential to compete at the highest levels. With players like Saunders, Trevin Knell contributing 15 points, and Dallin Hall and Egor Demin combining for 17 points & 13 assists, the Cougars exhibit a balanced approach—an attribute crucial for sustained success.
Additionally, the solid ball movement, with 24 of their 34 made field goals being assisted, suggests a cohesive and well-coordinated team. This game exemplified the depth in BYU’s roster that’s crucial for cultural shifts and increased competitiveness in the Big 12 and beyond.
Editor’s Question:
In your view, what critical lessons did kansas take away from this game, and how might they apply these to future matchups?
Expert’s Answer:
The Kansas Jayhawks’ loss serves as a teaching moment emphasizing the need for adaptability in their game plans. Here are a few critical takeaways:
- Defensive Adaptability: Kansas needs to enhance their ability to read and adjust to offensive threats dynamically. Continuing to train on adaptability in defensive schemes will be crucial moving forward.
- Ball Handling and Decision Making: Reducing turnovers and improving shot selection are imperative areas for improvement. These aspects can drastically decide the outcome of closely contested games.
- Resilience and Composure: The ability to remain composed and stick to their strategic playbook amidst pressure is essential. Developing mental toughness will aid them in closer games ahead.
By reflecting on these aspects, Kansas can cultivate resilience and strengthen weaknesses, positioning themselves better for forthcoming competitions.
Conclusion:
This monumental upset by the BYU cougars over the Kansas Jayhawks was not onyl a testament to their strategic brilliance and depth but also a wake-up call for kansas. As BYU continues to solidify its standing, fans and analysts will watch with keen interest how these dynamics evolve moving forward.
Final Thought:
For sports enthusiasts and followers of college basketball, this game underscores the unpredictability and thrill of the sport. Share your thoughts or predictions in the comments section or on social media—what implications do you see for both teams after this game?