BYU Basketball: Analyzing the Cougars' 2018-19 rotation

BYU Basketball: Analyzing the Cougars’ 2018-19 rotation

LAS VEGAS, NV - MARCH 06: Head coach Dave Rose of the Brigham Young Cougars yells to his players during the championship game of the West Coast Conference basketball tournament against the Gonzaga Bulldogs at the Orleans Arena on March 6, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Bulldogs won 74-54. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /

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LAS VEGAS, NV – MARCH 03: TJ Haws /

Shooting Guard

Minutes Allocated (40 total): TJ Haws (14), Nick Emery (16), Rylan Bergerson (5) and McCay Cannon (5)

Part of the reason for BYU’s struggles was Haws’ regression as a shooter compared to his freshman campaign. He went from 40% to 31% from three-point range and barely shot 40% from the field overall. Those numbers won’t work but if he gets back to his freshman form, Haws will be a fine “shooting guard” for BYU. Many teams already utilize two point guard lineups these days and the Cougars will be one of those.

The more natural shooting guard on the team is Emery, back after a year-long absence for personal reasons. In his first two seasons as a starter, he averaged 14.7 ppg while shooting 38% from deep and 84% from the free throw line. The 6’3 guard is also a solid defender and will replace most of Bryant’s production on the perimeter.

Bergersen was the team’s lone freshman on last year’s roster. His playing time showed that fact, just 88 minutes total. But when he was on the court, he played well and his 6’6 and 210-pound frame is an asset, considering the lack of size of the other guards. He’ll get a chance to play early since Emery will be out to begin the season and it’ll be his chance to earn consistent minutes the rest of the season.