BYU Basketball: 3 keys to pulling off major upset against No. 2 Gonzaga
By Tuck Clarry
Help Alex Barcello out
In the loss against San Francisco, Alex Barcello scored 25 points. No other starter for the Cougars scored more than three points. In this three-game losing streak, it’s become pretty clear that limiting Barcello is the easiest way to disrupt this BYU offense and cap their offensive ability. If the supporting guards, Te’Jon Lucas, Spencer Johnson, and Trevin Knell can show anything around the arc to keep the Bulldogs honest, the offense instantly opens up.
The Cougars will also need a Herculean effort from their frontcourt. Gonzaga has a clear size advantage but it’s not impossible to pin fouls on a heavy-footed Drew Timme or shot blocking-minded Chet Holmgren. Attacking the basket should be a point of emphasis especially when forcing a WCC referee crew to make tough calls in a hostile environment.
Gideon George and Seneca Knight will both need to have big nights as they have perhaps one of the few size advantages in the head-to-head against the Zags. Outside of Strawther, Gonzaga guards give up a bit of length which could provide an opportunity for the athletic and long George and the three-level scorer Knight. When playing Gonzaga, offense is a must and the supporting cast will need to get going.