NCAA Basketball: UConn, Iowa State, Auburn rise in latest top 25 power rankings
By Joey Loose
22. BYU (23-10)
After struggling in the WCC last season, BYU made the big transition into life in the Big 12 and were predicted to finish near the very bottom of the league. That certainly didn’t happen, with the Cougars finishing 10-8 and surprising all season long. A hot start was followed by big wins over Baylor, Kansas, and Iowa State as these Cougars proved that they belong right here.
Looking to make a good impression in their first Big 12 Tournament, the Cougars won 87-73 over UCF in their first game on Wednesday. An outstanding offensive performance saw a balanced effort, including 14 points and 10 rebounds from Fousseyni Traore. Unfortunately, BYU’s first experience would end in the quarterfinals, falling 81-67 against a tough Texas Tech team. Jaxson Robinson contributed 18 points and 5 rebounds in the loss.
BYU’s great season isn’t over yet and it’ll be interesting to see what exactly the Cougars do in the Big Dance. It’s their first trip in a few seasons after those recent struggles in the WCC, with this program clearly playing up to competition in their new league. The offense has been an efficient menace at times down the stretch, though how BYU’s defense plays will likely determine how long their season lasts.