In a crucial matchup on March 15, 2024, the Brigham Young University (BYU) basketball team showcased the depth of its roster, achieving a stunning victory against Iowa State University. The Cougars triumphed with a final score that highlighted the significant contributions from role players, compensating for the absence of their leading scorer, Richie Saunders, who is sidelined with a season-ending injury.
Throughout the season, BYU has been recognized for its explosive scoring trio, featuring AJ Dybantsa, Rob Wright III, and Saunders, who collectively averaged an impressive 61.3 points per game. With Saunders unavailable, the onus was on the remaining players to elevate their performance. Dybantsa responded magnificently, recording a near triple-double with 29 points, 10 rebounds, and 9 assists.
While Dybantsa shone, Wright struggled against Iowa State’s physical defense, managed by Tamin Lipsey. He finished the game with just 6 points, all scored in the first half. This left Kevin Young, BYU’s head coach, needing significant support from his bench players, which they delivered exceptionally well.
The contributions from the role players were noteworthy, as they combined for 44 points, matching their highest tally against a Power Five opponent this season. Earlier in the year, the team had achieved the same against Wisconsin, but the context of the Iowa State game made this performance particularly significant.
Kennard Davis, a starting guard, had one of his standout games, contributing 17 points and making three crucial three-pointers. His scoring in the closing moments helped secure the win. Davis, who previously averaged 18 points per game last season, is expected to take on a larger role in the wake of Saunders’ injury.
Early in the game, Mihailo Boskovic also helped set the tone, hitting his first three-pointer to give BYU an early lead. Despite a mid-game slump that saw him miss six consecutive attempts from beyond the arc, Boskovic redeemed himself with a pivotal three-pointer late in the contest, effectively sealing the game as Iowa State attempted to mount a comeback.
In addition to the scoring, Khadim Mboup made a significant impact on the boards, grabbing 10 rebounds in just 17 minutes on the court. While he only scored 5 points, his presence was felt as BYU out-rebounded Iowa State 39-28. Unfortunately, Mboup left the game in the final minutes due to what appeared to be an ankle injury, casting uncertainty on his availability for upcoming matches.
The performance against Iowa State not only demonstrated the resilience of BYU’s roster but also highlighted the team’s potential as they look ahead to the critical games in March. With emerging talents stepping up, BYU aims to build momentum as they seek to make a deep run in the postseason.
