BYU basketball travels for a road battle with Arizona State
BYU is rolling. They have won four in a row, including a major upset of the Arizona Wildcats in Tuscon. BYU made two clutch free throws before intercepting a Wildcat inbound to win 96-95. BYU now shifts its focus to Arizona State and the Sun Devils.
BYU has a good look right now, with wins stacking up. The Cougars have found their groove from three and Keba Keita is dominating down low. BYU is getting better from the free-throw line and is unafraid to get physical. While there are still some questions on defense, the Cougars are also looking better there.
BYU beat Arizona State in their Big 12 opener 76-56. Richie Saunders had a career-high 30 points and Keba Keita grabbed ten rebounds and blocked a shot. It was a close game until BYU pulled away near the end. Arizona State will be looking to avenge the loss in Provo on their home court. Let’s look at how the Cougars could prevent a bad loss:
Keys to the game at Arizona State:
1. Get hot early: BYU does a lot better when they start the game hot. It worked against Kansas, where the Cougars went up big and never looked back. BYU is good at the hot starts at home but has struggled on the road. BYU needs to get hot as quickly as they can and build a big lead.
2. Stay sound defensively: BYU tends to get disorganized defensively. BYU has to tighten up the defense and communicate constantly. The Cougars have shown that they can play solid defense. As the season progresses, they will need to play lights-out defense.
3. Move the ball: BYU is at their best when they are moving the ball. The Cougars are efficient and productive when they are moving the ball and finding the best shot they can.
BYU has a good chance to beat Arizona State, but they will need to stay focused and not get ahead of themselves. BYU looks like an NCAA Tournament team but can’t afford to let up now.
BYU Basketball will be in action tomorrow night at Arizona State. That game is at 7:30 pm and will be streamed on ESPN+.
