BYU Cougars Snap Losing Streak
In a thrilling matchup in Waco, Texas, the No. 22 ranked BYU Cougars managed to snap their four-game losing streak by overcoming Baylor with a narrow 99-94 victory on Tuesday night. The game was highlighted by outstanding performances from both AJ Dybantsa and Robert Wright III.
Key Performances
Dybantsa impressed with 36 points, while Wright notched a personal best of 30 points despite facing a hostile reception from the Baylor crowd, who expressed their discontent every time he received the ball. Wright had previously chosen to leave Baylor, where he had played his freshman year, leading to the raucous booing and chants of “traitor” from the Baylor fans during the game.
Game Highlights
BYU, now holding a record of 18 wins and 6 losses (6-5 in the Big 12), had to overcome a challenging start, trailing by 12 points early on. Key contributions also came from teammate Richie Saunders, who scored 15 points and pulled down 9 rebounds. His critical layup following a steal from Baylor’s Cameron Carr gave the Cougars a decisive lead shortly after the halftime break.
Initially, Baylor had made an impressive start, shooting 71% from the field and building their largest lead of 12 points, but they faltered, shooting only 16.7% in the final moments of the first half, resulting in a 41-41 tie at halftime.
Baylor’s Struggles
For Baylor, who is now at a disappointing 13-11 overall (3-9 in the Big 12), freshman Tounde Yessoufou shined with a season-high 37 points, while Cameron Carr contributed 24 points. Despite a late surge that cut a 17-point deficit to just four points with under five minutes left, the Bears were unable to secure the win, marking their fifth home defeat in the Big 12 this season.
Looking Ahead
As both teams look ahead, BYU will next host Colorado on Saturday, while Baylor is set for a neutral-site clash against No. 24 Louisville in Fort Worth on the same day.
