Texas Tech Triumphs Over BYU
In a thrilling matchup on Saturday evening, the 15th-ranked Texas Tech Red Raiders overcame the 11th-ranked BYU Cougars with a score of 84-71, marking a significant end to BYU’s impressive 13-game winning streak. JT Toppin shone brightly for Texas Tech, contributing a double-double by scoring 27 points and grabbing 12 rebounds.
Game Highlights
The Red Raiders, who improved to 14-4 overall and 4-1 within the Big 12, demonstrated resilience in the latter half of the game. Texas Tech’s victory not only showcased their prowess but also marked their fifth consecutive win over BYU, following three initial losses when the teams first clashed.
Christian Anderson and LeJuan Watts also made their mark on the game, scoring 22 and 20 points respectively. For BYU, Robert Wright III was the standout performer with 28 points; however, the team struggled as their leading scorer AJ Dybantsa was contained to just 13 points on a challenging shooting performance of 6-for-17.
The Cougars had not lost a regular-season Big 12 game since February of the previous year, when they fell 84-66 to Cincinnati, further emphasizing the significance of this matchup.
Turning Point
During the critical moments in the final 10 minutes, Texas Tech executed a remarkable 30-6 run. The Red Raiders were trailing 61-52 when Wright played a key role in a 16-2 run that seemed to position BYU for a victory. However, Texas Tech fought back, leveling the score at 63-63 thanks to free throws from Jaylen Petty, who was fouled while attempting a three-pointer, coupled with a three-point play by Toppin.
The game’s momentum shifted when Toppin hit a three-pointer to reclaim the lead for Texas Tech, which they would not relinquish. Watts further solidified their advantage by scoring another three-pointer and then stole possession to assist Anderson for another long-range shot, extending the lead to 72-65.
Richie Saunders added 18 points for BYU, yet the team suffered as Dybantsa scored only two points in the second half, shooting just 1-of-6.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, BYU will host Utah next Saturday, while Texas Tech heads to Baylor for their upcoming game this Tuesday night. This contest not only highlights the competitive nature of this season’s college basketball landscape but also sets the tone for the remainder of the Big 12 schedule.
