In an electrifying Big 12 opener, BYU stunned Arizona State with a dominant performance led by Richie Saunders’ career-high and an impenetrable defense. The Cougars showcased their defensive prowess and offensive firepower in a hard-fought 75-68 victory, setting the tone for their conference journey.
Richie Saunders, who had been quietly impressive all season, turned in his best performance yet. The sophomore guard exploded for a career-high 22 points, demonstrating his improved scoring ability and composure under pressure. Saunders’ shooting was on fire, hitting crucial three-pointers and free throws at pivotal moments to keep the momentum in BYU’s favor. His ability to drive to the basket and finish through contact also added to his impressive stat line, leaving Arizona State defenders scrambling to contain him.
But it wasn’t just Saunders who made a difference. BYU’s defense was nothing short of spectacular, particularly in the second half. Arizona State, a team known for its explosive offense, struggled to find any rhythm against the Cougars’ suffocating defense. Led by standout performances from the team’s backcourt and forwards, BYU managed to stifle the Sun Devils’ key players, forcing them into contested shots and turnovers. Arizona State’s leading scorer was held to just 12 points, far below his season average, as the Cougars made sure every possession was a battle.
The game was tightly contested throughout, with Arizona State briefly leading early in the second half. However, BYU’s resilience, combined with their defensive intensity, slowly wore down the Sun Devils. The Cougars’ offense was efficient, using clock control and sharp ball movement to create open shots and secure the win.
This victory marks a significant milestone for BYU as they begin their Big 12 campaign. With standout performances from Saunders and the defense, they’ve proven they can compete at the highest level, sending a strong message to the rest of the conference. If they continue to build on this momentum, BYU could very well be a force to reckon with in the Big 12 this season.
