Shooting funk plagues Cougars in 73-69 loss at Utah

BYU’s worst shooting night of the season could not have come at a worse time.

It’s one thing to lose to arch-rival Utah. Losing by four points is another.

However, to lose while missing eight free throw attempts and hitting just seven of 30 tries from 3-point range is understandably disappointing.

Such was the case for the Cougars Saturday in Salt Lake, falling 73-69 to the Runnin’ Utes for their first loss of the season.

Even while winning the rebounding battle against a much taller Utah team and forcing 13 turnovers, shooting just 36.6% from the field and 23.3% from deep ended up costing BYU everything.

The typically sharpshooting Trevin Knell and Noah Waterman combined to go 0-10 from behind the arc. Spencer Johnson and Dallin Hall each finished 4-12 in shooting as well.

While the Cougars lost their undefeated start to the season, they’ll have plenty of time to make any necessary adjustments prior to heading into Big 12 play on Jan. 6.

“I have a little more confidence than ever that we have a chance to grow into a really good team,” head coach Mark Pope said. “I’m excited for that.”