After dropping two consecutive games, BYU looks to turn the tide in a major way by defeating Utah at home.
The matchup will be anything but easy — not only because of the timeless blue-versus-red rivalry pressure, but also because of Utah’s significant momentum coming into the game.
The Utes are coming off an upset over No. 22 West Virginia, winning 77-64. West Virginia recently handed BYU a loss on Jan. 24 by a score of 91-77. Utah’s victory marked its second Top-25 win of the season, with the first coming against then-No. 8 TCU.
Adding to the challenge for BYU is the fact that Utah has come out on top in the last four times the two programs have gone toe-to-toe. The Cougars' most recent victory in the rivalry came back in 2021.
So the question remains: will Utah’s momentum prevail, or will BYU’s desire for redemption win out in the end?
The last time the Cougars and Utes met, Delaney Gibb was the standout performer, cashing in a double-double with 36 points and 10 rebounds. Now a returning sophomore, Gibb remained impactful this season, despite battling injury earlier in the season.
Gibb’s presence, combined with head coach Lee Cummard’s talented group of freshmen offensive contributors, could be enough to snap BYU’s losing streak against its rivals to the north.
The true key to success, however, may lie on the defensive end of the game. With seven Utah players shooting 50% or higher this season, few shots can be left uncontested.
Senior Utah guard Lani White is the primary offensive threat to contain. She leads the Utes with 106 made field goals and is shooting 46.3% from the floor.
Defense has been the name of the game for the Cougars this season. BYU has held 17 of its 21 opponents to under 70 points, finding considerable success in those contests.
This defensive strength, paired with disciplined offense and minimal turnovers, could be the perfect antidote to Utah’s scoring ability. Either way, the matchup promises to be a battle of wits.
Tipoff at the Marriott Center is set for Saturday at 2 p.m. MST.