Cougar Comeback: BYU's Explosive Start Under New Leadership

Nov 6, 2024 at 4:37 AM
The Kevin Young era at BYU has kicked off with a resounding victory, as the Cougars cruised to an 88-50 win over Central Arkansas. This convincing triumph marks Young's first career victory as a college head coach, setting the stage for a promising season ahead.

Elevating the Game: BYU's Explosive Debut Under New Leadership

Egor Demin Dazzles in Debut

The highly anticipated arrival of freshman phenom Egor Demin has lived up to the hype. Demin, a potential NBA Draft prospect, showcased his dynamic skillset in his BYU debut, scoring a team-high 18 points, swiping four steals, and dishing out 11 assists as the Cougars' primary ball handler. His performance was nothing short of mesmerizing, as he played with the poise and command of a seasoned veteran. Demin's seamless integration into the BYU offense has left onlookers in awe, and his potential to become an all-time program great is undeniable.

Cougars Unleash Barrage of Three-Pointers

The Cougars' offensive firepower was on full display, as they launched an impressive 44 three-point attempts, converting 15 of them for a 34% clip. Demin and fellow freshman Kanon Catchings each drained four shots from beyond the arc, while Richie Saunders added three more makes. This three-point onslaught demonstrated the Cougars' commitment to a high-octane, perimeter-oriented attack, a strategy that could prove to be a formidable weapon in their arsenal.

Dominance in the Paint

While the Cougars' outside shooting was a highlight, their performance in the paint was equally impressive. BYU outscored Central Arkansas 36-16 in the paint, showcasing their ability to control the interior. The tandem of Keba Keita and Fouss Traore combined for 12 points, 16 rebounds, and three blocks, leading the defensive charge and establishing a strong presence in the low post. The Cougars' rebounding prowess was also on display, as they outrebounded their opponents 49-31, including 20 offensive boards.The Cougars' well-rounded offensive attack, coupled with their defensive tenacity, has set the stage for a promising season under the guidance of Kevin Young. As the team continues to gel and build chemistry, the potential for this squad to make a significant impact in the college basketball landscape is palpable. With Egor Demin's star power, the Cougars' three-point barrage, and their dominance in the paint, BYU has showcased the ingredients for a successful campaign that could redefine the program's trajectory.