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3 takeaways from BYU’s 95-67 win over Fresno State


Brigham Young Cougars guard Elijah Crawford (2) gets past Fresno State Bulldogs guard Jasir Tremble (0) and Fresno State Bulldogs forward Elijah Price (3) for a layup as BYU and Fresno State play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024.

Brigham Young Cougars guard Elijah Crawford (2) gets past Fresno State Bulldogs guard Jasir Tremble (0) and Fresno State Bulldogs forward Elijah Price (3) for a layup as BYU and Fresno State play at the Marriott Center in Provo on Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU is back in the win column.

The Cougars rebounded from last week’s blowout loss at Providence with a convincing 95-67 victory over Fresno State Wednesday night in Provo.

3 takeaways

Trevin Knell was terrific. The 26-year-old senior enjoyed one of the finest performances of his career, leading all scorers with 22 points and 10 rebounds for his first-ever double-double. Knell shot 8 of 11 from the field and 4 of 6 from deep, swiping three steals while remaining completely turnover-free.

BYU’s offense was as balanced as it’s been all season. Six different Cougars — Knell, Kanon Catchings, Keba Keita, Richie Saunders, Dallin Hall and Dawson Baker — all reached double figures in scoring. BYU hit 41.2% of its 3-pointers and made 24 of 35 2-point shots, including 16 of the first 20 attempts.

Additionally, Kevin Young’s squad held Fresno State to 35% shooting and won the rebounding battle by an eye-popping 50-27 margin.

Turnovers continue to plague the Cougars. BYU coughed up at least 10 turnovers for the sixth time in nine games, tying a season high with 17 against the Bulldogs. Considering how well the Cougars shot, rebounded and defended Wednesday night, improving their ball security is the biggest hurdle to becoming a much more formidable squad.



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