In an intense showdown, BYU achieved a thrilling victory over Iowa State, defeating them 88-85 in a double overtime match in Ames, Iowa. This triumph marks the seventh consecutive win for BYU, ranked No. 23. Richie Saunders demonstrated exceptional skill, leading BYU with 23 points. Dallin Hall made a significant impact coming off the bench, contributing 22 points to the game for the Cougars (22-8, 13-6 Big 12). Supporting their efforts, Egor Demin added 12 points, while Mawot Mag chipped in with 10.
Despite their efforts, Iowa State, ranked No. 10, fell short after showing resilience by overcoming a substantial 21-point deficit in the second half. Joshua Jefferson poured in 19 points for the Cyclones (22-8, 12-7), closely trailed by Milan Momcilovic’s impressive 18. Curtis Jones also contributed significantly from the bench with 16 points, Tamin Lipsey added 15, and Keshon Gilbert contributed 13 points and an impressive eight steals.
BYU’s victory was particularly noteworthy given their struggle with turnovers, recording a season-high 29 during the game. Nonetheless, their performance on the court, especially Keba Keita’s dominance in rebounding—securing 15 boards—helped them manage this shortfall. Iowa State, while exhibiting a remarkable 18 steals, ended up significantly being outrebounded 52-24.
A crucial moment came when BYU led by 11 points with six minutes to go, but Iowa State’s Milan Momcilovic stretched the game into overtime with a critical 3-pointer, leveling the score at 66 with merely 44 seconds left in regular time. The deciding point in the second overtime was Hall’s layup, executed just 21 seconds in. Two key free throws by Demin extended BYU’s lead to 87-83, solidifying their win with 2:04 remaining on the clock.
Richie Saunders displayed remarkable precision at the free-throw line, making all 13 attempts, accomplishing a personal season high. Looking ahead, BYU is set to host their longtime rivals Utah on Saturday, while Iowa State will be traveling to face Kansas State the same day.
