BYU Basketball vs. Utah State Final: Cougars out muscles the Aggies 77-63

BYU got back on track tonight with a win against Utah State at Vivint SmartHome Arena in Salt Lake City. Most importantly, BYU’s defensive effort was much improved since Saturday, allowing only 31 points in the first half and 63 in the game.

The offensive effort was slow at first, BYU only hit 1 of 11 (9.1 percent) from three-point range in the first half but dominated the Aggies down low with 28 points in the paint and out rebounded them 30 to 16. The Cougars ended up winning the rebounding battle 55 to 31 for the game.

The second half was more of the same, the Cougars dominated the glass and made 23 of 26 from the foul line to close out the game. BYU’s three-point shooting improved slightly thanks to LJ Rose and Nick Emery hitting a few from distance.

Jamal Aytes, Davin Guinn, and Braiden Shaw contributed some important minutes throughout the game, with Shaw scoring eight points in a row to end the first half.

LJ Rose continues to impress in his first season in Cougar blue. Tonight he contributed 18 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists and went 10 of 11 from the foul line. His dependability, unselfish play, and leadership compliment the rest of the roster perfectly.

BYU will face the USC Trojans on Saturday at 6 PM at the Staples Center.