Houston Cougars vs Byu Cougars Picks and Predictions January 4th 2025

No. 14 Houston, with New, Stellar Backcourt, Takes on BYU

Houston’s backcourt is making waves as the No. 14 Cougars (9-3, 1-0 Big 12) prepare to host BYU on Saturday in their Big 12 home opener. Guards L.J. Cryer and Milos Uzan showcased their skills in a dominant defensive effort during Monday’s 60-47 road win against Oklahoma State, combining for 30 points.

Building a Formidable Backcourt

Cryer, a transfer from Baylor, has taken Uzan under his wing, much like Jamal Shead (now in the NBA) did for him last season. The pair has quickly become a cornerstone for Houston, fitting into coach Kelvin Sampson’s defense-first philosophy.

“They learn from each other,” Sampson said. “The culture we’ve built here emphasizes brotherhood and helping one another through tough times.”

Houston’s defense has been particularly imposing during their current five-game winning streak, holding opponents to just 48 points per game. Against Oklahoma State, the Cougars limited the Cowboys to a dismal 25.9 percent shooting, including a stretch of 10 consecutive missed shots in the first half.

Bet Smarter with NCAAB Expert Picks! Get top advice with NCAAB basketball expert picks.

Sampson remains optimistic about his team’s growth.

“I think our team is progressing. We have a chance to get a lot better,” he said. “Improvement comes from consistent work, and we just have to stay with it.”

BYU’s Offensive Firepower

BYU (10-2, 1-0) is coming off a 76-56 win over Arizona State, led by Richie Saunders’ 30-point performance. Saunders, back from a concussion, shot 11-for-18 from the field, including 6 of 11 from beyond the arc, while adding six rebounds.

The Cougars boast a balanced offensive attack with five players averaging double figures: Saunders (13.9 points per game), Egor Demin (12.2), Kanon Catchings (11.2), Fousseyni Traore (11.1), and Trevin Knell (10.3). Traore, despite his impactful play, has started only one game this season.

Frustrated With Your Results?

Access NCAAB Picks That Deliver Wins!

Join Now!

When BYU hits its stride, the team’s offense can be electric, averaging 84.8 points per game while allowing just 64.0.

“We have a good basketball team with talent, chemistry, and potential,” BYU coach Kevin Young said. “I challenged them to play with extreme confidence because of those factors.”

Key Matchup Factors

• Houston’s Defense vs. BYU’s Balance: The Cougars’ smothering defense will face a tough test against BYU’s multifaceted offense.
• Backcourt Battle: Cryer and Uzan’s growing chemistry will need to counter Saunders’ sharpshooting and BYU’s depth at guard.
• Momentum and Confidence: Both teams enter with a strong sense of identity but must continue proving their worth in Big 12 play.

Historical Context

This will mark the first Big 12 meeting between the teams, adding extra intrigue to an already compelling matchup. With Houston’s defensive dominance and BYU’s offensive explosiveness, Saturday’s game promises to be a clash of styles that could set the tone for their respective conference campaigns.