Byu Cougars vs Wyoming Cowboys Picks and Predictions December 14th 2024

Without Egor Demin, BYU renews rivalry with Wyoming

BYU basketball is set to rekindle its historic rivalry against former conference foe Wyoming this Saturday in Salt Lake City. The Cougars, riding the momentum of a commanding win, will face the Cowboys without one of their key players, Egor Demin. This matchup promises to test both teams as they grapple with challenges and seek to solidify their early-season form.

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Egor Demin’s Absence: A Key Factor for BYU

BYU will once again be without Egor Demin, a projected lottery pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and the team’s second-leading scorer. Demin sustained a knee contusion in the Cougars’ 83-64 loss to Providence on Dec. 3. Head coach Kevin Young has confirmed that Demin, who averages 13.3 points and a team-high 5.8 assists, is not expected to return until BYU’s Big 12 opener against Arizona State on Dec. 31.

“It could have been a lot worse,” Young remarked. “We’re lucky it wasn’t something more serious.”

While Demin’s absence is significant, BYU’s offense thrived in their most recent outing. In a 95-67 victory over Fresno State, the Cougars shot an impressive 55.1% from the field and nailed 14-of-34 three-pointers. Senior guard Trevin Knell led the way with his first career double-double, scoring 22 points and grabbing 10 rebounds.

Wyoming’s Struggles in Close Contests

Wyoming enters the game with a 5-4 record and three consecutive losses. These defeats, however, have been heartbreakingly close, with a combined margin of just seven points. Most recently, the Cowboys fell 82-81 on the road against South Dakota, highlighting their difficulty in closing out tight games.

Senior guard Obi Agbim has been the backbone of Wyoming’s offense, leading the team in scoring in seven of their nine games. Agbim also shines as a playmaker, posting five games as the team’s assist leader. His recent performances, including a 17-point, 10-assist double-double against Utah State, underscore his importance to the Cowboys’ success.

“Obi is our leader,” said teammate Jordan Nesbitt. “We’re gonna follow his lead all season long.”

Rivalry Renewed: BYU vs. Wyoming

The BYU-Wyoming rivalry has deep roots, dating back to their time as conference opponents in the Mountain West. BYU holds a dominant 106-69 all-time series lead and has proven successful in neutral-site matchups, boasting a 5-2 record against the Cowboys. Last season, the Cougars defeated Wyoming decisively, 94-68, in Provo.

For Wyoming, this is an opportunity to avenge last year’s loss and regain confidence after their recent struggles. For BYU, it’s a chance to build on their current momentum and showcase their depth in Demin’s absence.

Key Matchups and Strategies

• Trevin Knell vs. Wyoming’s Defense: With Demin out, Knell’s offensive output will be crucial. His ability to stretch the floor with three-point shooting could open up opportunities for other BYU players.
• Obi Agbim’s Leadership: Wyoming’s chances hinge on Agbim’s ability to penetrate BYU’s defense and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.
• Closing Games: Wyoming must improve its late-game execution to overcome BYU’s defensive resilience and depth.

What to Expect on Game Day

Both teams have much to prove. BYU’s efficient offense, even without Demin, makes them a formidable opponent. Meanwhile, Wyoming’s recent string of close losses suggests that they are competitive but need to capitalize in clutch moments. The neutral-site setting in Salt Lake City adds another layer of intrigue, as both fan bases are likely to show strong support.

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Conclusion

Saturday’s game between BYU and Wyoming is more than just a midseason matchup—it’s a test of adaptability and resilience for both programs. BYU will aim to extend their dominance in the rivalry, while Wyoming seeks redemption and a much-needed win. As Egor Demin continues to recover, this game offers an opportunity for BYU’s depth to shine and for Wyoming to prove they can execute in critical moments.