What's Happening?
The BYU Cougars basketball team is set to face the West Virginia Mountaineers in a crucial conference game on Saturday, February 28, 2026. The game will be broadcast on FOX at 3:30 PM Mountain Time, with radio coverage provided by BYU Radio and KSL News
Radio. The Cougars, currently ranked 21st in KenPom, are looking to recover from a recent loss to UCF, which marked their worst performance of the season. Despite recent defensive struggles, BYU remains strong offensively, ranked 9th nationally in adjusted offensive efficiency. KenPom analytics give BYU a 61% chance of winning against WVU, predicting a close final score of 73-70. The Mountaineers, ranked 64th in KenPom, are known for their defensive prowess, ranking 23rd in adjusted defensive efficiency.
Why It's Important?
This game is significant for BYU as it could impact their seeding in the upcoming NCAA Tournament. With a current record of 20 wins, BYU has the potential to finish the regular season with up to 23 wins if they win their remaining games. A victory against WVU would not only boost their confidence but also improve their chances of securing a higher seed in the tournament. The Cougars' recent defensive issues have seen them drop from a top 15 ranking in adjusted defensive efficiency to 54th, highlighting the importance of this game as a potential turning point. A win could help BYU regain momentum and solidify their position as a strong contender in the postseason.
What's Next?
Following the game against WVU, BYU will face Cincinnati on the road and then host Texas Tech in their regular season finale. These games are crucial as they will determine BYU's final standing and seeding in the NCAA Tournament. The Cougars need to address their defensive shortcomings to ensure success in these upcoming matchups. The outcome of these games will be closely watched by analysts and fans, as they could significantly influence BYU's postseason trajectory.
