The BYU Cougars continued their impressive run in the Big 12 Conference with a decisive 91-81 victory over the Arizona State Sun Devils . The game, played on January 7, 2026, marked BYU's fifth straight win and showcased the team's offensive prowess and defensive resilience .
The Cougars, ranked No. 9, have been on a remarkable 10-game winning streak, their best run in nearly 15 years . This victory was particularly noteworthy as it took place at the Marriott Center, the Cougars' home court, and served as their Big 12 Conference home opener .
Leading the charge for BYU was Richie Saunders, who scored 26 points, including six 3-pointers, demonstrating his critical role in the team's success . Trevin Knell added 18 points, providing essential support and highlighting the depth of BYU's talent .
The Sun Devils, who entered the game with a 9-5 overall record and a 0-1 Big 12 record, faced an uphill battle from the start . They lost their conference opener to Colorado 95-89, and their struggles continued against BYU .
BYU's victory was not only a testament to their offensive firepower but also to their defensive capabilities. The Cougars were able to limit Arizona State's scoring opportunities, particularly from beyond the arc, which played a significant role in securing the win .
The Cougars' winning streak and dominant performance against Arizona State have solidified their standing in the Big 12 Conference. With key players like Saunders and Knell leading the way, BYU is poised to make a strong push for the conference title .
