On Wednesday, the BYU Cougars will face off against the Oklahoma State Cowboys in Stillwater, Oklahoma. After suffering two consecutive losses to highly ranked teams, the Cougars are eager to reclaim their momentum.
According to KenPom, a leading name in college basketball analytics, BYU holds a 69% chance of winning, with a projected final score of 87-82. Currently, BYU is ranked 15th in KenPom”s metrics, showcasing their strength with an impressive 11th place in adjusted offensive efficiency and 34th in adjusted defensive efficiency.
In contrast, the Cowboys are positioned 57th in KenPom, with their offensive efficiency ranking at 62nd and their defensive efficiency at 84th. As BYU navigates the remainder of a challenging schedule, KenPom forecasts the Cougars will finish their last ten games with an average record of 6.2 wins to 3.8 losses. This projection would result in a season record of approximately 23.2 wins to 7.8 losses.
With 17 victories already secured and ten games left in the season, BYU has the potential to achieve as many as 27 wins in the regular season if they can win all remaining matchups. Realistically, aiming for 24 or 25 wins seems attainable, which would place them at 24-7 or 25-6 overall, solidifying their chances for a favorable seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament.
According to ESPN”s Basketball Power Index, BYU currently has the fifth best odds to capture the Big 12 title. Following their recent defeats to Arizona and Arizona State, the Cougars have a crucial stretch ahead with contests against Oklahoma State and Houston. Achieving victories in these matchups could be pivotal for BYU”s aspirations, positioning them closer to a top-four seed in the NCAA tournament. Conversely, losing both games could push them down to a 5 or 6 seed in the tournament bracket.
