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BYU's New Star Delivers 33-Point Statement Against Ohio State
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- BYU's New Star Delivers 33-Point Statement Against Ohio State
BYU began the men's college basketball season with one of opening night's most impressive offensive performances, defeating No. 18 Ohio State 94-83 in Salt Lake City. The Cougars trailed at halftime and faced an early 11-point deficit, but their second-half response changed the game.
Rob Wright led the comeback with 33 points and five assists, delivering the kind of performance that immediately attracts national attention. Wright shot 9-for-15 from the field, made four of five 3-point attempts and converted 11 of 12 free throws.
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He also committed only one turnover.
Those numbers demonstrated an unusual combination of scoring aggression and offensive control. For a BYU program seeking another strong season in the Big 12, Wright's performance provided an encouraging indication of what the Cougars might accomplish.
Wright Took Control After Halftime
Ohio State led 37-34 at halftime. The Buckeyes had established early momentum and appeared capable of earning a significant road victory.
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But BYU's offense became increasingly effective after the break.
The Cougars scored 60 second-half points, overwhelming Ohio State with improved shooting and offensive execution.
Wright was central to that turnaround. His ability to score from the perimeter and attack the basket forced Ohio State to adjust defensively.
Those adjustments created opportunities for other BYU players.
Five Starters Reached Double Figures
Wright was not the only contributor. Tyler Betsey and Collin Chandler scored 15 points apiece. Bruce Branch added 12, while Jaxon Kohler finished with 11.
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All five BYU starters reached double figures.
That balance made the Cougars difficult to defend, particularly when Wright was creating advantages with the ball.
BYU shot 54% from the field and 46% from beyond the arc. The Cougars also committed only eight turnovers.
A Victory With National Implications
Defeating a ranked opponent on opening night provides BYU with an early résumé-building victory. The result also demonstrates that the Cougars have the offensive potential to compete against strong competition.
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However, the performance was not flawless.
Ohio State found success attacking the interior, exposing an area BYU must continue improving. The Cougars cannot assume that scoring 94 points will become routine against every opponent.
But Wright's debut performance provides an important foundation. That could become one of the program's greatest advantages this season.
BYU has a guard capable of taking control of games.
Related: Trae Young Open to Talking With AJ Dybantsa Over His Request
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Related: BYU's AJ Dybantsa Makes College Basketball History in NCAA Tournament
This story was originally published by Athlon on Nov 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the College Basketball section. Add Athlon as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
