No. 19 BYU gets blown out at home as UCF makes 14 3-pointers in a 97-84 win - AP News
AP News
February 25, 2026
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No. 19 BYU suffered a surprising defeat at home against UCF, falling 97-84 in a game highlighted by UCF's strong three-point shooting. The Knights made an impressive 14 three-pointers, fueling their dominance on the court. This loss marked a significant setback for BYU, which entered the game with high expectations. Despite their ranking and home-court advantage, the Cougars struggled to contain UCF's offensive output, particularly from beyond the arc.
UCF's performance was a masterclass in shooting accuracy, as they connected on 14 out of 28 attempted three-pointers, including several critical baskets in the second half to extend their lead. Meanwhile, BYU's defense appeared disjointed, allowing UCF to shoot at an unusually high clip. The Cougars also struggled offensively, missing key opportunities to rally and close the gap. Their inability to match UCF's scoring pace ultimately led to their downfall.
The loss raises questions about BYU's readiness for the challenges ahead, particularly against teams with strong three-point shooting capabilities. For UCF, this win could be a turning point, boosting their confidence in conference play. The game underscores the importance of defensive discipline and offensive efficiency in college basketball, highlighting how even a highly ranked team can falter if they fail to address these areas. Fans and analysts will be closely watching both teams as they move forward in their respective seasons.
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Originally published on AP News on 2/25/2026