In the 2024-25 season, BYU basketball has been making waves. After a thrilling victory over Wyoming at the Delta Center, the team stands at 8-2 overall. Let's take a closer look at some of the key moments and players from this remarkable season.

BYU Basketball's Comeback and Growth in the 2024-25 Season

Mag's Breakout Performance

Rutgers transfer Mawot Mag has faced challenges during non-conference play but had a breakout performance against Wyoming. Thrown into the rotation after Richie Saunders' lacerated lip in the game's opening minute, Mag scored 11 points on 4-of-5 shooting from the field and 3-of-4 from three-point range. He also had three rebounds, one assist, one block, and one steal in 23 minutes. This was a season-high for the grad transfer, and BYU coach Kevin Young was inspired by his contribution. "He's been dealt a tough hand so far, and he's coming back off an injury. He just hasn't found his footing. But he had a great attitude. It was really inspiring," said Young.Mag's performance shows his potential and could lead to more minutes in the rotation going forward. It's a testament to his hard work and determination.

Baker's Offensive Prowess

With Egor Demin out with a knee contusion, BYU's guard line, including Dallin Hall, Elijah Crawford, and Dawson Baker, has had to step up. Baker had a strong showing on the offensive end against Wyoming, scoring 11 points all in the second half. The former UC Irvine transfer is healthy after a foot injury that kept him out last season. His ability to score in bunches in a quick spurt is a positive development as BYU moves closer to Big 12 play. It gives the team another scoring option and adds depth to the guard rotation.

Knell's Return and Performance

Egor Demin's injury allowed Trevin Knell to return to the starting five. The veteran guard recorded his first double-double earlier this week against Fresno State and scored 15 points against Wyoming, shooting 3-of-4 from three. Young doesn't subscribe to the notion that Knell needs to start to find his shot. "I think he's going to make a shot, whether he starts, comes off the bench, or is at the playground," said Young. Knell is shooting 44.7% from three this season, which is a significant contribution to the team's offense.

Learning from First Half Struggles

At the midway point of the first half against Wyoming, BYU had 27 points but struggled in the final 9:46, scoring only seven points. The team had three turnovers on three consecutive possessions near the end of the first half, allowing Wyoming to trim a 14-point lead down to nine at halftime. "That last four-minute stretch wasn't great for us offensively; weird combinations, probably poor subbing on my part," said Young. However, in the second half, BYU shot 50% from three and 45.5% from the field and took better care of possessions. This is a good learning opportunity for the team as they prepare for Big 12 play. It shows the importance of maintaining focus and execution throughout the game.

Defensive Improvement

BYU limited Wyoming to only 49 points, holding the Pokes to 25% from three-point range. This is the second time this season that BYU has held an opponent under 50 points. After the loss to Providence, which was a "plant the flag" moment for the team on defense, the early returns have been positive. Kevin Young pointed out that defense can always travel, and the team's focus on defense has paid off. "I think the Providence game was a good moment for us to really dig into our defensive side and find our identity," said BYU guard Dawson Baker. "We definitely reaped the awards tonight holding a team under 50."Overall, BYU basketball is showing great promise in the 2024-25 season. With players like Mag, Baker, Knell, and a strong defensive effort, the team is well-positioned for success in the Big 12 Conference.