BYU survives thriller to advance to Sweet 16 for first time since 2011

In a thrilling NCAA tournament match held in Denver, Utah, on March 22, 2025, BYU Cougars narrowly defeated Wisconsin Badgers 91-89. This marked BYU's first advancement to the Sweet 16 since 2011, showcasing their resilience against a strong performance from Wisconsin's John Tonje, who scored an impressive 37 points. The game was tightly contested, with both teams exchanging leads throughout. Wisconsin's late-game surge nearly altered the outcome, but Tonje's desperate attempt to tie the game at the buzzer fell short, allowing BYU to secure the win and focus on their upcoming challenge against either Alabama or St. Mary's next Thursday in Newark for the East Regional. BYU's victory came from a strong offensive outing, where they averaged 83.8 points over their last ten games, highlighting their scoring capabilities going into the tournament. Richmond's performance in this match was bolstered by Richie Saunders, who contributed 25 points, further solidifying BYU's position in the Sweet 16. Wisconsin, despite a respectable season record of 27-9, fell short against the Cougars, being unable to capitalize on their scoring abilities. Ultimately, the outcome is a significant step forward for BYU, emphasizing their growth in a competitive collegiate basketball landscape. The matchup drew attention not only for the skills demonstrated by both teams but also for the implications regarding tournament rankings and potential future upsets. Coaches and analysts alike noted the importance of defensive rebounds in tight games like this one, with BYU's Keba Keita leading the way in defensive contributions. Wisconsin had entered the tournament with a solid combination of experience and strategy, but their inability to execute in the final moments led to their downfall. As the tournament progresses, BYU now shifts its focus to preparing for their next opponent, underscoring the importance of maintaining momentum. The excitement surrounding their tournament run recalls memories of previous athletes, notably Jimmer Fredette, and highlights the continuous evolution of BYU’s basketball program in striving for success in highly competitive environments.