BYU beats North Carolina State to extend winning streak
- BYU defeated North Carolina State University 72-61, increasing their overall record to 6-1.
- Richie Saunders led BYU with 13 points, while Egor Denim contributed 11 rebounds to their effort.
- This victory marked BYU's 20th consecutive win against non-conference opponents.
On Friday, November 29, 2024, in San Diego, California, Brigham Young University (BYU) faced off against North Carolina State University (N.C. State) in the third-place game of the Rady Children's Invitational. BYU, maintaining strong momentum throughout the game, claimed victory with a final score of 72-61. The Cougars showcased a solid performance, particularly in the second half, where they outscored N.C. State early on, establishing a significant 20-plus point lead. Richie Saunders led the charge for BYU with 13 points, supported by reserve Fousseyni Traore who contributed 10 points. Egor Denim was instrumental in rebounding for the team, securing 11 rebounds in total. N.C. State's effort was highlighted by Michael O’Connell and Jayden Taylor, each contributing 16 points to their struggling offense. Despite their scoring capabilities, the Wolfpack were unable to keep pace with BYU’s effective play and strong defensive strategies. The BYU Cougars, now with a record of 6-1, have extended their winning streak against non-conference opponents to 20 games. This impressive run emphasizes their dominance against teams outside their conference and positions them as a formidable competitor in the upcoming games. The victory not only solidifies BYU's early season success but also reflects the team's depth and ability to respond under pressure. With players stepping up to support the main scorers, BYU has demonstrated a balanced offense that should prove beneficial as they move forward in the season. As they look ahead to the rest of their schedule, maintaining this level of performance will be critical for their continued success both in non-conference play and during the conference season. This victory against N.C. State contributes positively to BYU’s momentum and will undoubtedly boost their confidence as they prepare for further challenges. The team's consistent showing highlights their preparedness and ability to perform in critical situations, setting high expectations for what lies ahead this season.