As BYU basketball prepares for a crucial matchup, head coach Mark Pope has made it clear—his team must bring a new level of intensity and focus if they want to come out on top. With conference play heating up and March Madness looming, Pope knows that every game is critical for seeding, momentum, and proving BYU belongs among the nation’s elite.
During a recent press conference, Pope emphasized defensive execution, rebounding, and mental toughness as key areas for improvement. He acknowledged that while BYU has shown flashes of brilliance this season, consistency has been an issue. “We’ve got the talent, we’ve got the depth—but we have to bring that same energy and discipline every single night,” Pope said.
The Cougars face an opponent known for its physical play and fast-paced offense, which means BYU will need to control the tempo, limit turnovers, and dominate the glass. Pope has been vocal about the team’s defensive mindset, urging his players to step up against top-tier competition.
Star players like Dallin Hall and Jaxson Robinson will be expected to lead the charge, while the frontcourt battle will be crucial in determining the outcome. If BYU can lock in defensively, stay aggressive, and execute in clutch moments, they’ll have a strong chance of securing a much-needed win.
With BYU fans packing the Marriott Center, the energy will be electric. But for Pope and his squad, it all comes down to one thing—focus. “This is the time of year where you separate the good teams from the great ones,” Pope said. “We have to prove which one we are.”
