BYU basketball: 3 things left to enjoy in the Cougars’ season

Dec 10, 2016; Provo, UT, USA; Brigham Young Cougars guard TJ Haws (30) shoots the ball over Colorado Buffaloes guard Josh Fortune (44) during the second half at Marriott Center. Brigham Young won 79-71. Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 10, 2016; Provo, UT, USA; Brigham Young Cougars guard TJ Haws (30) shoots the ball over Colorado Buffaloes guard Josh Fortune (44) during the second half at Marriott Center. Brigham Young won 79-71. Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-USA TODAY Sports /
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Improvement

Jan 19, 2017; Provo, UT, USA; Pepperdine Waves forward Chris Reyes (14) tries to get past Brigham Young Cougars forward Eric Mika (12) during the second half at Marriott Center. Brigham Young Cougars won the game 99-70. Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-USA TODAY Sports
Chris Nicoll-USA TODAY Sports /

The issue with the Cougars has never been about the talent, just the teamwork. Youthful frailty has dogged BYU basketball this season, and has not been easily shaken off. But there will still be moments where suddenly, the Cougars look good.

Alley-oops, Haws magic passes, slick offensive sets, and transition buckets. And don’t forget the swat. If these can be combined with some elbow grease and the underdog’s chip, they may just get better. There is still time to gather momentum for next season, when all the main players will be back after a full offseason together. Chemistry kinks and defensive foibles can be slowly ironed out.