BYU basketball: The five biggest games of the year in Provo
By Adam Gibby
Number 3: Saint Mary’s, December 30
This would be ranked No. 2 but it is on December 30, so the ROC section will be depleted and many season ticket holders will be away traveling during this game.
Saint Mary’s will very likely be ranked when they come to Provo. At this point in the season, BYU basketball will hopefully be in a pretty good spot. Without a lot of really difficult games early, this game could be what puts the Cougars in the discussion for the NCAA tournament.
Saint Mary’s always plays the Cougars really well and there is little reason to believe that it will be any different this year. If the Cougars win this game, especially if the Gaels are ranked at this point, then BYU will – if nothing else – show that they are good enough to beat good teams and should appear to be at least on the bubble for the NCAA Tournament.
Even if they lose in a close game, the Cougars could gain a lot of respect nationally. I am projecting this game as the most important regular season game of the year for BYU basketball.