Previewing the 2017-18 BYU basketball backcourt

Elijah Bryant, Junior

2016-17 statistics: 23 games played (9 starts), 24.7 MPG, 11.7 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 2.2 APG

Bryant dealt with a number of injuries last season, which ultimately forced him to miss time and limited his effectiveness.

However, he showed some incredible flashes when he was healthy. From February 4 through March 4 (nine games), Bryant scored 10+ points in eight games, including a 39-point explosion against Portland – all while playing about 30 minutes per game.

There’s a lot of speculation that Bryant will be in the starting lineup for the Cougars this year, but I’d rather see him as the team’s sixth man. I would much prefer Bryant to stay healthy all year playing 22-28 minutes per night as opposed to 30-35 minutes at a higher risk of injury.

TJ Haws, Sophomore

2016-17 statistics: 34 games played (34 starts), 30.6 MPG 13.8 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 3.2 APG

For most, having a brother like Tyler Haws would mean you’re constantly playing under his shadow.

Not for TJ Haws.

Haws was great as a true freshman last season, and he’ll be key for BYU basketball over the next three seasons. He’s a good ball handler, great at getting to the basket and a solid 3-point shooter. This may be Nick Emery’s team, but Haws is the most talented guard on the roster.

I think the offense is much better when Haws is playing point guard. Not only does Emery play well off the ball, but Haws struggled with that last season.

There’s no reason to think Haws won’t be even better as a sophomore this season. He’ll be the most important piece for BYU basketball.