Introduction

As the 2024-25 basketball season progresses, the BYU Cougars find themselves navigating the challenges of a competitive Big 12 landscape. In a noteworthy move, first-year head coach Kevin Young decided to adjust his starting lineup just before the crucial game against Oklahoma State (OSU). This change saw graduate transfer Mawot Mag take the place of 15-game starter Kanon Catchings, contributing to a significant 85-69 victory at the Marriott Center, attended by a roaring crowd of 16,457 fans.

Victory and Lineup Changes

With the win, the Cougars, now at 11-5 and 2-3 in Big 12 play, ended a disappointing three-game losing streak. This marked the fifth different starting lineup Young has deployed this season, reflecting his ongoing efforts to refine the team's chemistry and performance.

Mawot Mag's Impact

Mag's intensity on defense was pivotal in the Cougars sprinting to a commanding 42-15 lead early in the game. Young acknowledged that the strategy behind shifting Catchings to the second unit was to help him regain his offensive rhythm, stating, “Hopefully he can find some more offense in that group.”

Kanon Catchings' Struggles

Unfortunately, Catchings' performance in the game was marred by foul trouble. He recorded a flagrant one foul early in the first half and only managed to play a mere seven minutes, failing to convert his sole field goal attempt. Coach Young noted the challenges Catchings faces as a young player in trying to adapt, expressing confidence in his potential: “He is working hard, and I expect big things from him.”

Looking Ahead Against Utah

As the Cougars prepare for their next challenge against the Utah Utes, Young has not ruled out the possibility of Catchings returning to the starting lineup. Young remarked on Catchings' attitude, highlighting his coachability and dedication, saying, “He is extremely coachable and has done everything asked of him.”

Team Identity and Young Talent

BYU’s identity on the court continues to evolve, marked by moments of brilliance juxtaposed with bouts of inconsistency. Young addressed the unpredictable nature of the team, especially with two true freshmen — Catchings and Egor Demin — playing significant minutes. This factor contributes to the team's fluctuating performances, as demonstrated in the notable first half against OSU followed by a longer stretch of scoring struggles after halftime.

Egor Demin's Development

Demin, who had been recovering from a knee contusion that sidelined him for three games, showcased his improvement with a standout performance of 10 points, 8 assists, and 5 rebounds. Young has emphasized that Demin is adapting to the faster-paced Big 12 basketball as he learns to harness his talents against more aggressive opponents.

Future Prospects

With BYU veterans like Trevin Knell and Dallin Hall stepping up to lead the scoring efforts, coupled with the learning curves of their younger teammates, the team is hopeful for what lies ahead in March. The question remains: Can Demin and Catchings elevate their game to help the Cougars secure pivotal wins as they look forward to the postseason?

Conclusion

As the Cougar faithful eagerly anticipate the upcoming game against Utah, the emphasis on developing young talent remains crucial. Both players seem determined to rise to the occasion, with Demin stating, “I just want to be as effective as I can be. I know how I can play, and I'm looking to show that.” Could this be the turning point for the Cougars in their quest for postseason glory? Fans will surely be watching closely as the team heads into a critical stretch of games.