DENVER — In a thrilling matchup that had fans on the edge of their seats, BYU has made history by winning their first NCAA Tournament game in 12 years. The Cougars secured a convincing 80-71 victory against No. 11 seed VCU on Thursday, propelling them to the second round where they will face off against Wisconsin this Saturday.

3 Key Takeaways:

1. **Offensive Powerhouse**: BYU’s offense proved to be too much for VCU’s defense, marking the first time this season that the Rams allowed more than 80 points. The Cougars exhibited impressive shooting, hitting 50% from the field and 35% from beyond the arc. With standout performances from Richie Saunders, who scored 16 points alongside four rebounds, and Egor Demin's clutch 15 points and three 3-pointers, BYU clearly showcased their scoring depth as eight different players made it to the scoreboard.

2. **Dominance in the Paint**: The Cougars displayed their physicality in the paint, scoring a remarkable 38 points down low. The dynamic duo of Fousseyni Traore and Keba Keita was unstoppable, combining for 21 points and 18 rebounds. This inside presence not only contributed to their scoring but also played a crucial role in controlling the game's tempo.

3. **Rebounding Superiority**: BYU's rebounding was a fundamental factor in their victory, as they out-rebounded VCU 40 to 31. Despite VCU being known for their prowess on the offensive glass, the Cougars managed to edge them in that category as well, grabbing 14 offensive boards against 12 for the Rams. This advantage allowed BYU to maintain possession and create second-chance scoring opportunities.

**A Historic Milestone**: After years of disappointment in March Madness, BYU finally overcame their tournament obstacles. Not since the glory days of "Jimmermania" in 2011 have the Cougars advanced in the tournament, and achieving this feat in Kevin Young's inaugural season as head coach is nothing short of remarkable.

With just under seven minutes remaining in the first half, the Rams tied the game at 24-24. However, BYU immediately responded with a staggering 30-10 run, ultimately sealing the victory and demonstrating their resolve to rise above previous failures.

As the Cougars gear up for their clash against Wisconsin, the question remains: Can this revitalized BYU team continue their momentum and make a deep run in the tournament? Fans are eagerly anticipating what’s next for this inspiring squad!