BYU basketball has a matchup problem.
The fundamental identity of Saint Mary’s is, in almost every way, opposite to what the Cougars want to do. BYU wants to attack, attack, attack. Off misses and makes, in transition and half court, Dave Rose basketball wants to score and score a lot, to move bodies and the ball and put up the first good shot.
Saint Mary’s, however, has been described as a counter-punching team. They grind on offense and defense, making only the surest move at the best time. And the best time is always when the shot clock counter on TV turns red.