AMES, Iowa (AP) — Richie Saunders scored 23 points and No. 23 BYU outlasted No. 10 Iowa State 88-85 in double overtime Tuesday night for its seventh consecutive victory.
The highly anticipated matchup between the two ranked teams did not disappoint, as both sides battled it out in a back-and-forth affair that saw multiple lead changes throughout the game.
BYU came out strong in the first half, with Saunders leading the charge. The guard knocked down several key shots, including a few from beyond the arc, to help the Cougars take an early lead.
However, Iowa State refused to back down, and the Cyclones fought their way back into the game behind a balanced scoring attack. The home team's bench provided a significant boost, with several players contributing key baskets and defensive stops.
As the game wore on, it became clear that this was going to be a battle for the ages. Both teams gave it their all, leaving everything on the court in a desperate bid for victory.
The fourth quarter was a nail-biter, with both teams trading baskets and neither able to gain a clear advantage. As the clock ticked down, the tension in the arena became palpable, with the crowd on the edge of their seats cheering on their team.
In the end, it took not one, but two overtimes to decide the winner. BYU's Saunders once again rose to the occasion, scoring several crucial points in the extra periods to help his team emerge victorious.
The win marks BYU's seventh consecutive victory, and the Cougars will look to keep their momentum going as they head into their next matchup. For Iowa State, the loss is a tough one to swallow, but the Cyclones can take pride in the fact that they gave it their all and left everything on the court.
The game was a testament to the strength and resilience of both teams, and it will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most exciting matchups of the season. As for BYU, they will look to build on their winning streak and make a deep run in the tournament.