Wed Feb 19 02:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Sold-Out Marriott Center to Host High-Stakes Showdown Between BYU and Kansas

**Provo, UT** – The Marriott Center will be rocking Tuesday night as the BYU Cougars (17-8, 8-6 Big 12) host the No. 23 Kansas Jayhawks (17-8, 8-6 Big 12) in a highly anticipated matchup. The game, televised on ESPN, marks the first time these two teams will meet at the Marriott Center, and with a sold-out crowd, the atmosphere promises to be electric.

While both teams boast identical records, their styles differ significantly. BYU relies heavily on the three-point shot, while Kansas centers its offense around 7-foot-2 center Hunter Dickinson. Dickinson, who had a strong performance against BYU last year, will be a key factor for Kansas, who are seeking revenge after last year’s loss in Lawrence.

Kansas, coming off a loss to Utah and a disappointing season relative to preseason expectations, enters the game with a palpable sense of urgency. Jayhawks coach Bill Self acknowledged the team’s need for improvement, downplaying their current NCAA Tournament ranking. Conversely, BYU coach Kevin Young maintains a calm approach, focusing on execution rather than past results or the emotional stakes.

BYU, who recently secured impressive wins against West Virginia and Kansas State, are looking to build their NCAA tournament resume with two crucial Quad 1 victories this week, including this game and a match-up against No. 19 Arizona on Saturday. Their recent success has placed them in ESPN’s “Last Four Byes” bracket projection.

The game is expected to be a close contest, with oddsmakers favoring BYU slightly. While the NET rankings place Kansas higher (15th vs. BYU’s 36th), both teams are confident in their abilities to pull off a win. BYU will have their work cut out for them containing Dickinson, but they’ve successfully defended similar players in recent games.

This clash of styles and ambitions promises a thrilling spectacle, especially given the significant NCAA Tournament implications for both teams. The game tips off at 7 p.m. MST.

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