Sun Mar 23 00:40:00 UTC 2025: ## BYU Upsets VCU, Advances to NCAA Tournament Showdown Against Wisconsin

**DENVER, CO** – The BYU Cougars, seeded sixth, pulled off an upset victory over the seventh-seeded VCU Rams, 80-71, in the NCAA Tournament’s first round Thursday. The win sends BYU to a Saturday matchup against third-seeded Wisconsin.

Egor Demin (15 points) and Richie Saunders (16 points) led the Cougars’ offensive charge. Fousseyni Traore contributed 13 points. BYU’s strong performance in the paint, evidenced by their 19-of-28 free throw shooting compared to VCU’s 4-of-6, proved decisive according to VCU coach Ryan Odom.

VCU, boasting a 28-7 record and champions of the Atlantic 10, saw a season-high 23 points from Zeb Jackson but couldn’t overcome BYU’s balanced attack. Three other Rams scored 12 points each.

The win marks a significant turnaround for BYU, who suffered a first-round upset last year. First-year coach Kevin Young, who previously experienced playoff heartbreak at this arena with the Phoenix Suns, credited the team’s success to the return of key players Saunders and Dallin Hall, as well as the addition of impactful transfers. Demin, a potential NBA lottery pick, was showered with “One More Year!” chants from BYU fans after the game.

BYU’s victory sets up a highly anticipated clash with Wisconsin, with a Sweet 16 berth on the line. A win would be BYU’s first Sweet 16 appearance since 2011. The team drew inspiration from legendary alumni Jimmer Fredette and Danny Ainge, both present at the game. Coach Odom declined to comment on coaching rumors, choosing to focus on VCU’s performance.

Read More