BYU basketball relies on strong 3-point shooting

Former BYU coach Steve Cleveland shared insights about the Cougars and their upcoming NCAA Tournament game against VCU. Cleveland reflected on his own tournament experiences, emphasizing the importance of keeping players relaxed and focused. Cleveland recalled a past mistake when his BYU team practiced too intensely before their first tournament game in 2001. They lost to Cincinnati after a promising first half. “We were so excited,” he said, but that excitement led to overexertion. He learned from the experience and believes this wisdom can help current coach Kevin Young. As the Cougars prepare for their first game as a No. 6 seed on Thursday, Cleveland added that Young should not overemphasize the tournament's significance. Instead, he should focus on fundamentals, like teamwork and making the extra pass. Cleveland praised players like Dallin Hall and Richie Saunders for their leadership and performance this season. He noted how their skills could help ease the pressure on the team, especially during this crucial moment. The key for BYU will be their 3-point shooting. Cleveland mentioned that they lead the Big 12 with 353 successful shots from beyond the arc. If they can score early, he believes they will have a good chance to succeed against VCU. However, he also cautioned not to underestimate their opponents. In summary, Cleveland’s advice centers on staying calm, focusing on strengths, and letting the players enjoy the moment as they prepare for the tournament.