PROVO, Utah (Interstat) — The Houston Cougars used a stifling defensive effort and timely scoring runs to defeat the BYU Cougars 77-66 in a Big 12 Conference men’s basketball game Saturday at a sold-out Marriott Center.

Houston built a 37-31 halftime lead and maintained control throughout the second half. BYU’s AJ Dybantsa scored a game-high 28 points, but Houston answered with balanced scoring. Kingston Flemings led Houston with 19 points and five assists, while Chris Cenac added 16 points.

Houston’s defense was pivotal, limiting BYU to 39.6% shooting from the floor and forcing 16 missed free throws. The victory improved Houston’s record to 21-2 overall, while BYU fell to 16-6.