Preview: Texas Longhorns vs. BYU Cougars

PORTLAND, Ore. (Interstat) — The Texas Longhorns and BYU Cougars meet in a win-or-go-home NCAA Division I men’s basketball playoff game Thursday at Moda Center.

Texas (18-14), the visiting team, enters having lost four of its last five games. Its most recent outing was a 76-66 home loss to Mississippi on March 11. The Longhorns will lean on guard Dailyn Swain, who has been a consistent offensive bright spot during the skid. He is averaging 19.8 points over his last six contests, including a 22-point effort in the loss to the Rebels.

BYU (22-11), the designated home team, has been more consistent, winning three of its last five. The Cougars are coming off a 73-66 road loss at Houston on March 12. Their offense is powered by standout forward AJ Dybantsa, who is averaging 27.7 points over his last seven games. He erupted for 40 points and six assists in a 105-91 win over Kansas State on March 10.

The matchup features contrasting styles. Texas will need to find answers defensively after allowing an average of 86.8 points in its four recent losses. BYU’s high-powered attack, which has scored 82 or more points in three of its last five wins, will test that defense. The Cougars’ perimeter shooting and pace will be key factors.

For Texas to advance, it must break its late-season trend and provide Swain with more consistent secondary scoring support. Jordan Pope, who had 16 points against Mississippi, is a candidate. BYU will look to Dybantsa to continue his prolific scoring while seeking a more balanced defensive effort after the Cougars conceded 90 points in a loss to Cincinnati on March 3.

This marks the first postseason meeting between the programs. Tipoff is set for Thursday, March 19, 2026, with the winner advancing in the tournament bracket.