Gideon George Among Observations In BYU Win Over Westminster

PROVO, Utah – The BYU basketball team returned home for the final non-conference game of the season with a win over Westminster 65-53.

Off the bench, Gideon George led the way for the Cougars in scoring with 17 points. More on him below in my three observations.

The Cougars had 31 bench points and four players scored in double figures.

1. BYU basketball bench scoring

With Alex Barcello receiving so much attention defensively, the Cougars need role players to help carry the scoring burden.

Against Westminster, the guy who answered the call was George.

He poured in 11 first half points en route to 17 points for the game.

George was efficient making six of his 10 field goal attempts.

Gideon George now has multiple 3-pointers in two of the last four games.#BYUHoops @BYUMBB

— BYU Game Notes (@BYUGameNotes) December 30, 2021

Although Barcello only scored nine points, it’s better for the Cougars to have a balanced scoring attack like they did against Westminster.

2. Alex Barcello sharpshooter

I’m not breaking any news by telling you that Barcello is one of the best shooters in the country.

That’s been the case for three seasons now.

Relatively quiet night for Alex Barcello with only nine points, but a balanced scoring attack is best for #BYU going forward.

The Cougs can’t rely on AB to carry the load night in and night out.

Tonight was a positive step forward for the BYU supporting cast. @kslsports

— Matthew Baiamonte (@baiamontematt) December 30, 2021

Early in the second half the Cougars ran a play to free Barcello for an open three point attempt in the corner.

Te’Jon Lucas set a beautiful screen on the baseline allowing Barcello to get off the shot.

As he released the ball, fans could hear an audible “No!” from Westminster bench.

They knew the shot was going in before it hit the bottom of the net.

A blown assignment resulted in an automatic triple for Barcello.

3. Hunter Erickson high flyer

Erickson is one of the most athletic guys on the team and he had a chance to display his “hops” in the second half.

He threw down a nasty two-handed jam after corralling a loose ball.

Hunter Erickson showing off his explosive hops on that slam dunk.#BYU #BYUHoops @kslsports

— Mitch Harper (@Mitch_Harper) December 30, 2021

Guys like George and Erickson have a real opportunity to take on larger roles with consistent play.

Both players scored season highs in points. George had 17 while Erickson had a career high with 10.

If BYU wants to make the tournament this season, they’ll need those players to play well frequently.

You can hear Matt Baiamonte every Saturday on KSL Newsradio for Cougar Sports Saturday from 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. or you can find him on Twitter here.