New Mexico ends BYU’s 15-game winning streak
No. 10 Brigham Young came into the Pit in Albuquerque sporting the nation’s longest winning streak, at 15 games.
It left without it.
Dairese Gary’s 25 points, nine over the final 1:30, were too much for the Cougars to overcome as the host and 23rd-ranked New Mexico Lobos knocked off the Mountain West’s best team, 76-72, in front of a sellout crowd in one of the toughest arenas to play.
The game was a back-and-forth affair before Gray took over late. Guard Jimmer Fredette did his best to keep BYU within striking distance, scoring 27 points. Jonathan Tavernari added 17 off the bench, but it wasn’t enough.
The loss is just the second of the season for the Cougars, who are still in line to receive a high seed in the NCAA Tournament, provided they continue to handle their business. The victory does more to help New Mexico’s credibility than it does to hurt that of BYU. Both of these teams will be playing meaningful games come March.
