The University of Wyoming Cowboys (14-7, 5-3 MW) grabbed the lead 30 seconds into the first half and held onto it for the remainder of Saturday’s game to hand the Utah State Aggies (12-9, 2-7 MW) their fifth consecutive loss.
The Cowboys started and finished the game aggressive and focused; despite the absence of head coach Larry Shaytt, due to illness. Assistant coach Jeremy Shyatt stepped in for his father Saturday and lead the Pokes to a double-digit victory of 74-57.
“It could’ve been the emotional high we were on,” said junior forward Larry Nance Jr., “You know, let’s do this for our leader who’s out right now. I don’t know what it was, I just know coach Shyatt’s proud.”
Nance finished the night with 13 points, two blocks, and two steals. Junior guard Riley Grabau and Nance both made six-of-six at the foul line, contributing to the team’s free throw percentage of 85.7.
Junior forward Derek Cooke Jr. ended the game two points away from a double-double, contributing 11 points and eight boards to Wyoming’s victory.
“I was really proud of Derek tonight,” said Shyatt, “He played through some fatigue, but I really can’t say enough about what he did defensively.”
Wyoming maintained a high energy level throughout the first half, pulling ahead to a 10-point lead five minutes into the game. The Cowboys scored on six of the team’s first seven possessions. Wyoming ended the first half with a 35-28 advantage over the Aggies.
The Cowboys’ early lead was due in part to Grabau’s back-to-back three pointers. Grabau shot for 75 percent from beyond the arc, making three out of four attempted shots. Grabau finished the night with 15 points.
Wyoming began the second half similar to how they began the first half: strong and energized. Coming out of the locker room, the Cowboys pulled ahead to a 15-point lead.
“Our guys really didn’t back down,” said Shyatt, “We were able to finish the first half with a great spark. I think the finish out of the first half lead to our great start in the second half.”
Despite the Aggies tying the score three times throughout the game, they were unable to ever take the lead from the Cowboys, falling behind by as much as 21-points in the second half.
Sophomore guard Josh Adams received a flagrant two technical foul late in the second half and was ejected from the game. But, not before the sophomore lead the Pokes in scoring with 19 points and a career-high eight assists.
“I think he won us the game,” said Grabau, “Just by setting the tone, offensively and defensively. He was a big contribution to our win tonight, I give him all the credit.”
The Cowboys head to New Mexico on Wednesday to take on the Lobos. The game is set for 9 p.m.
