With the NCAA Tournament just around the corner, the excitement is palpable as the VCU Rams prepare to face the BYU Cougars on March 20, 2025, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. This matchup signifies both teams aiming for NCAA glory, driven by their recent successes and strategic alignments.
VCU head coach Ryan Odom, now entering his second season with the Rams, reflects on the unique challenge of matching up against teams from Utah—a battle he has been familiar with from his previous coaching days at Utah State. Last season, his Rams faced the Utah Utes and fell short with a score of 74-54. "I have a 0-1 record against BYU from my time at Utah State," Odom acknowledged candidly during his recent interview with Hans & Scotty G. on KSL Sports Zone.
This year, VCU has made significant strides, entering the tournament on the back of 12 wins out of their last 13 games, including three impressive victories at the Atlantic 10 Tournament. Odom shared the enthusiasm of his team and the way they’ve rallied together to come this far. "We’re always following the Aggies and pulling for the Aggies. You just keep winning games out there, baby," he said, demonstrating his continued support for his former team.
BYU, the sixth seed in this matchup, has been no slouch either. They enter the tournament having won nine of their last ten games, the only blemish being their recent defeat to the number one seed, Houston, during the Big 12 Tournament. Coach Kevin Young's squad has garnered respect with their performances, and Odom is well aware of the challenge they present. "They’re a big-time team. They are really well-coached," Odom remarked. The Cougars currently sit at number 11 on KenPom’s offensive adjusted efficiency chart, well above Colorado State, the next-ranked offense VCU has faced this season.
Both teams will engage with contrasting styles, which makes this matchup particularly intriguing. VCU prides itself on its defensive capabilities, allowing only 62.4 points per game. Odom noted, "When you first look at us, you look at the defensive numbers, and you’re like, ‘Wow, that's pretty impressive.’ But the offense is pretty good, too.” VCU's offensive strategy is underscored by its balance, having led its conference on offensive metrics—making them a dual threat on the floor.
BYU, on the other hand, has showcased their potent offensive prowess throughout the season, with Young’s strategy emphasizing quick passing and teamwork—elements Odom has praised. “Their offense is fun to watch. I'm sure it's fun to play in. They certainly pass the ball really well and look for one another. You can tell they’re a true team," Odom said, highlighting the Cougars’ ability to share the ball and create scoring opportunities.
The engagement of styles is evident, especially as VCU heads west from Richmond to Denver. Odom reflected on the geographical challenge of crossing two time zones and potentially viewing it as a road game. “I think the biggest thing is it’s a mini-tournament. That’s the way we’re going to approach it,” he stated, pointing out the importance of focusing on the immediate task at hand rather than the logistics of travel.
The upcoming game is more than just another matchup; it’s pivotal for both teams’ aspirations to make deep tournament runs. Their respective paths have led them here—VCU claiming the A10 Conference Championship and BYU being resilient through their competitive stake within the Big 12. Fans are eager to see how this clash will impact their narratives.
Expectations run high, and the stakes are matched with pressure. Analysts have weighed in on this showdown, with various predictions surfacing leading up to game time. The oddsmakers have placed BYU as the 3.5-point favorite, with probabilities leaning slightly toward the Cougars at around 57.3% to win, versus VCU’s 42%. Predictions from multiple outlets, including ESPN and Sporting News, echo the competitive edge BYU holds, particularly highlighted by their sharp shooting and depth. “BYU's ability to hurt teams from beyond the arc will likely be the game's story," noted Teddy Ricketson from Sporting News, emphasizing the strengths of the BYU offense.
Nonetheless, VCU is not to be taken lightly. Their disciplined approach on defense and tactical ingenuity could very well offset BYU’s offensive strengths. The ball will tip on March 20 at 4:05 p.m. EDT, broadcasted on TNT, with fans across the nation eagerly tuning in for this first-round NCAA tournament game.
With both teams fueled by determination and their latest triumphs, it’s anyone’s game. While stats and odds favor BYU, the unpredictability of March Madness promises thrilling twists and surprises. Will VCU demonstrate their defensive prowess and upset their opponents, or will BYU's collective strength prevail and advance past the first round? The answer awaits as two determined teams take the court, each vying for their place in NCAA history.
