Houston pummeled BYU on both ends of the court. But over the past few weeks, with the obvious exception of Houston’s Cougars, BYU’s Cougars have been the hottest team in the Big 12 Conference. Now, two teams riding long winning streaks collide Friday night in Kansas City in the first of two Phillips 66 Big 12 Championship semifinal contests.

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BYU will live and die by the long-range shot, even if their opponent is the most fearsome defense in college hoops. Look for Richie Saunders & Co. to punch above their weight vs. Houston.