Babcock Hoops' scouting team covers extensive ground, with scouts strategically positioned across various regions to evaluate NBA prospects nationwide and beyond. Our talent evaluators attend specific matchups in person, developing these reports to establish an initial baseline on players or provide an updated assessment of their development. Unlike comprehensive scouting profiles, these evaluations focus exclusively on a player’s performance in a single game, emphasizing key takeaways and data points gathered from live scouting observations.
Final Score:
BYU 81 – UCF 75
Location:
Orlando, FL
Key Prospects
Egor Demin
BYU | Guard/Forward | 6’9” | 190 lbs | Freshman
Demin struggled offensively throughout the game, mainly due to UCF’s defensive game plan, which threw multiple defenders and schemes at him. Despite not scoring until the final minutes, he hit a clutch three-pointer late in the game, showing poise under pressure. His playmaking remained a factor, finishing with six assists, though he also committed five turnovers. Demin showed resilience, but physical defenders seemed to frustrate him at times. Even on an off night, his ability to impact the game with his passing and late-game shot-making was evident. While his offensive rhythm was disrupted, his ability to step up in big moments is noteworthy. Continued work on handling aggressive defensive coverages will be key moving forward.
Richie Saunders
BYU | Guard | 6’5” | 200 lbs | Junior
Saunders was BYU’s standout performer, leading the team with his elite shooting. He went 6-9 from three, forcing UCF to respect him beyond the arc, which opened up opportunities for him to attack the basket. His shooting mechanics were sharp, particularly his elevation and release, making his shot challenging to contest. Beyond scoring, Saunders displayed confidence and a strong feel for the game, stepping up in a high-stakes matchup. On a night when BYU needed a consistent offensive presence, Saunders delivered. His shooting and overall offensive impact make him an intriguing player to track.
Kanon Catchings
BYU | Forward | 6’9” | 195 lbs | Freshman
Catchings had a quiet offensive night but contributed on the boards with key rebounds that limited UCF’s second-chance opportunities. Despite struggling to find his shot, he remained engaged defensively and in rebounding. UCF keyed in on him and Demin, making it difficult for them to get into a rhythm. His shooting mechanics looked fine, but shots simply weren’t falling. In this game, his impact was more felt in areas beyond scoring. If he can expand his offensive consistency, he remains an intriguing prospect.
Keyshawn Hall
UCF | Guard/Forward | 6’7” | 235 lbs | Junior
Hall’s night was defined by two halves—limited first-half minutes due to early foul trouble and a technical, but a dominant second half where he scored 18 of his 20 points. His ability to score at all three levels was on display, using his size to muscle smaller defenders while also showcasing perimeter shot-making. Hall kept UCF in the game with his shot-making and slashing ability, demonstrating why he’s been one of the Big XII’s top scorers this season. A physically strong scoring guard with offensive versatility, Hall’s ability to stay disciplined and avoid early foul trouble will be necessary for maximizing his impact.
Moustapha Thiam
UCF | Center | 7’2” | 235 lbs | Freshman
Thiam continues to emerge as a defensive force for UCF, using his length and timing to disrupt BYU in the paint. The 7’2” freshman displayed excellent shot-blocking instincts, swatting two shots early in the second half as BYU tried to pull away. Offensively, his smooth shooting stroke, especially from the baselines, adds another dimension to his game. However, he still needs to add strength to hold his ground against more physical opponents. Thiam’s development is trending in the right direction. As he matures physically, his size, shot-blocking, and touch could make him a high-upside prospect.
Final Thoughts
This matchup provided an insightful look at several key prospects, with Richie Saunders being the best performer on the night. Egor Demin and Kanon Catchings struggled to find their offensive rhythm but contributed in other ways, while Keyshawn Hall showed why he is one of the more dangerous scorers in the conference. Moustapha Thiam continues to intrigue as a long-term project with significant defensive upside. The intensity of this game and the adjustments both teams made throughout provide valuable insight into how these prospects respond under pressure.