Dave McCann and Gary Sheide Lead ESPN+ Coverage as Cal Baptist Visits No. 9 BYU in March Matchup

Match date: 5 March 2026

Dave McCann and Gary Sheide Lead ESPN+ Coverage as Cal Baptist Visits No. 9 BYU in March Matchup

ESPN+ and BYU Radio provided comprehensive coverage of the Cal Baptist Lancers' visit to No. 9 BYU on Wednesday, 5 March 2026, with experienced commentators bringing their expertise to what proved to be a dominant performance by the Cougars. The game, broadcast on ESPN Unlimited alongside the radio feed from Matthew Baiamonte, showcased BYU's offensive firepower as the team continues its impressive run through the 2025-26 season.

Dave McCann, the primary play-by-play commentator for ESPN+, brought his seasoned perspective to the broadcast, providing authoritative coverage of the action. Alongside McCann in the broadcast booth was Gary Sheide, a respected analyst who offered colour commentary throughout the match. Sheide's insights helped viewers understand the strategic nuances of the game, particularly as BYU's dominance became increasingly apparent throughout the evening.

For listeners tuning in via radio, Matthew Baiamonte delivered play-by-play coverage on BYU Radio, ensuring fans without access to the television broadcast could follow every basket and defensive stop. This multi-platform approach allowed the widest possible audience to experience the match, whether through streaming video on ESPN+, traditional radio, or alternative viewing options.

The game itself saw No. 9 BYU deliver a commanding performance, defeating California Baptist 91-60 to improve to 7-1 on the season.[2] The Cougars' dominant display was led by dual standout performances: AJ Dybantsa and Keba Keita each contributed 22 points to the winning effort.[2] Keita, in particular, put on a complete performance, adding 14 rebounds to his scoring total for a double-double that exemplified BYU's superiority in the paint.[2] Robert Wright III rounded out the scoring with 15 points whilst orchestrating the offence with 11 assists, demonstrating BYU's well-balanced attack.[2]

From the opening tip, BYU established control of the contest. After a brief back-and-forth start, Dybantsa sparked a pivotal 10-0 run early in the first half, with Keita converting on a setup for a dunk that set the tone for the evening.[1] By halftime, the Cougars had built a commanding 42-26 advantage, with Keita and Dybantsa combining for 28 points on 13 field goals.[2]

The second half saw BYU extend its dominance further. The Cougars exhibited exceptional shooting efficiency, particularly in the final minutes, as they showcased their ability to execute in crunch time. BYU shot an impressive 55 per cent from the field overall and forced 14 turnovers, translating that defensive intensity into 15 points off turnovers whilst outscoring Cal Baptist 48-28 in the paint.[2] A 10-straight field goals stretch, capped by consecutive buckets from Dybantsa, expanded BYU's lead to 70-39 with just under 12 minutes remaining, effectively putting the game out of reach.[2]

For Cal Baptist, Martel Williams led the effort with 12 points, five rebounds and five assists in a losing cause.[2] The Lancers, who entered the match at 7-2, found themselves unable to contain BYU's firepower, particularly the dynamic duo of Keita and Dybantsa. The loss marked Cal Baptist's second defeat to a Big 12 opponent in three days, highlighting the competitive challenge posed by conference-level competition.[2]

The broadcast excellence provided by Dave McCann, Gary Sheide, and Matthew Baiamonte ensured that viewers and listeners experienced comprehensive coverage of a lopsided but well-executed performance by the BYU squad. For fans wanting to follow NCAA Division I college basketball action, the multi-platform availability across ESPN+, ESPN Unlimited, and BYU Radio demonstrated the modern approach to sports broadcasting, ensuring accessibility regardless of preferred viewing method. BYU's continued success in the Big 12 Conference positions the programme as a contender heading deeper into the season.

Article generated: 6 March 2026, 10:10 GMT