BYU basketball: Freshman Kyle Collinsworth contributes on big stage

PROVO — Just one year ago, Kyle Collinsworth was leading the Provo High Bulldogs into the state playoffs.

Now, the BYU freshman guard is playing on a much bigger stage, for a top-10 college basketball team, and the stakes are so much higher.

The No. 7 Cougars visit No. 6 San Diego State Saturday (noon, CBS) in one of the most important regular-season games in school history.

This is the type of scenario Collinsworth had dreamed of when, as a highly touted recruit, he decided to become a Cougar — choosing BYU over programs like Stanford and Virginia in the fall of 2009.

"It's what I expected. I'm glad I signed with BYU," Collinsworth said. "It's fun stuff. It's a lot of pressure, but you have fun with it."

Of course, like most freshmen, Collinsworth has gone through a variety of ups-and-downs, and has learned valuable lessons along the way.

The biggest adjustment?

"Just playing your role," said 6-foot-6, 210-pounder. "Obviously, in high school, you're the man. It's just being able to play your role and knowing what you're supposed to do."

Collinsworth has been adept at finding his role, which is whatever coach Dave Rose needs him to do. He's been Mr. Versatility, playing multiple positions, which has included backing up Jimmer Fredette at point guard. Collinsworth has also been adept at filling a stat sheet — whether it be making a nifty pass for an assist or pulling down a crucial rebound in the paint.

For the season, Collinsworth is averaging 6.2 points and 4.3 rebounds per game.

Collinsworth came into the program essentially replacing Tyler Haws, who starred last season as a freshman before leaving for a mission.

Because of the attention he had received in high school, and the void Haws left, there was some pressure on Collinsworth from Cougar fans to make an impact right away.

"I worried about the expectations people had for Kyle coming in," said Rose. "He's done a great job for us this season."

While Collinsworth has experienced typical growing pains, he has been a solid contributor.