A backlight assembly includes an array of optical waveguides that are arranged in rows and columns. The array of optical waveguides has a planar upper surface substantially comprised of light exit facet of optical waveguides and spaced-apart lower surface substantially comprised of light input facet of optical waveguides. Backlight assembly also includes a light reflector panel that is spaced-apart from the lower surface of the array. Disposed between reflector panel and the lower light input facet of the optical waveguides are light sources. Light sources comprise light emitting diodes having 120 degree emission angles.