BYU men’s basketball finds itself back in the national spotlight, seizing the No. 25 spot in the Preseason AP Top-25 poll and signaling a rise in both respect and expectations for the program. The conversation focused on the program’s rapid evolution under head coach Kevin Young, who is in his third season and has already reshaped BYU’s identity on the national stage. After last year’s campaign was derailed by a string of injuries and eligibility issues—culminating in a first-round tournament exit and the departure of stars like AJ Dybantsa (now with the Washington Wizards) and Richie Saunders (Memphis Grizzlies)—the Cougars have reloaded with a fresh cast. All eyes are now on freshman sensation Bruce Branch III, impact newcomer Collin Chandler, experienced leader Rob Wright III, and transfer Jaxon Kohler, whose eligibility for the upcoming season remains uncertain as legal proceedings loom. A key theme that emerged was the heightened pressure that comes with being ranked, even at the lower end of the poll. BYU is not yet seen as a top-10 or top-20 powerhouse, but the number next to its name puts a target squarely on the Cougars’ chest—something that, as referenced by BYU football coach Kalani Sitake, is better faced head-on than ignored. The discussion explored how this pressure will test the cohesion and resolve of a roster that has only competed together once in an exhibition victory against a strong Nebraska team coached by Fred Hoiberg. Several points were raised, including the importance of continued high-level recruiting, highlighted by the recent campus visit of top prospect AJ Williams. While optimism surrounds the team’s talent and chemistry, questions remain about how they will handle adversity, especially if eligibility rulings don’t go their way. As the season tips off, BYU’s mix of high expectations and high stakes ensures every game will be under intense scrutiny.
BYU men’s basketball finds itself back in the national spotlight, seizing the No. 25 spot in the Preseason AP Top-25 poll and signaling a rise in both respect and expectations for the program. The conversation focused on the program’s rapid evolution under head coach Kevin Young, who is in his third season and has already reshaped BYU’s identity on the national stage. After last year’s campaign was derailed by a string of injuries and eligibility issues—culminating in a first-round tournament exit and the departure of stars like AJ Dybantsa (now with the Washington Wizards) and Richie Saunders (Memphis Grizzlies)—the Cougars have reloaded with a fresh cast. All eyes are now on freshman sensation Bruce Branch III, impact newcomer Collin Chandler, experienced leader Rob Wright III, and transfer Jaxon Kohler, whose eligibility for the upcoming season remains uncertain as legal proceedings loom.
A key theme that emerged was the heightened pressure that comes with being ranked, even at the lower end of the poll. BYU is not yet seen as a top-10 or top-20 powerhouse, but the number next to its name puts a target squarely on the Cougars’ chest—something that, as referenced by BYU football coach Kalani Sitake, is better faced head-on than ignored. The discussion explored how this pressure will test the cohesion and resolve of a roster that has only competed together once in an exhibition victory against a strong Nebraska team coached by Fred Hoiberg.
Several points were raised, including the importance of continued high-level recruiting, highlighted by the recent campus visit of top prospect AJ Williams. While optimism surrounds the team’s talent and chemistry, questions remain about how they will handle adversity, especially if eligibility rulings don’t go their way. As the season tips off, BYU’s mix of high expectations and high stakes ensures every game will be under intense scrutiny.
Support Locked On Cougars Hits:
Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube!
Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here!
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.
Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub
Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else.
Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!
KALSHI: Today's hit is sponsored by Kalshi. Download Kalshi and use code HIT to get $25 when you trade $25.18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. Prices, values, and available markets may differ from those mentioned. For more information see kalshi.com/regulatory.
Follow the Locked On Cougars podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up-to-date with the latest with regards to the podcast and BYU sports news. Please remember to subscribe, enable notifications, rate and review the show.
If you are interested in advertising with Locked On Cougars or the Locked On Podcast Network, please email us at LockedOnBYU@gmail.com.