BYU men's basketball launched its season with a statement win over Ohio State, powered by a breathtaking performance from Robert Wright III, who racked up 33 points and 5 assists. Wright looked every part the star his coach, Kevin Young, claimed him to be, driving the team through early adversity and igniting a second-half explosion that saw the BYU Cougars pour in 60 points and shoot an incredible 75% from three-point range. This electric debut instantly positioned Wright as a preseason All-American contender and a potential Big 12 Player of the Year. The conversation focused on the key adjustments that helped BYU shake off a slow start. One concept discussed was the importance of getting to the free-throw line while open shots weren’t falling, which kept BYU within striking distance by halftime. Several points were raised, including the balanced contributions from the entire starting lineup—all five starters finished in double figures, a feat not seen since 2025. Collin Chandler’s highlight dunk capped the Cougars’ surge, while Tyler Betsey and Jaxon Kohler settled into starring roles after slow exhibition starts, and Bruce Branch III proved ready for a major freshman impact. The discussion explored the Cougars’ bench, singling out Khadim Mboup for his trademark energy and drawing comparisons between freshman Brooks Bahr and former fan favorite Richie Saunders. Bahr’s relentless defense and all-around hustle gave the team an extra edge, raising intriguing questions about his long-term role and potential to become a foundational piece for BYU’s future. A key theme that emerged was BYU’s expanding roster depth and dynamic adaptability—whether one star is targeted, others are ready to step up and deliver. As BYU prepares for a lighter matchup against Omaha, excitement grows over what this cohesive, high-powered lineup can achieve when the stakes rise. Are the Cougars primed for a breakout season and deeper runs in the conference?
BYU men's basketball launched its season with a statement win over Ohio State, powered by a breathtaking performance from Robert Wright III, who racked up 33 points and 5 assists. Wright looked every part the star his coach, Kevin Young, claimed him to be, driving the team through early adversity and igniting a second-half explosion that saw the BYU Cougars pour in 60 points and shoot an incredible 75% from three-point range. This electric debut instantly positioned Wright as a preseason All-American contender and a potential Big 12 Player of the Year.
The conversation focused on the key adjustments that helped BYU shake off a slow start. One concept discussed was the importance of getting to the free-throw line while open shots weren’t falling, which kept BYU within striking distance by halftime. Several points were raised, including the balanced contributions from the entire starting lineup—all five starters finished in double figures, a feat not seen since 2025. Collin Chandler’s highlight dunk capped the Cougars’ surge, while Tyler Betsey and Jaxon Kohler settled into starring roles after slow exhibition starts, and Bruce Branch III proved ready for a major freshman impact.
The discussion explored the Cougars’ bench, singling out Khadim Mboup for his trademark energy and drawing comparisons between freshman Brooks Bahr and former fan favorite Richie Saunders. Bahr’s relentless defense and all-around hustle gave the team an extra edge, raising intriguing questions about his long-term role and potential to become a foundational piece for BYU’s future. A key theme that emerged was BYU’s expanding roster depth and dynamic adaptability—whether one star is targeted, others are ready to step up and deliver.
As BYU prepares for a lighter matchup against Omaha, excitement grows over what this cohesive, high-powered lineup can achieve when the stakes rise. Are the Cougars primed for a breakout season and deeper runs in the conference?
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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.
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