“ESPN’s 2025 FPI Sparks Big 12 Firestorm: BYU Surges into Contention, Utah Faces Uphill Climb in Rivalry Reboot”
In the 2024–25 college basketball season, ESPN’s Basketball Power Index (BPI) projected the BYU Cougars and Utah Utes as mid-tier teams in the Big 12 Conference. However, their performances diverged significantly, leading to contrasting trajectories for both programs.
BYU Cougars: Surpassing Expectations
Under the leadership of first-year head coach Kevin Young, the BYU Cougars exceeded expectations, finishing the season with a 26–10 overall record and a 14–6 conference record. The team secured a No. 4 seed in the Big 12 Tournament and advanced to the NCAA Tournament, where they reached the Sweet Sixteen. This remarkable turnaround was highlighted by a significant win over Iowa State, which clinched a top 4 seed in the Big 12 Tournament and bolstered their NCAA Tournament resume.
Utah Utes: A Season of Challenges
In contrast, the Utah Utes faced a challenging season. Despite entering the Big 12 Conference with high hopes, the Utes concluded the season with a 16–17 overall record and an 8–12 conference record. Their struggles were evident, culminating in the firing of head coach Craig Smith on February 24, 2025, after the team failed to reach the NCAA Tournament.
Conclusion
The 2024–25 season underscored the unpredictable nature of college basketball, where projections and rankings can only provide a glimpse into a team’s potential. While ESPN’s BPI projected both BYU and Utah as mid-tier teams, BYU’s exceptional performance and Utah’s challenges highlighted the dynamic and competitive landscape of the Big 12 Conference.
