BREAKING: BYU’s 6’9” Sensation Fousseyni Traore Declares for NBA Draft After Historic Freshman Season
In a move that sent shockwaves across college basketball, BYU’s 6’9” freshman phenom Fousseyni Traore has officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft. After a record-setting rookie season in Provo, the Malian forward has decided to take his talents to the professional stage, leaving newly appointed head coach Kevin Young both stunned and speechless.
Traore’s decision marks a turning point for the BYU basketball program. Known for his powerful post presence, relentless rebounding, and improving mid-range game, Traore quickly became a dominant force in the NCAA. He averaged a double-double with 17.4 points and 10.2 rebounds per game, leading BYU to one of its strongest seasons in recent memory. His impact went beyond the stat sheet — he brought energy, leadership, and a competitive edge that transformed the Cougars into a legitimate tournament threat.
What makes Traore’s story even more remarkable is the rapid rise from a relatively unheralded international recruit to a projected first-round NBA pick. Hailing from Bamako, Mali, Traore arrived at BYU with raw talent and a tireless work ethic. Throughout the season, he developed rapidly under the Cougars’ system, showcasing not only his physical tools but also a high basketball IQ, solid defensive instincts, and a budding ability to stretch the floor.
Coach Kevin Young, who recently took the helm at BYU after a successful stint in the NBA as an assistant, expressed his surprise and admiration at the announcement. “Fousseyni is a special player — one of those rare talents who changes the course of a program,” Young said. “We were excited to build around him, but we also fully support his decision. He’s ready.”
Traore’s departure leaves a significant gap in the Cougars’ frontcourt, but also opens the door for BYU to attract more high-profile recruits who want to follow in his footsteps. NBA scouts have praised his physicality, maturity, and potential for growth, with some mock drafts placing him as high as the mid-first round.
The news of Traore’s draft declaration has gone viral across social media and sports news outlets, with fans and analysts alike praising the freshman for betting on himself. “He’s got the tools to make it,” tweeted one scout. “He’ll surprise a lot of people at the next level.”
As Traore prepares for the NBA Draft Combine and private team workouts, his story continues to inspire — not only BYU fans but aspiring athletes across the world. His rise is a testament to the power of hard work, belief, and seizing opportunity when it comes.
For BYU, the challenge now is to regroup and continue the momentum Traore helped build. But no matter what comes next for the Cougars, Fousseyni Traore’s brief yet unforgettable time in Provo will be remembered as the beginning of something much bigger — for him, and for BYU basketball.
Only time will tell where his NBA journey leads, but one thing is certain: Fousseyni Traore has officially arrived.
