BYU Cougars Make College Sports History with Nation’s Top Athletic Program Title in 2025
In a landmark moment for BYU athletics, the Cougars have officially been named the Nation’s Top Athletic Program for 2025, marking a historic achievement that cements Provo’s powerhouse as one of the most dominant forces in collegiate sports.
This recognition comes after an extraordinary year across multiple sports, with BYU programs not just competing—but excelling—at the highest national levels. From championship appearances to deep postseason runs, the Cougars showcased depth, talent, and cohesion rarely matched across a single athletic department.
The football team made headlines with its most competitive Big 12 campaign yet, finishing the season with a top-tier bowl win and breaking multiple offensive records. Meanwhile, men’s and women’s basketball continued to elevate the program’s national reputation, each securing NCAA tournament berths and thrilling fans with upset victories and highlight-reel performances.
But the accolades didn’t stop there. BYU’s Olympic sports surged in 2025, with volleyball, track & field, and soccer all finishing in the top 10 nationally. Their combined success pushed BYU to the top of the NACDA Directors’ Cup rankings, surpassing traditional powerhouses and silencing any remaining doubters about their status in the Big 12 and beyond.
University leadership, including Athletic Director Tom Holmoe, credited the achievement to “a culture of excellence, faith, and relentless work ethic that defines BYU sports.” Head coaches across programs echoed a unified message: this isn’t the end — it’s the beginning of a new era for Cougar Nation.
From the Wasatch Front to the national spotlight, BYU has arrived—and they’re here to stay.
