Collin Chandler Has No Regrets About Following Mark Pope: ‘This is Where I Needed to Be’
Collin Chandler, a talented and dedicated guard for the BYU basketball team, has made it clear that he has no regrets about his decision to follow Coach Mark Pope to Provo. As one of the most exciting young prospects in the program, Chandler has consistently been a key contributor for the Cougars, and his loyalty to Coach Pope and the BYU basketball program speaks volumes about his character and commitment. In recent interviews, Chandler shared that he firmly believes playing for Coach Pope at BYU was the best decision for his personal and athletic growth.
Chandler originally committed to BYU in 2021 during the early days of Pope’s tenure with the Cougars. At the time, Pope was still building the foundation for what he envisioned for BYU basketball—a program that emphasized team cohesion, strong defense, and high-scoring offense. Chandler, who had already shown his prowess as a sharpshooter and an athletic playmaker at Farmington High School in Utah, fit into Pope’s vision perfectly. However, with any new coach, there is always uncertainty about how a player will adjust to the system, and Chandler had to decide whether to continue with his commitment after Pope’s arrival.
Despite the possible challenges of being part of a team in transition, Chandler stuck with his decision. He had seen the potential in Pope’s coaching philosophy and trusted that his development would be maximized in Provo. Over time, his decision proved to be the right one. Under Pope’s guidance, Chandler flourished as one of BYU’s top players, earning a reputation as a versatile and dynamic guard. His smooth shooting stroke, ability to drive the lane, and overall basketball IQ quickly made him a key figure for the Cougars.
For Chandler, the choice to stay at BYU has been about more than just basketball. It has been about finding the right environment where he could grow both as a player and as an individual. In his interviews, Chandler spoke fondly of the culture within the program and the relationships he has built with his teammates and coaching staff. The connection he shares with Pope has been pivotal to his comfort and success at BYU, and Chandler’s loyalty to his coach is evident in how he talks about their relationship.
“I feel like this is where I needed to be,” Chandler said, reflecting on his decision. “The program, the culture, and Coach Pope—it all aligns with what I want to accomplish as a player and as a person. This has been the perfect fit for me.”
His performance on the court has certainly backed up his words. Chandler has been instrumental in BYU’s offensive schemes, particularly as a scoring option and a playmaker. His shooting range and ability to create his own shot have made him a consistent threat, while his commitment to improving his all-around game has helped elevate the team’s play. Chandler’s work ethic and determination have earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches alike, and he continues to be one of the cornerstones of BYU’s roster.
Chandler’s decision to stay with BYU and follow Coach Pope has not only paid off in terms of individual development but has also played a crucial role in the growth of BYU’s basketball program. With Chandler at the helm, the Cougars are poised for success, and Chandler himself is making the most of his opportunity to shine on a bigger stage. His story is a testament to the importance of trusting one’s instincts and committing to the right place—both for personal growth and athletic success.
As BYU continues to build on its basketball legacy under Coach Pope, Chandler’s journey serves as a reminder that sometimes the best decision is the one that aligns with personal values and long-term goals. With no regrets and full confidence in his path, Collin Chandler remains one of the brightest stars in BYU basketball.
