Brigham Young University (BYU) basketball is making waves in the 2025 preseason rankings, securing spots in several national Top 25 polls. After a strong 2023–24 season, finishing 23–11 and placing fifth in their inaugural Big 12 campaign, the Cougars are poised for another successful year. National outlets have taken notice, with ESPN ranking BYU at No. 14, The Athletic at No. 13, and USA Today placing them at No. 10 in their early rankings.
The Cougars’ rise is attributed to a combination of returning talent and impactful new additions. Key returners include guards Dallin Hall and Trevin Knell, forward Richie Saunders, and center Fousseyni Traore. The team has also bolstered its roster with transfers such as Mawot Mag from Rutgers and Keba Keita from Utah, along with promising recruits like Elijah Crawford and Kanon Catchings. These additions have strengthened BYU’s depth and competitiveness.
Despite these high rankings, BYU faces challenges in the competitive Big 12 conference. The preseason Big 12 poll has the Cougars slated to finish ninth, with Kansas, Houston, Iowa State, Baylor, and Arizona all ranked ahead of them. However, BYU’s recent performances, including victories over ranked opponents like Kansas and Arizona, demonstrate their potential to exceed expectations.
As the season approaches, BYU basketball’s inclusion in early Top 25 rankings reflects the program’s growth and the anticipation surrounding their upcoming season. With a mix of experienced players and new talent, the Cougars are set to make a significant impact in college basketball.
