BYU Men’s Basketball enters a pivotal moment as their legacy unfolds on the….. Read more
SAN ANTONIO, TX – DECEMBER 28: Brigham Young Cougars head coach Kalani Sitake walks onto the filed during the football game between the BYU Cougars and Colorado Buffaloes on December 28, 2024, at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas. (Photo by Ken Murray/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
national stage, blending the weight of past triumphs with the promise of a new era under head coach Kevin Young . After finishing 23-11 (10-8 Big 12) and reaching the Sweet 16 in 2024-25, the Cougars stand at a crossroads, tasked with cementing a hard-fought resurgence . Expectations are sky-high: can this program transcend its mid-major roots and write a chapter of sustained dominance?
The Weight of History
BYU won 26 games in 2024-25—their most since the 2010-11 squad reached the Sweet 16 . That breakthrough followed Coach Pope’s departure, leaving the program “in a position of strength,” per BYU Athletics . Yet, with storied alumni and past glories lingering in the rafters, every dribble and defensive rotation carries the pressure of expectation .
A New Era Under Kevin Young
In April 2024, the Cougars tapped former NBA assistant Kevin Young to lead the program, banking on his pro-level pedigree to elevate BYU basketball . Young inherited a roster bolstered by retainers from last year’s squad—underscoring continuity even amid transition . Veterans like Trevin Knell and Dawson Baker, alongside rising stars Egor Demin and Kanon Catchings, bought in to Young’s vision of relentless pace and precision .
Forged in Fire
The 2024-25 campaign was a crucible: after a 2-4 start in Big 12 play, BYU ripped off a nine-game winning streak, including clashes with ranked Kansas, Arizona, and Iowa State . Their resilient spirit earned a No. 6 NCAA seed and victories over VCU and Wisconsin en route to Provo’s third-ever Sweet 16 berth . That run validated Young’s approach and underscored the Cougars’ capacity for peak performance under pressure .
The Moment of Destiny
Now, with a top-4 Big 12 tournament seed secured, BYU stands poised to charge deeper into March Madness . The Cougars face the ultimate test: to transform a one-off breakthrough into a lasting legacy, reshaping perceptions of BYU from upstart to perennial contender . One shot, one defensive stand, one unforgettable win—this is BYU’s moment, and their legend is still being written.
