Episode Details

The BYU men's basketball program faces a recruiting crossroads as four-star Utah Prep standout Anthony Felesi hits the open market after decommitting from Pittsburgh. With deep ties to BYU and AJ Dybantsa, Felesi’s elite defensive prowess could reshape Kevin Young’s roster and set the Cougars up for a powerhouse freshman class. Will BYU’s connection to Felesi, local roots, and robust boosters be enough to outmaneuver heavy competition and secure a cornerstone for future success?

Jake Hatch kicks off with an urgent look at Felesi’s must-get status, breaking down the guard’s strengths—size, tenacious perimeter defense, and potential as a 3-and-D game-changer. The discussion covers how Felesi’s relationship with AJ Dybantsa might influence his decision, and why BYU’s recruiting strategy needs to leverage both financial backing and program culture. The episode investigates the potential freshman trio of Felesi, Bruce Branch, and Dean Rueckert, examining how their defensive capabilities could become BYU’s backbone after a disappointing NCAA tournament exit.

Shifting to the gridiron, Jake Hatch welcomes exclusive insights from Isaiah Glasker, BYU’s veteran linebacker who surprises fans by returning for another season. Glasker addresses his comeback after battling injuries and sets ambitious goals for BYU’s Big 12 championship hopes. He details the depth and versatility of BYU’s linebacker unit—highlighting contributors like Cade Uluave, Ace Kaufusi, and Miles Hall—and explains how new defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga’s leadership is impacting the room with a player-centered approach and tactical flexibility.

The episode also celebrates BYU women’s basketball star Delaney Gibb, who captivated a national audience on Fox and Friends. Jake Hatch reflects on Gibb’s viral press conference statement about not practicing on Sundays and her open discussion of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, team culture, and representing something bigger than basketball. The conversation digs into how Coach Lee Cummard fosters a supportive environment for all beliefs and why BYU athletes stand for more than just wins on the scoreboard.

Can BYU capitalize on its recruiting momentum and transfer defensive depth into lasting success? Catch insider interviews, recruiting news, and a behind-the-scenes look as the Cougars gear up for a pivotal offseason in both basketball and football.

Support Locked On Cougars:

Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube!

Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here!

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. 

Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else.

Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors!

Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and u