Episode Details

BYU Basketball’s offseason is heating up as Head Coach Kevin Young opens summer workouts but remains on a relentless hunt for a game-changing big man. Despite roster upgrades elsewhere, the Cougars are still missing a true center—an inside-out threat who can defend the rim, rebound, facilitate in dribble handoffs, and finish lobs. Jake Hatch analyzes Kevin Young’s candid update: BYU is laser-focused on one specific international prospect, but academic eligibility and international contracts have complicated the pursuit. With names like Xu Xin from the CBA, Egor Ryzhov from Russia, and France’s Momo Faye linked to the team, Cougar fans are left speculating—who will fill the void and anchor BYU’s paint presence?

Meanwhile, BYU’s backcourt could be set for a breakout year. Kevin Young is bullish on the tandem of Robert Wright III and Bruce Branch III, projecting Wright as the best point guard in college basketball and Branch as a future NBA lottery pick. The conversation spotlights the versatility and selflessness among this new roster, with the potential for Wright, Branch, and Chandler to become Brigham Young University’s next iconic “Big Three.” Wright’s journey through the transfer portal, and Kevin Young’s proactive approach to roster management, reflect the changing dynamics of NIL and athlete mobility. Jake Hatch argues that exploring the portal annually is now smart business, echoing the increasing professionalization of college sports.

The podcast also explores NCAA rule changes about international team trips—something Kevin Young could leverage to bond and develop future BYU squads. Plus, Cougar fans have a surprise reason for pride: BYU alum Natali Wyson is outmaneuvering rivals as the Big 12’s legal ace. Her devastating federal court maneuver against Texas Tech set a new standard in sports litigation, protecting college football’s integrity and setting precedent on gambling violations and league oversight. Jake Hatch celebrates this high-powered Cougar’s impact on collegiate athletics.

With four roster spots still open and summer workouts underway, intrigue abounds: Will BYU land their long-awaited big man before the season? Are Wright and Branch poised to elevate the Cougars into Big 12 contention? And how will the team’s blend of young talent and new leadership reshape Cougar hoops? Get the full breakdown—insight, speculation, and inside stories from Provo—on this episode of Locked On Cougars.

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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.

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