Episode Details

Kalani Sitake has emerged as the Big 12’s premier coach, guiding the BYU football program to unprecedented heights—will this momentum carry them to a conference championship and College Football Playoff berth? The conversation focused on Sitake’s outstanding 15-3 Big 12 record over the past two seasons, his ability to recruit and develop talent under unique BYU conditions, and his recognition atop Brett McMurphy's Big 12 coaching rankings. One concept discussed was how Sitake has consistently done more with less, transforming the BYU Cougars' perceived recruiting hurdles—such as the Honor Code and location—into valuable advantages that attract high-character recruits and build team culture. A key theme that emerged was Sitake’s unwavering drive for progress; despite back-to-back top finishes and turning down interest from Penn State, he maintains his sights on Big 12 titles and national relevance, aiming to emulate and even surpass the success of Lavell Edwards.

The discussion explored BYU basketball’s ongoing pursuit of a long-term answer at center, with Kevin Young’s staff actively working to land a game-changing big man even as summer workouts begin. Several points were raised, including the international profile of top targets: Xu Xin, the towering 7-foot-5 “Chinese Wemby,” who brings both size and a promising skillset but faces eligibility and visa hurdles; Pavle Backo, the Serbian seven-footer who recently exited the NBA draft process and appeals with his offense-first, Euro-style touch in the paint; and Louis Uvwo of Prolific Prep, a shot-blocking prospect considering reclassification to bolster BYU’s rim protection, though he is seen as a developmental offensive piece. The conversation weighed up what BYU needs from its new center: not necessarily a 20-and-10 player, but a reliable defensive deterrent and lob finisher to complement playmakers like Bruce Branch III, Collin Chandler, and Rob Wright.

A key storyline rounding out the episode was BYU football’s immediate recruiting dividends following a major official visit weekend. The first two commits are turning heads: Jaxson Rex, a versatile three-star athlete and legacy member of the Rex family, brings playmaking to both sides of the ball; while five-star kicker/punter James Thorley is expected to become a special teams asset, reflecting BYU’s commitment to depth and flexibility. The conversation focused on how these additions, along with the possibility of securing most of their remaining uncommitted visitors, keep BYU’s trajectory rising heading into the new season. Don’t miss this energetic breakdown of BYU’s coaching ascendancy, roster objectives, and the next generation poised to make an impact in Provo.

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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