3 things BYU basketball fans should take away from Big 12 media day

With Big 12 media day wrapping up Wednesday, BYU basketball season is right around the corner.

Coach Kevin Young took a part of his squad to Kansas City, Mo., to represent the Cougars at the most widely covered media day for any conference.

AJ Dybantsa, Richie Saunders and Robert Wright III geared up for a day full of questions — and opportunities — to talk about arguably the most talented roster BYU has seen in a long time.

Here are three takeaways BYU fans should note from 2025’s Big 12 media day:

1. Kevin Young feels confident going into year two as head coach in the Big 12

As Young made his coaching debut last season, he and the Cougars finished 26-10 (14-6 Big12) ending the year fourth in the conference and falling to Alabama in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA tournament.

Young feels confident in his team after getting past those first-year jitters.

“I feel more comfort, in knowing what to expect with the league, the coaches and officiating — all that comes with the Big 12,” Young said. “It’s a hard league but we are excited.”

The Big 12 is widely regarded as the best basketball conference in the country, and Young got a firsthand look at that in his first season. Now, with the experience under his belt and a talented roster, he is eager to compete.

Part of Young’s confidence comes from his coaching philosophy that's begun to develop within this program.

Coming from a career in the NBA, Young has developed his own coaching style which involves a lot of freedom and “just playing ball.”

“When we play in the flow, we have a conceptually based offense. It’s read and react. When the game is completely stopped, I’ll call a set," Young said.

The Cougars have spent much of the offseason building chemistry — a key to playing loose and fast, according to Young.

“It’s a work in progress — that’s what is challenging,” Young said. “That is our focus right now: get the chemistry flowing so these guys can go play and not worry about what play to call.”

2. Newcomers and returning players alike – what they bring to the table this season

BYU enters the 2025-26 season with a strong mix of returning contributors and fresh faces — including a high-profile freshman and others coming from the transfer portal. Young gave a rundown of the roster during media day, highlighting what each of his players brings.

Among the top talking points is Dybantsa, the nation's No. 1 recruit, who’s set to make his highly anticipated season in a BYU uniform. Young praised Dybantsa’s energy in practice and his early connection with the team.

Coming from the NBA world, Young said his bond with Dybantsa has made coaching easier.

“There is a mutual respect that we have, he is extremely coachable," Young said. “We love coaching him.”

Young believes Dybantsa has a high ceiling with plenty of untapped potential.

But the roster talent runs deep.

Saunders returns for his senior year and is considered as one of the seasoned, grizzled veterans on this team. Young was thrilled to have him back and is eager to see the energy that he will bring to both ends of the court.

“He is an unbelievable human being — extremely hard worker and shoots the cover off the ball,” Young said.

Saunders was named the Big 12 Most Improved Player of the Year last season, averaging 16.5 points per game while shooting 43 percent from 3-point range. Defensively, he added 109 rebounds and 43 steals.

Wright chimed in on Saunders’ game by telling the media that “[Saunders] is the hardest worker I've ever played with.”

Young also emphasized the team’s work in the transfer portal — particularly the addition of Southern Illinois transfer Kennard Davis Jr.

Davis brings it on defense, something Young values. David recorded 112 defensive rebounds and 41 steals last season, showcasing his tenacity and willingness to get after it on the court.

Young is excited for BYU fans everywhere to see what he has seen in Davis since day one.

“He is one of the best defenders I’ve been around,” Young said. “I think our fans will grow to love how hard he plays.”

3. Dybantsa loves BYU and BYU loves Dybantsa

It's not everyday that BYU lands the nation's No. 1 prospect in the country, who is also projected No. 1 pick in the NBA draft. But for Dybantsa, the decision to come to Provo was about more than basketball.

Like many athletes, Dybantsa valued the "family feel" and unique culture that BYU offers. When asked if he felt he made the right decision, he didn't hesitate.

“I know I made the right decision. I nearly committed on my visit,” said Dybantsa. “Everybody being in the family-like atmosphere — everybody is normal. I made the right choice.”

Dybantsa attended BYU's win last weekend over Utah, where he sat front row and felt an immediate connection to the fanbase and community.

That admiration extends to the basketball court. When asked to describe BYU Basketball in one word, he responded: “Unselfish,” Dybantsa said.

Like the rest of the team, Dybantsa is ready to get to work. That drive, according to him, comes from both the selfless nature of the players and the welcoming embrace of the Cougar fanbase.

The Cougars take on North Carolina Friday at 7 p.m. at the Delta Center in an exhibition game.