BYU Basketball: Rising to the Challenge Amid Adversity
For BYU basketball, a team that kicked off the season with dreams of the Final Four, the journey has hit some turbulent times. Four straight losses during a grueling Big 12 schedule have tempered expectations, and the recent season-ending injury to Richie Saunders has left fans and analysts predicting a brief NCAA Tournament appearance.
But don't count out Coach Kevin Young just yet. Known for thriving under pressure, Young is embracing the challenge with renewed vigor.
"I've always thrived in back-against-the-wall situations," Young shared. "I'm energized and ready to take this head-on.
Many are writing us off, and that fuels us even more."
With Saunders out, Young is leaning on players who haven't seen much action this season. The "big three" - AJ Dybantsa, Rob Wright, and Saunders - is now down to a dynamic duo. The injury to Saunders, coupled with Dawson Baker's earlier setback, means it's time for the bench to shine.
Young, who spent eight years as an NBA assistant, knows the drill. "I've seen it in the NBA where players step up when needed.
Now, it's our turn," he said. The challenge is different at the college level, where less playing time can shake confidence.
Stepping into the spotlight are Mihailo Boskovic, Aleksej Kostic, and Tyler Mrus. With games against top teams like Arizona, Iowa State, and Texas Tech, plus road trips to West Virginia and Cincinnati, the road ahead is tough.
"Some guys haven't had it go their way yet," Young noted. "Now's their chance. I'm motivated, knowing it won't be easy, but that's part of the journey."
Young, inspired by BYU women's cross country coach Diljeet Taylor's mantra that "belief is a beautiful thing," knows he must trust his players. "Everything's on the table," he said, as he figures out the best rotations.
With the big three now a duo, Dybantsa and Wright will carry more weight on offense. But Dybantsa is confident in his teammates. "I'm super confident in those guys," he said after a crucial overtime win against Colorado.
Young is also looking for more from Kennard Davis. Previously cast mainly as a three-point shooter, Davis has struggled with consistency, shooting 36% from the field and 28% from beyond the arc. With Saunders out, Davis has the chance to expand his role.
"I'm going to try to unlock his potential," Young said. "I've limited him to a catch-and-shoot role, but he has so much more to offer."
As BYU navigates this challenging stretch, it's clear they're not backing down. With Young at the helm, the Cougars are ready to face whatever comes their way.