Oklahoma State Fined $50K by Big 12 for Inappropriate Chant Targeting Mormon Faith During BYU Game
The Big 12 Conference has fined Oklahoma State University $50,000 for violating its Principles and Standards of Sportsmanship, following an incident during Wednesday’s men’s basketball game against BYU. The fine comes after an investigation into offensive chants from the Oklahoma State student section that specifically targeted the Mormon faith.
In a statement released Sunday, the Big 12 made it clear where it stands: “The Big 12 Conference will not tolerate any behavior that targets or demeans others.”
The controversy surfaced when BYU head coach Kevin Young addressed the incident during his postgame press conference. While acknowledging Oklahoma State’s performance on the court, Young expressed disappointment in what he heard from the stands.
“There was some ‘F the Mormons’ chants tonight by the student section that I heard,” Young said. “It’s a great win for Oklahoma State University.
Their fans should be proud, but it’d be great if some class was in there, as well. I got four small kids at home.
I’m a Mormon. When I go home, they’re gonna ask me about it, same way they asked me about it last year at Arizona.”
Young continued, highlighting a deeper issue that extends beyond sports: “There’s just too much hate in the world to be saying stuff like that.”
Oklahoma State didn’t push back on the conference’s decision. The university responded swiftly with its own statement, confirming that it had launched an immediate internal investigation after the incident was brought to light.
“It was determined that a derogatory chant followed a disputed call and referenced the Mormon faith in relation to game officials,” the statement read. “The reference to religion did not meet our standards and expectations. Oklahoma State respects the Big 12’s decision and will not appeal the fine.”
The university emphasized its commitment to sportsmanship and mutual respect, invoking its guiding principles known as the Cowboy Code.
“The Cowboy Code calls us to treat others with respect and dignity. Oklahoma State University values the relationship we have with BYU and deeply respects its community and faith. We will continue to work to ensure that the atmosphere at our events reflects the values of the Cowboy family.”
This incident underscores the growing emphasis across college athletics on fostering inclusive environments-where rivalries stay competitive, but respectful. The Big 12’s response sends a clear message: passion for the game should never cross the line into personal attacks, especially those rooted in faith, race, or identity.
As for the broader picture, this moment serves as a reminder that what happens off the court matters just as much as what happens on it. And in a conference as competitive and proud as the Big 12, holding each other accountable is part of what keeps the game-and the community-strong.