When Kevin Young was appointed as the head coach of Brigham Young University’s (BYU) men’s basketball team in April 2024, the program was at a crossroads, seeking a resurgence in the competitive landscape of college basketball.
Young, armed with a wealth of NBA experience, embarked on a mission to revolutionize BYU’s basketball culture, implementing professional-level strategies that have since transformed the team’s trajectory.
NBA Pedigree and Coaching Philosophy
Kevin Young’s coaching journey is deeply rooted in the NBA. Prior to joining BYU, he served as an assistant coach for the Philadelphia 76ers and later as the associate head coach for the Phoenix Suns. During his tenure with the Suns, Young played a pivotal role in guiding the team to the NBA Finals in 2021, working closely with elite talents like Devin Booker and Chris Paul. This exposure to high-caliber basketball profoundly influenced his coaching philosophy, emphasizing pace, space, and player development.
Recruitment of Top-Tier Talent
One of Young’s most significant impacts at BYU has been his ability to attract top-tier talent, leveraging his NBA connections and the evolving landscape of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. A landmark moment came with the commitment of A.J. Dybantsa, the nation’s top recruit for the class of 2025. Dybantsa chose BYU over traditional powerhouses like Kansas and North Carolina, drawn by a record-setting NIL deal estimated between $5 million and $7 million, and the opportunity to develop under Young’s NBA-informed guidance.
This strategic recruitment approach not only elevated BYU’s national profile but also signaled a shift in the program’s ambition, aiming to compete at the highest levels by embracing modern collegiate athletics dynamics.
Implementing NBA Strategies
Young’s influence extends beyond recruitment; he has infused NBA methodologies into BYU’s playstyle and training regimens. Emphasizing a fast-paced offense and versatile defensive schemes, the team mirrors the modern NBA’s emphasis on adaptability and efficiency. Practices are structured to simulate professional environments, focusing on skill development, game situational awareness, and mental resilience.
This professional approach has yielded tangible results. Players have reported significant improvements in their individual performances, attributing their growth to the NBA-level coaching and resources now available at BYU. The team’s on-court success has also seen an uptick, with notable victories against ranked opponents, signaling a promising future under Young’s leadership.
Navigating the One-and-Done Landscape
With the influx of NBA-bound talent, BYU has embraced the “one-and-done” phenomenon, where players spend a single collegiate season before declaring for the NBA Draft. While this approach brings immediate talent and attention, it poses challenges in maintaining team cohesion and long-term program stability. Young acknowledges these challenges and has implemented strategies to balance short-term success with sustainable growth, ensuring that the program remains competitive even as star players transition to professional careers.
Community and Cultural Integration
Integrating NBA methodologies into a collegiate program requires careful consideration of the institution’s culture and values. BYU, known for its unique honor code and community standards, presents a distinctive environment. Young has approached this integration with respect and adaptability, fostering a culture where professional aspirations align with personal development and community values. This holistic approach has endeared him to players, staff, and the broader BYU community, creating a unified vision for the program’s future.
Looking Ahead
Kevin Young’s tenure at BYU represents a fusion of professional excellence and collegiate tradition. By importing NBA strategies and embracing modern recruitment dynamics, he has positioned the Cougars as a formidable force in college basketball. As the program continues to evolve under his guidance, the basketball world watches with anticipation, curious to see how this blend of NBA acumen and collegiate spirit will shape BYU’s legacy in the seasons to come.
