The Art of the Recruit: Kevin Young’s Vision for BYU Basketball
There’s something almost poetic about the way Kevin Young talks about recruiting. It’s not just about landing the next big name; it’s about crafting a team with a soul. Personally, I think what makes Young’s approach so fascinating is his ability to balance ambition with pragmatism. He’s not just chasing talent—he’s building a culture. And in a sport where the spotlight often blinds, that’s a rare quality.
The Quest for Size: More Than Just a Physical Need
One thing that immediately stands out is Young’s focus on finding size. It’s not just about height; it’s about presence, about dominating the paint, about giving his guards the freedom to create. What many people don’t realize is that size in college basketball is a luxury, not a given. The logistics, as Young pointed out, are staggering. ‘Getting someone into school is a lot harder than I thought it would be,’ he admitted. If you take a step back and think about it, this isn’t just a recruiting challenge—it’s a logistical puzzle. Young’s honesty here is refreshing. It’s a reminder that even in the high-stakes world of college sports, the devil is in the details.
The Big Three: A Legacy in the Making
Young’s ability to attract top-tier talent is undeniable. Bruce Branch III, the latest in a line of freshman superstars, is already generating buzz as a potential top-five pick in the 2027 NBA Draft. But what’s particularly interesting is how Young frames these players. ‘They are all super unique,’ he said. ‘They all affect the game in a different way.’ This raises a deeper question: How does a coach manage such distinct personalities? Young’s answer lies in his process-oriented mindset. Egor Demin had to learn physicality. AJ Dybantsa had to learn patience. Branch? He’s still figuring out when to ‘turn it on.’ What this really suggests is that even the most gifted players need guidance—and that’s where Young shines.
The Work Ethic Factor: A Lesson from Bruce Branch
A detail that I find especially interesting is Branch’s relationship with his mother, Constance. She’s not just a parent; she’s a mentor who emphasizes the value of rebounding and teamwork over scoring. ‘She’ll say, ‘Great pass,’ not ‘Good shot,’’ Branch shared. This isn’t just a cute anecdote—it’s a window into the mindset Young is cultivating. In an era where social media can inflate egos, Branch’s humility and focus are a breath of fresh air. Personally, I think this is the kind of player Young wants to build his program around: talented, yes, but grounded.
The NBA Pipeline: A Dream Realized
Young’s vision for BYU isn’t just about winning games; it’s about launching careers. With Egor Demin already in the NBA and AJ Dybantsa and Richie Saunders poised to join him, BYU is becoming a legitimate pipeline to the pros. What makes this particularly fascinating is how Young frames this success. ‘It’s been fun to see that come to light,’ he said. There’s no arrogance, no grandstanding—just genuine pride in his players’ achievements. From my perspective, this humility is what sets Young apart. He’s not just a coach; he’s a mentor who understands that his success is measured by his players’ success.
The Broader Implications: What This Means for BYU
If you take a step back and think about it, Young’s recruiting efforts are about more than just basketball. They’re about transforming BYU into a destination for elite talent. But here’s the thing: it’s not just about the players he brings in; it’s about the culture he’s building. Young’s emphasis on character, work ethic, and teamwork is creating a foundation that could sustain BYU’s success for years to come. What many people don’t realize is that this kind of cultural shift takes time—and Young is playing the long game.
Final Thoughts: The Future is Bright
In my opinion, Kevin Young is exactly the kind of coach BYU needs. He’s not just recruiting players; he’s recruiting a mindset. His ability to attract top talent, develop their skills, and instill a winning culture is nothing short of impressive. But what’s most exciting is the future. With Branch leading the charge and a pipeline to the NBA firmly in place, BYU is poised for greatness. Personally, I can’t wait to see what Young does next. Because if there’s one thing I’ve learned from watching him, it’s this: Kevin Young doesn’t just build teams—he builds legacies.
