As Kevin Young enters his second season as head coach of the BYU men’s basketball program, the final touches are being placed on a promising and talent-rich 2025-2026 roster. With the recent addition of UC Riverside transfer guard Nate Pickens, the Cougars are nearly done shaping a squad that looks markedly different—and potentially more dangerous—than last season’s. The incoming class, combined with critical returning players, sets the stage for a revamped lineup that could make significant noise in the Big 12. With most roster spots now filled and only limited room remaining, let’s take a detailed look at the expected starting five and rotation.
Projected Starting Lineup
Next season’s starting lineup will include a number of new names. In fact, three of the five projected starters have never worn a BYU jersey. Despite the turnover, there is excitement surrounding this fresh wave of talent and what they could bring to the court.
Returning senior Richie Saunders will once again play a central role. A First-Team All-Big 12 selection, Saunders has proven his ability to score efficiently without dominating the ball. His smart shot selection and consistent performance make him the most reliable scoring threat on BYU’s roster. Saunders is poised to leave a lasting legacy in his final collegiate season and may be remembered as one of the all-time greats to wear Cougar blue.
At point guard, BYU has landed a key transfer in Rob Wright III, a five-star recruit from Baylor. Wright made a strong impression as a true freshman, averaging 11.5 points per game. He is expected to take over the lead guard duties immediately and provide BYU with a dynamic playmaker who can run the offense and create for others.
Another star newcomer is AJ Dybansta, widely regarded as the top high school prospect in the nation and a projected No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. With that kind of pedigree, there’s no doubt he’ll be featured prominently in BYU’s game plan. Dybansta has the tools to be a dominant scorer at the college level and will be expected to carry a major offensive load from day one.
Anchoring the frontcourt is Keba Keita, who returns after showing significant growth throughout last season. His athleticism and defensive presence in the paint were instrumental during BYU’s strong finish last year. With the offensive firepower around him, Keita will have ample opportunities to capitalize on lob passes and clean up on the offensive glass as defenses shift focus to perimeter threats.
Rounding out the starting five is Kennard Davis Jr., who had a breakout sophomore campaign at Missouri State. Davis averaged 16.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.3 steals per game, earning Second-Team All-Conference honors and the title of Most Improved Player in the Missouri Valley Conference. He brings a balanced skill set and could emerge as BYU’s best perimeter defender.
Bench Rotation
BYU’s depth took a noticeable step forward this offseason. With head coach Kevin Young showing a willingness to utilize a deep bench last year, a 10-man rotation seems likely once again.
Dawson Baker will return to offer scoring from the bench. Known for his ability to create off the dribble and attack the rim, Baker gives the Cougars an offensive spark in the second unit. His experience and knack for making plays should keep defenses on their toes when starters rest.
Mihailo Boskovic becomes a vital piece as the primary backup center. With no other experienced big men currently behind Keita, Boskovic will need to provide crucial minutes. His development and ability to hold down the paint while Keita rests could become a deciding factor in games, especially if Keita runs into foul trouble or injury.
Nate Pickens, the newest addition from UC Riverside, is expected to slot in as the backup point guard behind Wright. Pickens is a capable playmaker and a proven shooter—he connected on 39% of his attempts from beyond the arc last season. He could thrive in BYU’s spacing-heavy offense and help maintain tempo when Wright sits.
Dominique Diomande brings versatility to the rotation with the ability to guard multiple positions and contribute in transition. His utility off the bench adds a valuable layer of flexibility for Coach Young, especially against positionless offensive sets that dominate modern college basketball.
Tyler Mrus is another player to watch off the bench. A sharpshooter by trade, Mrus is expected to serve as a floor spacer. With so many playmakers on this team, he should see plenty of open looks from three, giving BYU an extra perimeter scoring threat.
Talented Players Outside the Rotation
Even with a 10-man rotation, some talented young players will find themselves waiting for opportunities. Xavion Stanton, a highly touted center from the 2025 recruiting class, may be on the outside looking in initially. However, his size and potential suggest he could be a factor later in the season, especially if injuries arise.
Brody Kozlowski, a former four-star recruit, also brings upside. While he may not see immediate playing time, his talent makes him a strong candidate to compete for minutes as the season unfolds.
Khadim Mboup, another promising young forward, rounds out the group of talented reserves. Although not currently projected in the main rotation, his athleticism and energy could be useful situationally or in future seasons.
Outlook
With an influx of high-end talent and key veterans returning, the 2025-2026 BYU basketball team is shaping up to be one of the most compelling rosters in recent program history. Kevin Young has built a squad capable of competing at a high level in the Big 12, with both star power and depth. While frontcourt depth behind Keita remains a concern, the overall balance of scoring, defense, and versatility should make the Cougars a tough matchup for any team. As the season approaches, fans have plenty of reasons to be excited about what’s in store in Provo.
