Kevin Young Misses Big 12 Media Days Due to Illness
The BYU head coach remained in Utah while staff and players represented the team at the event in Kansas City.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Basketball
Live Poll
Do you trust preseason rankings to accurately predict your local team's performance this year?
BYU head coach Kevin Young did not attend Big 12 basketball media days on Wednesday due to an unspecified illness. Assistant coach Tim Fanning joined players Rob Wright III, Collin Chandler, and Bruce Branch III to represent the school.
Why it matters
The team is shifting its focus toward daily internal development as they prepare for the upcoming season. BYU players and staff are currently prioritizing consistent performance improvement over external projections and preseason polls.
BYU enters the season ranked 25th in the AP poll after finishing 23-12 last year. The team recently defeated Nebraska 72-61, highlighted by 36 3-point attempts and strong offensive performances from Branch, Chandler, and Wright.
The players
Kevin Young
He is the head coach of the BYU basketball program.
Tim Fanning
He serves as an assistant coach for the BYU basketball team.
Bruce Branch III
He is a player for BYU who is considered a potential first-round NBA draft selection.
Collin Chandler
He is a basketball player representing BYU.
Rob Wright III
He is a basketball player representing BYU.
The details
During the exhibition win against Nebraska, Bruce Branch III recorded 15 points, six rebounds, and five assists, while Collin Chandler and Rob Wright III added 19 and 17 points respectively. The squad utilized floor spacing tactics to facilitate their offensive production throughout the game.
Timeline
Wednesday, October 21, 2026: BYU attended Big 12 basketball media days.
Last weekend: BYU defeated Nebraska in an exhibition game.
Next summer: NBA draft selection takes place.
Season Trajectory
BYU is navigating its position in the Big 12 after being projected to finish sixth in the preseason poll. Their early success against Nebraska suggests they are looking to outperform these expectations as the competitive season begins.
Bruce Branch III has established himself as a high-impact player to watch after his 15-point, six-rebound performance against Nebraska. His potential as an NBA draft pick next summer adds significant long-term intrigue to the team's season rotation.
The takeaway
The team maintains its focus on individual growth despite the high-profile absence of their head coach. By keeping their attention on daily improvements, the program aims to build chemistry and performance consistency ahead of the season.
Further reading
For more news on the team, visit Provo Basketball.
Live Poll
Do you trust preseason rankings to accurately predict your local team's performance this year?
