Collin Chandler Prepares for BYU Debut on Monday
The former Kentucky guard joins BYU for the season opener after transferring back to Utah this past April.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Basketball
Live Poll
If you were a college athlete, would you prioritize being closer to home and your family?
Collin Chandler makes his debut for the BYU men's basketball team this Monday, November 2, 2026, in the season opener against Ohio State. Chandler joins the program following a stint at Kentucky during the 2025-26 season.
Why it matters
The move brings the Utah native back to a familiar collegiate environment to be closer to family while playing in a faith-promoting setting. His addition bolsters BYU's roster as he brings high-level experience from his time in the SEC.
Chandler enters his debut averaging 21 points per game in recent exhibition matchups against Nebraska and UNLV. He also demonstrated efficient shooting, hitting 40% of his attempts from behind the arc.
The players
Collin Chandler
He is a collegiate basketball player who previously played for the University of Kentucky.
Kevin Young
He is the head coach of the BYU men's basketball team responsible for leading the program.
The details
Chandler initially committed to BYU in November 2021 before departing for a two-year church mission. After spending the 2025-26 season at Kentucky, he entered the transfer portal in April 2026 and committed to coach Kevin Young's squad three days later.
Timeline
November 2021: Chandler initially commits to BYU.
April 2026: Chandler enters the NCAA transfer portal.
November 2, 2026: Chandler debuts for BYU against Ohio State.
Season Trajectory
Chandler's integration into the BYU system mirrors the modern college basketball trend of utilizing the transfer portal to quickly address specific roster needs. This move positions BYU to maintain competitiveness in the Big 12 as they leverage the experience of returned missionaries and veteran talent.
Chandler is expected to contend for the team scoring title and provide critical perimeter shooting based on his 40% exhibition success rate. His presence is part of a roster build that currently features eight Latter-day Saint players and five returned missionaries.
The takeaway
The integration of experienced transfers allows teams to adjust their competitive ceiling rapidly before the season begins. Players returning home often provide both a morale boost to the local fan base and a strategic advantage in on-court chemistry.
Further reading
For more on the current team outlook, visit the Basketball page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Deseret News.
Live Poll
If you were a college athlete, would you prioritize being closer to home and your family?
