Sport: Basketball Category: Transactions

BYU still searching for big man recruit as summer approaches

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 20, 2026, 8:13 PM

Last updated Jun 20, 2026

BYU still searching for big man recruit as summer approaches

Summary

As of June 20, 2026, BYU's search for a starting big man continues. Head coach Kevin Young indicated the team has been focused on one particular recruit, with growing urgency as summer workouts progress. The Cougars are particularly interested in Xu Xin, a 7-foot-5 center from China, and Pavle Backo, a 7-foot Serbian who recently withdrew from the NBA Draft. Both players possess skills that align with BYU’s needs for a versatile big man. The team's plans may hinge on their eligibility and recruitment outcomes in the coming weeks.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Kevin Young confirmed that BYU focuses on one recruit currently.
•Xu Xin is a 7-foot-5 Chinese center with rim protection skills.
•Pavle Backo withdrew from the NBA Draft, making him available for college recruitment.
•BYU has communicated with multiple prospects despite focusing on one main target.
•Summer workouts are ongoing, increasing the urgency for a roster completion.

Latest Updates

8:13 PMYahoo Sports — BYU Basketball Recruiting Notebook: Who is the Mystery Big Man Recruit?

What they're saying

"
If you would have asked me after BYU’s season ended March 19 when BYU would get a starting big man, I would have told you I certainly I expected someone before the end of April. Definitely by Mother’s Day. Before the end of June, of course! Now, we’re on the eve of Father’s Day and […]
— Yahoo Sports

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