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BYU's Kevin Young builds NBA pipeline with historic draft success

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 25, 2026, 6:00 PM

Last updated Jun 25, 2026

BYU's Kevin Young builds NBA pipeline with historic draft success

Summary

Kevin Young, head coach of BYU men's basketball, celebrates significant progress in his goal to develop NBA talent. Three players have been drafted in the last two years, highlighted by AJ Dybantsa's selection as the first overall pick by the Washington Wizards. Previously, only three Cougar players were drafted in the two decades before Young's hiring in 2024. The recent successes include Egor Dëmin at eighth overall last year and Richie Saunders in the second round. Young expressed pride in the achievements of his players and the momentum surrounding the program.

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By the Numbers

•AJ Dybantsa was selected first overall in the 2026 NBA Draft.
•Egor Dëmin was drafted eighth overall by the Brooklyn Nets last year.
•Richie Saunders was picked by the Memphis Grizzlies in the second round.
•BYU matched the number of players drafted in two years that they had in two decades.
•Young emphasizes the importance of player development and program visibility.

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