The Year 2025 in BYU Sports: A Rollercoaster of Triumphs and Trials

An Eventful Year for BYU Athletics

In 2025, BYU sports was anything but dull. From athletic triumphs to headline-grabbing controversies, the year unfolded with a spectrum of storylines that would make any sports enthusiast sit up and take notice. Indeed, for fans closely following BYU’s teams, it was arguably the most unforgettable year in sports since the school began its intercollegiate athletic journey over a century ago.

A Year of Change and Triumph

The year began with significant transitions within the athletic department, as Brian Santiago was appointed to replace Tom Holmoe as athletic director. Under Holmoe’s leadership, BYU successfully navigated the move to the Big 12 but handed the reins to Santiago as a new era commenced. 2025 was also marked by notable achievements in football, men’s basketball, track, and cross-country.

Yet, not all headlines were positive. There were controversies, including coaching changes and incidents involving BYU fans that continued to spark discussions about respect and conduct in sports settings. Additionally, some high-profile athletes faced disciplinary measures due to honor code violations.

The Cougars’ Charge in Football

1. Historic Football Season: BYU football soared in its third season in the Big 12, reaching as high as No. 7 in the AP rankings and clinching a spot in its first-ever Power Four conference championship game. Despite losing star quarterback Jake Retzlaff to transfer earlier in the year, the team rallied under Bear Bachmeier’s leadership.

   The Cougars launched the season by dominating several teams, overcoming a 14-point deficit against Colorado early on. However, a significant defeat to Texas Tech raised questions about the team’s postseason bid. Ultimately, BYU’s performance was commendable, though turnovers in the championship game against Texas Tech marred their title hopes.

A Basketball Renaissance

1. Men’s Basketball Hits the Sweet 16: The BYU basketball team brought excitement to Provo with its return to the NCAA Tournament’s Sweet 16 under new head coach Kevin Young. With the powerhouse AJ Dybantsa joining the ranks and star players like Richie Saunders leading the way, the team defied expectations. Early-season upsets over reputable opponents proved BYU’s competitiveness in a tough Big 12 landscape. A final loss to Alabama in the Sweet 16, however, tempered the celebrations.

2. A Promising New Roster: The acquisition of Rob Wright from Baylor added further depth to the roster. The Cougars began the 2025-26 season with a strong performance, showcasing their talent against a daunting nonconference schedule that included a buzzer-beater victory at Madison Square Garden. Despite some setbacks, the synergy among the players kept fans hopeful for a successful campaign.

Controversies Off the Field

1. Retzlaff’s Departure: A scandal surrounding quarterback Jake Retzlaff, who faced allegations of sexual assault—eventually dismissed—led to his transfer to Tulane and ignited discussions about athlete conduct. His departure marked a pivotal moment for the team, shifting the spotlight to emerging players like Bachmeier.

2. Freshman Breakout: Stepping into the quarterback spotlight was Bear Bachmeier, who not only won the starting position but also set records for first-time freshman starters in a remarkable season. He showcased his potential with standout performances, including a decisive win against rival Utah, adding to the lore of his short but potent season.

Transitions Within the Athletic Department

1. Holmoe’s Legacy and Santiago’s Vision: Tom Holmoe’s retirement after two decades left behind a transformative legacy. His successor, Brian Santiago, entered with urgency to make his mark, aiming to leverage the momentum generated by the football program and the wider athletic department.

2. Kalani Sitake’s Contract Extension: Amid interest from Penn State, head coach Kalani Sitake reaffirmed his commitment to BYU with a long-term contract, much to the relief of fans eager to maintain program stability. His decision signalled a continued dedication to building a competitive football program.

Highlights from Track and Field to Basketball

1. Jane Hedengren’s Stellar Performance: Representing the track and field team, freshman Jane Hedengren emerged as a force, breaking multiple records and finishing strong in the NCAA Cross Country Championships. Her early victories positioned her as a future star in BYU athletics, laying the foundation for a promising career.

2. Egor Demin’s NBA Bound: After a strong finish to the basketball season, Russian point guard Egor Demin was selected by the Brooklyn Nets as the eighth overall pick in the NBA Draft. His rapid ascent underscored the growing international appeal of the BYU basketball program.

3. A Historic Signing Class: As the year wrapped up, excitement surged around the football team’s successful recruiting efforts, culminating in a signing class that included five-star quarterback Ryder Lyons. His commitment validated BYU’s enhanced recruiting potential within the Big 12 and left fans buzzing about the program’s future prospects.

Other Notable Happenings

Throughout the year, BYU athletics witnessed various developments, from stellar achievements in women’s sports to alumni excelling in professional leagues. These moments reminded everyone associated with the university that BYU’s legacy in sports is constantly evolving, as new athletes and teams capture the hearts of fans, inspire their peers, and contribute to their communities.

The year 2025 was certainly a chapter filled with twists and turns—one that set the stage for even more exciting developments in BYU sports in the years to come.