Predicted Big 12 Men’s Basketball Champion for 2025-26: Deseret News Forecast

The Big 12 Men’s Basketball landscape is shifting as teams prepare for the 2025-26 season. According to the preseason coaches’ poll results, BYU is projected to be a formidable contender, while Utah faces challenges.

BYU: A Strong Contender in the Big 12

BYU has positioned itself near the top of the Big 12, ranked second in the preseason poll. Remarkably, the Cougars received one first-place vote, marking their highest projection since joining the conference. Their previous season was impressive, concluding with a 26-10 overall record and a 14-6 mark in conference play, which tied them for third place.

Head coach Kevin Young’s leadership played a crucial role in BYU’s success, which included a run to the Sweet Sixteen. The upcoming season is set to be even more thrilling with standout players like true freshman AJ Dybantsa and returning talent Richie Saunders. Dybantsa, the top recruit in BYU history, was a unanimous selection for the preseason All-Big 12 team, although he was edged out by Kansas’ Darryn Peterson for the Preseason Freshman of the Year award.

Key Players for BYU

• AJ Dybantsa – True freshman and top recruit
• Richie Saunders – Returning All-Big 12 performer
• Rob Wright III – Transfer from Baylor, adding depth to the roster

BYU’s season opener is scheduled for November 3 against Villanova, a clash that promises excitement. They will kick off their conference play on January 3 at Kansas State.

Utah: Rebuilding for Success

In contrast, Utah finds itself projected to finish 13th in the Big 12. This ranking represents an improvement over the previous season when they were predicted to be last. The Utes ended their last campaign with a 16-17 overall record and an 8-12 mark in Big 12 play.

With a new coach, Alex Jensen, taking the reins after Craig Smith’s departure, the Utes aim to rejuvenate their roster. This year, there are 12 newcomers among the players, with only three holdovers from last season. Leader Keanu Dawes, along with transfers Jahki Howard, Elijah “Choppa” Moore, and Terrence Brown, will be critical in shaping the team’s success.

Upcoming Games for Utah

• Season opener on November 3 at home against San Jose State
• First Big 12 game on January 3 against Arizona at the Huntsman Center

Preseason Coaches Poll Overview

As the season approaches, expectations grow for both programs. BYU aims to leverage its talent and experience, while Utah works to establish a robust foundation for future success.