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BYU Athletics Recap: 2025 Highlights and 2026 Outlook

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, January 18th 2026 at 11:31 GMT by Deseret News

Provo, Utah - January 18th, 2026 - 2025 proved to be another remarkable year for Brigham Young University (BYU) Athletics, a testament to the dedication of athletes, coaches, and the unwavering support of the Cougar faithful. While the sheer volume of success made identifying the most compelling stories challenging, several moments stand out as defining moments for the university's athletic programs. This recap reflects on 2025's highlights and briefly previews expectations for 2026.

Football's Resurgence: From Doubt to Optimism

Perhaps the most surprising and arguably most impactful story of 2025 was the turnaround of the BYU Football program. Following a disappointing 2024 season that raised concerns about the Cougars' place within the Big 12 Conference, the team defied all expectations. Finishing the season with a 9-4 record secured them a coveted spot in the Liberty Bowl - a significant victory demonstrating renewed competitiveness. The emergence of quarterback Kyler Mottram as a true leader was instrumental to this turnaround, showcasing poise and skill under pressure. Furthermore, a significantly improved defensive performance showcased the impact of strategic coaching adjustments. While the Liberty Bowl outcome itself wasn't the focus, the journey to that point provided a much-needed surge of optimism and re-established BYU's position within the conference. The coaching staff's ability to adapt and inspire the team was critical to this successful season.

Volleyball: Continuing a Dynasty

Unsurprisingly, the BYU Women's Volleyball team once again dominated the collegiate landscape. Their undefeated regular season performance culminated in a triumphant 11th national championship, solidifying their status as a perennial powerhouse. Senior McKenna Keller was the driving force behind the team's success, consistently demonstrating exceptional athleticism and leadership. The team's unwavering focus and technical prowess made them virtually unbeatable, consistently exceeding expectations and demonstrating the culmination of years of rigorous training and a strong team culture.

Basketball's Sweet Sixteen Surprise

The BYU Men's Basketball team's journey throughout the 2025-2026 season was a narrative of perseverance. Starting the season with a less-than-ideal record, the team rallied, finding their rhythm at precisely the right moment. Their remarkable run to the Sweet Sixteen in the NCAA Tournament was a testament to their resilience and determination, inspiring fans and proving the power of teamwork. The ability to overcome early challenges and peak during the tournament speaks volumes about the team's character and the effectiveness of their coaching strategies.

Track and Field and Gymnastics: Consistency and Excellence

Beyond the high-profile narratives of football, volleyball, and basketball, BYU's track and field and gymnastics programs continued their consistent tradition of excellence. The track and field program produced numerous All-American athletes, with senior Benji Stanley setting a record in the high jump, an achievement that garnered national attention. The gymnastics team, renowned for its disciplined approach and unwavering consistency, once again secured a place among the nation's elite, finishing in the top 10 at the NCAA Championships. These consistent high rankings are a direct result of exceptional coaching and a deeply ingrained culture of dedication and hard work.

Beyond the Headlines: Other Notable Achievements

While the spotlight rightly shone on the programs mentioned above, other BYU athletic teams also enjoyed success. The Women's Soccer team's strong performance and advancement to the second round of the NCAA Tournament demonstrated their continued growth and potential. Both the Cross Country teams showcased impressive results at the NCAA Championships, while the Swimming and Diving team provided numerous standout individual performances throughout the year.

Looking Ahead: 2026 and Beyond

As 2026 approaches, BYU Athletics faces a future brimming with possibilities. The return of key players across multiple sports, combined with the influx of promising recruits, sets the stage for another year of intense competition. The foundation laid in 2025 - resilience, dedication, and a culture of excellence - provides a strong springboard for continued success. The Big 12 remains a competitive landscape for football, and the volleyball team aims to continue its dynasty. Overall, the Cougar faithful can anticipate an exciting and dynamic year for BYU Athletics.