Polish center Jakub Urbaniak has officially signed with Brigham Young University for the 2026‑27 season, adding a 6‑foot‑9 presence to the Cougars’ frontcourt. The move brings a blend of size, skill and overseas experience that coaches hope will translate into immediate impact on both ends of the floor.
Urbaniak spent the previous campaign with WKS Slask Wroclaw in the Polish Basketball League, where he posted averages of 9.4 points and 6.0 rebounds per game. In the EuroCup he contributed 7.7 points and 4.7 rebounds per contest, highlighted by a 17‑point performance against Hamburg Towers. He also represented the Polish National Team in FIBA World Cup European Qualifiers, scoring 11 points in a 123‑77 win over Austria, and he gained early exposure at the 2023 FIBA U20 European Championships, averaging 8.7 points and 9.0 rebounds.
Head coach Kevin Young praised the newcomer, describing Urbaniak as versatile, competitive and capable of stretching the floor. "His size, skill set and experience give us a unique edge," Young said, emphasizing the player’s ability to adapt to the physical and tactical demands of college basketball.
With roster spots still available, BYU is actively evaluating prospects, including Jaxon Kohler, who is reportedly in contact with both BYU and Kentucky staff as the recruitment cycle progresses. The coaching staff sees the addition of Urbaniak as a cornerstone for building depth and flexibility heading into the next season.
European Experience Meets Utah
Urbaniak’s European background brings a distinct style of play that complements the Cougars’ existing identity. The Polish center’s experience in high‑pressure international competitions is expected to raise the competitive standard in practice, pushing teammates to elevate their own games. His versatility allows him to operate both inside and on the perimeter, offering the team multiple lineup configurations.
On the football side of the program, running back LJ Martin earned Sporting News second‑team Preseason All‑America honors, ranking among the nation’s leaders in rushing yards and yards per game. Tight end Walker Lyons was selected for the John Mackey Award Preseason Watch List, recognizing him as one of the top collegiate tight ends, while center Bruce Mitchell earned a spot on the Rimington Trophy Watch List for elite Division I center play. These preseason accolades underscore a growing depth of talent across BYU’s fall and winter sports, setting the stage for a competitive 2026‑27 campaign.