BYU is still searching for a starting big man for the upcoming basketball season, a quest that has placed the Cougars at the center of a crowded recruiting board.
Coach Kevin Young has made it clear that he wants a player who can operate away from the basket, stretch the floor and finish with authority on the lob.
A Global Search for a New Anchor
Among the candidates, Xu Xin, a 7‑foot‑5 Chinese prospect, stands out for his rim‑protection instincts and a surprising shooting touch that could stretch defenses.
Pavle Backo, a 7‑foot Serbian center, recently earned a spot on the Adidas All‑Eurocamp First Team, highlighting his blend of mobility and skill that matches Young’s ideal profile.
Lewis Uvwo, a 6‑foot‑10 high‑school standout, boasts a 7‑foot‑6 wingspan and is widely regarded as the premier shot‑blocker in his class, bringing a defensive anchor presence.
From Australia, Jongkuch Mach offers a 7‑foot‑6 frame and a growing offensive skill set, making him another tantalizing option for the Cougars.
The staff is also weighing an unnamed international guard/wing who has publicly declared BYU as his top choice, underscoring the program’s magnetic pull on prospects across continents.