For the first time in the Kevin Young era, BYU basketball fans got to see the team take the Marriott Center floor in last night's "Marriott Madness" evening of hoops. For a new team stuffed with unbelievable talent, this was a can't-miss event.
Assuming some of you misunderstood this to be a can-miss event, here are some of the highlights from the BYU hoops preview.
First look at Egor Demin
The Russian hoops star was on display last night, and the Cougar fans rightfully lost their minds in excitement. The highest-rated recruit in BYU basketball history (yes, even higher than Collin Chandler) and a projected NBA lottery selection will likely be the happiest fans have been about one man since the legendary James Taft Fredette (if only that guy had a snappier nickname).
As his name was announced, Egor's rock star status was secured.
#BYU fans are pumped for Egor Demin.#BYUHoops pic.twitter.com/j9Q3EblDkD
— Mitch Harper (@Mitch_Harper) October 4, 2024
He even hopped in with the ROC for a bit just to get involved in the "Power" ritual.
Egor Demin rockin with the ROC#BYUBasketball #BYU #ROC #GoCougs pic.twitter.com/lQdrp0hcqO
— Ally Braithwaite (@allyb_7) October 4, 2024
Elijah Crawford vaulted a Cougar
Cougars aren't that tall, so this headline may not amaze you, but keep in mind this Cougar is roughly 6 feet tall, and incredibly strong. One wrong move could have spelled disaster for the freshman guard, but he cleared the challenge beautifully.
every angle @elijah1crawford 🤳 pic.twitter.com/ZUDGAB9H35
— BYU Men's Basketball (@BYUMBB) October 4, 2024
He killed it during the dunk contest, and Elijah Crawford will be someone to watch this season--he's going to be good.
Dawson Baker, for real this time
After missing quite some time with injury, pure scorer Dawson Baker will finally be ready to suit up for the Cougars this year, and he's ready to fill up the stat sheet.
remember it: BINGO🫡 pic.twitter.com/1g9BX5zB3a
— BYU Men's Basketball (@BYUMBB) October 4, 2024
Kanon Catchings dropped the hammer!
Kanon Catchings is the type of athlete that we don't often see suit up with "Brigham Young" on his uniform. He's already gaining buzz around NBA circles and the season hasn't even begun. Catchings is currently projected to be a late first-round pick, but I expect his draft stock to rise.
He certainly rose up last night.
Kanon Catchings putting on a show at BYU for the first time 👀 @kanoncatchings @BYUMBB pic.twitter.com/v5uRoUAFtl
— Overtime Elite (@OvertimeElite) October 4, 2024
Sure, football is in full swing, but it's never a bad idea to get excited for the basketball season. And we've never been more excited to see the Cougs take the floor than at this very moment.