BYU Wins at the Huntsman! Win Streak Continues vs. Utes | Evan Johnson Running it Back! | Transfer Portal Chatter | Zak Yamauchi Commits to BYU Football

The rivalry remains Blue. On today’s episode of Locked On Cougars, host Jake Hatch celebrates a massive night for BYU athletics, headlined by a thrilling 89-84 victory over the Utah Utes at the Huntsman Center. This wasn't just another win; it was a statement by Kevin Young’s squad and a historic milestone for the program. The "Big 3" Take Over Salt Lake City The atmosphere in Salt Lake City was electric, but BYU's "Big 3" proved to be too much for a feisty Utah team. We break down how AJ Dybantsa, Richie Saunders, and Rob Wright III took control of the game when it mattered most. AJ Dybantsa's Dominance: The superstar freshman lived up to the hype, showing why he’s a projected top pick with elite shot-making in a hostile environment. Richie Saunders' Heart: We discuss the "glue guy" energy and scoring punch Saunders provided, proving once again that he is the emotional heartbeat of this roster. Rob Wright III's Poise: The freshman point guard played beyond his years, navigating the Utes' pressure and facilitating a high-octane offense. History Made: With this victory, BYU has matched their longest win streak in program history. We look at the significance of this momentum as the Cougars continue their march through the Big 12 schedule. BYU Football: The "Clean Sweep" of Retention While the basketball team was winning on the court, Kalani Sitake and the BYU football staff were winning on the recruiting trail—specifically, the "internal" recruiting trail. Evan Johnson & Hunter Clegg Return: We dive into the huge news that cornerback Evan Johnson and defensive end Hunter Clegg have officially announced they will return for the 2026 season. The Full House: Following the Isaiah Glasker news, the return of Johnson and Clegg completes a "clean sweep" of BYU's top-tier talent. We analyze how keeping this defensive core intact changes the outlook for the upcoming season. Stability in the Lineup: For a program looking to take the next step in the Big 12, retaining elite edge rushing and lockdown corner talent is just as important as any portal addition. Sitake has ensured that the 2026 defense will be veteran-led and ready to compete from Day 1. Why This Matters for BYU’s Momentum We wrap up the show by looking at the "Big Picture." From the basketball court to the gridiron, BYU is proving they can retain talent and win big games. The culture Kevin Young and Kalani Sitake have built is paying dividends, and the "Blue Wave" is surging at the perfect time.