Top BYU Men's Basketball Players Of All Time

\nBYU basketball, guys, has a rich history filled with amazing players who've left their mark on the court. From high-scoring dynamos to defensive stalwarts, these athletes have brought excitement and pride to Brigham Young University. Let's dive into some of the best BYU men's basketball players ever to grace the hardwood.

Danny Ainge

When you talk about BYU basketball legends, Danny Ainge's name immediately comes up. Ainge was an absolute phenomenon during his time with the Cougars from 1977 to 1981. What made Ainge so special? Well, for starters, he was incredibly versatile. He could score, pass, rebound, and play defense at an elite level.

Ainge's scoring ability was truly remarkable. He had a knack for getting to the basket, hitting tough shots, and making clutch free throws. But he wasn't just a scorer; he was also an exceptional playmaker. Ainge had incredible court vision and a knack for finding open teammates, making him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

One of the most memorable moments of Ainge's career came in the 1981 NCAA Tournament when he dribbled the length of the court in the final seconds to score a game-winning layup against Notre Dame. That play is still talked about today and is a testament to Ainge's athleticism, skill, and clutch performance. Beyond his individual brilliance, Ainge was also a great leader. He led the Cougars to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and helped put BYU basketball on the map. After his stellar college career, Ainge went on to have a successful NBA career, winning two championships with the Boston Celtics. His time at BYU, however, remains legendary, cementing his status as one of the greatest players in program history. Ainge set the standard for future BYU stars and continues to inspire generations of Cougars players and fans.

Tyler Haws

Next up on our list of BYU basketball greats is Tyler Haws. Haws played for the Cougars from 2009 to 2015 (with a two-year break for a mission) and established himself as one of the most prolific scorers in program history. What set Haws apart was his incredible offensive arsenal and his relentless work ethic.

Haws had a knack for scoring in a variety of ways. He could drive to the basket, pull up for mid-range jumpers, and knock down three-pointers with consistency. His offensive versatility made him incredibly difficult to guard, as defenders never knew what he was going to do next. He wasn't just a scorer, though; Haws was also a smart player who knew how to use his body to create space and get open looks.

One of the most impressive aspects of Haws's game was his consistency. He scored double figures in almost every game of his career, and he had a knack for coming up big in crucial moments. He holds the record for the most points scored in BYU basketball history, a testament to his scoring prowess and longevity. Beyond his individual accomplishments, Haws was also a dedicated teammate and leader. He led the Cougars to multiple postseason appearances and helped maintain a high level of success during his time in Provo. Haws's scoring records and his impact on the program have solidified his place as one of the all-time greats at BYU. He is remembered fondly by Cougars fans for his scoring ability, his work ethic, and his commitment to the team.

Jimmer Fredette

No discussion about BYU basketball legends would be complete without mentioning Jimmer Fredette. Jimmer, as he's affectionately known, was a sensation during his time with the Cougars from 2007 to 2011. What made Jimmer so special? Well, for starters, he had unlimited range and a knack for hitting shots from anywhere on the court.

Jimmer's scoring ability was truly remarkable. He could pull up from well beyond the three-point line, and he had a knack for making shots that seemed impossible. He had a scorer's mentality, always looking for his shot and never afraid to take the big one. But he wasn't just a scorer; Jimmer was also a skilled ball-handler and passer. He could create his own shot, and he had a knack for finding open teammates when defenses collapsed on him.

The 2010-2011 season was Jimmer's signature year. He averaged nearly 29 points per game, leading the nation in scoring and earning national player of the year honors. He had numerous memorable performances that season, including a 52-point outburst against New Mexico, showcasing his incredible scoring ability. Jimmer-mania swept the nation as fans tuned in to watch him light up the scoreboard night after night. Beyond his individual brilliance, Jimmer also led the Cougars to unprecedented success. He led them to the Sweet Sixteen of the NCAA Tournament, their deepest run in decades, and helped put BYU basketball back on the national stage. Jimmer's scoring records, his electrifying performances, and his impact on the program have cemented his place as one of the all-time greats at BYU. He is remembered fondly by Cougars fans for his incredible shooting ability, his exciting style of play, and his unforgettable moments on the court.

Krešimir Ćosić

Krešimir Ćosić is another iconic figure in BYU basketball history. Ćosić played for the Cougars from 1970 to 1973, and he left a lasting legacy on the program. What made Ćosić so special? Well, for starters, he was one of the first international players to make a significant impact on college basketball.

Ćosić was a versatile player who could do it all. He was a skilled scorer, passer, rebounder, and defender. He had a unique blend of size, skill, and basketball IQ that made him a force to be reckoned with. He was also a great leader who helped elevate the play of his teammates.

Ćosić's impact on BYU basketball extended beyond the court. He helped to globalize the game and pave the way for future international players. He was a cultural ambassador who brought a different perspective and style of play to the Cougars. After his stellar college career, Ćosić went on to have a successful professional career in Europe, where he continued to showcase his incredible talent and leadership. Ćosić's contributions to BYU basketball have not been forgotten. He is remembered as a trailblazer, a great player, and a true ambassador for the game. His legacy continues to inspire Cougars players and fans to this day.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys, a look at some of the best BYU men's basketball players of all time. These athletes have not only achieved individual greatness but have also contributed to the rich tradition and success of the BYU basketball program. They represent the best of what BYU basketball has to offer and serve as an inspiration to future generations of Cougars players. From Danny Ainge's all-around brilliance to Tyler Haws's scoring prowess, Jimmer Fredette's electrifying performances, and Krešimir Ćosić's international influence, these players have left an indelible mark on BYU basketball history. They will always be remembered fondly by Cougars fans for their incredible talent, their dedication to the team, and their unforgettable moments on the court. These legends have helped shape the identity of BYU basketball and have set a high standard for future players to follow. Their legacy will continue to inspire and motivate Cougars players and fans for years to come.