November 08, 2025

Kevin Young's ALWAYS RECRUITING Philosophy on Full Display | Holy Cross Matchup Takes to Backburner to Abdullah Ahmed's Official Visit to PROvo

11 minutes

The BYU Cougars basketball team tips off their home opener against Holy Cross with major recruiting implications, as 6'10" G-League prospect Abdullah Ahmed makes an official visit to Provo. Jake Hatch provides exclusive insider analysis on whether Ahmed could become the next impact transfer for head coach Kevin Young's program.

Abdullah Ahmed: From Westchester Knicks to BYU Basketball

Ahmed brings professional experience from the Westchester Knicks organization and presents an intriguing profile as a rim-protecting center. His rebounding prowess and shot-blocking ability mirror the skill set that made Keba Keita valuable for the BYU Cougars. The recruiting battle centers on enrollment timing, with Houston also pursuing the talented big man. The NCAA's recent G-League eligibility ruling has opened new pathways for players like Ahmed to transition to college basketball.

Holy Cross Matchup: Perfect Opportunity for BYU Cougars

Holy Cross enters the Marriott Center ranked 341st out of 360 Division 1 teams in KenPom metrics, presenting BYU basketball with an ideal opportunity to refine their offensive system. Kevin Young's squad needs to establish their drive-and-kick offense by attempting approximately 30 three-pointers while building early-season confidence against overmatched competition.

Critical Areas for BYU Basketball Improvement

Following their Villanova opener, the Cougars must address several key weaknesses. Free throw shooting remains a concern that could haunt BYU in close Big 12 Conference games. Defensive rotations require sharpening, even against inferior opponents like Holy Cross. This home opener provides valuable game reps to establish offensive rhythm and defensive principles before facing tougher competition.

Recruiting Strategy and Season Outlook

The Abdullah Ahmed visit highlights BYU basketball's aggressive recruiting approach under Kevin Young. Adding another rim protector alongside Keba Keita would give the Cougars defensive versatility and depth in the frontcourt. The comparison between Ahmed's professional background and potential college impact raises fascinating questions about roster construction in modern college basketball.

This episode delivers essential insights for BYU Cougars fans tracking recruiting developments, analyzing Holy Cross as an opponent, and understanding what Kevin Young's team must accomplish to succeed in their challenging Big 12 schedule.

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Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else.

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By Locked On Podcast Network, Jake Hatch

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