Point guard Rob Wright III briefly joined the transfer portal after the 2025-26 season. However, after evaluating his possibilities, he decided to return for another season with the BYU Cougars.
Wright appeared on “BYU Sports Nation” on Tuesday to discuss his choice to return. While justifying his decision, the point guard appeared to disclose that he turned down an opportunity from a coach.
“I communicated with coaches at BYU,” Wright explained. “They kind of encouraged me to just enter and see. ” And, in the end, I simply wanted to play for KY (Kevin Young). I didn’t want to play for another coach. I arrived here as a transfer student. And they truly embraced me. So, I was very grateful for it. It was a huge idea that was running through my mind. I was undecided about going to a new location and trying something different after having such a wonderful year here both on and off the court.
According to sources, Rob Wright was supposed to meet with the Kentucky Wildcats. Following his team’s defeat in the second round of the NCAA Tournament during the 2025-26 season, coach Mark Pope has been reorganizing the squad.
However, events have not gone well for the Wildcats. Aside from Wright, former Syracuse standout Donnie Freeman chose to join St. John’s rather than play for Pope’s club.
Rob Wright began his career with the Baylor Bears as a freshman. He transferred to BYU as a sophomore. The point guard appeared in 35 games, averaging 18. 1 points, 3. 5 rebounds, and 4. 6 assists. They qualified for March Madness but were ousted by Texas in the first round.
Rob Wright III discusses his connection with BYU coach Kevin Young.
During the interview, Rob Wright was asked about his friendship with BYU coach Kevin Young. The point guard revealed that the coach backed him during the entire transfer portal process.
“Me and him (Kevin Young) were talking a lot throughout the process,” Wright explained. “He always told me he had my back no matter what decision I made. Our connection has deepened significantly over the years as we have spoken more frequently. Last year, I had recently arrived here, so we were still getting to know one other. We then truly started to connect around the conclusion of the year. So I feel like coming into this year, we will be considerably stronger and more unified. ”
Kevin Young took over as BYU coach in 2024, succeeding Mark Pope, who departed for Kentucky. In two seasons, he has a 49-22 record and has reached the NCAA Tournament both times.
