In college basketball, programs at the power-conference level can thrive with ambition and the backing of wealthy donors. This was highlighted recently when Baylor transfer Robert Wright chose to join BYU. The reported financial incentive for this transfer was approximately $3 million in NIL deals.

Wright adds to the talent pool at BYU, which previously secured a commitment from AJ Dybantsa, a promising 6-foot-9 prospect and the second-ranked player in the Class of 2025, rumored to have an NIL deal worth around $5 million. This boosts their starting lineup for the upcoming season significantly.

Projected Starting Lineup for BYU:

• G: Robert Wright
• G: Richie Saunders
• F: AJ Dybantsa
• F: Mihailo Boskovic
• C: Keba Keita

Both Saunders and Keita were key starters last season for BYU, who advanced to the Sweet 16 of the 2025 NCAA Tournament while achieving a 26-10 record. During the latter part of the season, they ranked seventh nationally, trailing only elite programs like Duke, Houston, and Florida among others.

The addition of Wright, who averaged 11.5 points and 4.2 assists last season, propels BYU to number five in the current CBS Sports Top 25 preseason rankings, a notable jump from number eighteen. This upgraded lineup, featuring seasoned talents and standout newcomers, is expected to bolster BYU’s competitiveness in the upcoming season.

Top 25 And 1 Rankings

Biggest Movers:

• BYU: Up 13 spots.
• Alabama: Up 2 spots.

Details regarding the top fifteen teams in the rankings alongside their impact performances showcase the rapid evolution of BYU under the new roster dynamics. Houston continues to maintain the top spot despite recent player transfers.