BREAKING: BYU Star Egor Demin Declares for 2025 NBA Draft — Coach Kevin Young Stunned by Bold Move
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the college basketball world, BYU Cougars standout guard Egor Demin has officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft. The 6-foot-8 international sensation announced his decision in a heartfelt social media post earlier today, expressing gratitude for his time at BYU and excitement for the next chapter of his basketball journey.
Demin’s announcement comes on the heels of an impressive season where he averaged 17.4 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game, earning All-Big 12 honors and putting the Cougars on the national radar. Known for his versatility, high basketball IQ, and smooth shooting stroke, Demin has been rising on NBA draft boards for months. Still, his decision to leave BYU after just one season has caught many off guard — including BYU’s newly appointed head coach Kevin Young.
“I was definitely surprised,” Coach Young said during an impromptu press conference following the announcement. “We knew Egor had the talent to go pro, but I honestly thought we’d have him for at least another year. He’s a special player and an even better person. We’re proud of him and will support him every step of the way.”
Demin, a native of Russia, came to BYU with high expectations after a standout junior international career. Despite the pressure, he not only lived up to the hype but exceeded it, quickly becoming the face of the program. His ability to score from all three levels, combined with his playmaking and defensive tenacity, made him one of the most complete guards in college basketball.
NBA scouts have taken notice, with some comparing him to a young Luka Dončić due to his size, vision, and poise. While it’s still unclear exactly where Demin will fall in the draft, some experts project him as a mid-to-late first-round pick with the potential to climb even higher following pre-draft workouts and the NBA Combine.
Fans, meanwhile, are feeling a mix of pride and heartbreak. Social media has been flooded with messages of support and thanks, celebrating Demin’s impact on the program and wishing him well in the pros. BYU’s student section, famously known as the “ROC,” even began planning a tribute night for their departing star.
For BYU, Demin’s departure creates a big hole to fill, but also serves as a recruiting win — showing the world that Provo, Utah, can be a legitimate launchpad to the NBA. For Demin, it’s the next big step in a career that seems destined for stardom.
As he begins this new chapter, one thing is certain: Egor Demin’s legacy at BYU is secure, and the basketball world will be watching closely to see where his journey takes him next.