The BYU Cougars face a defining moment as they welcome the Iowa State Cyclones to the Marriott Center in a pivotal Big 12 basketball showdown. With Kevin Young’s program reeling from injuries—most notably to Richie Saunders—Jake Hatch spotlights how BYU’s resilience and home-court advantage could turn this perceived mismatch into a statement victory. Can the Cougars seize a signature Quad 1A win to solidify their NCAA tournament seeding and silence critics questioning their toughness and defense? The episode examines Iowa State’s road game vulnerabilities, the Cyclones’ dynamic trio of Milan Momčilović, Joshua Jefferson, and Tamin Lipsey, and how BYU’s offensive grit could give them the upper hand. Hatch analyzes the mock selection committee’s surprising projection of BYU as a 6-seed, breaking down what this means for the Cougars’ tournament trajectory and the stakes of their remaining schedule against UCF, West Virginia, Cincinnati, and Texas Tech. Turning to football, BYU is days from launching spring ball, and Kalani Sitake’s squad faces a new era with one-third of the roster turning over—33 newcomers, including high school standouts and transfers like Jaren Pula, Kennan Pula, Cade Uluave, Devaughn Eka, Paki Finau, and Zach Yamauchi, are out to prove themselves alongside returning stars Bear Bachmeier and LJ Martin. Jake Hatch emphasizes how increased internal competition and refreshed depth will be critical as BYU chases a Big 12 title and potential College Football Playoff berth. The schedule’s big tests—Notre Dame, Utah, Arizona State, and Arizona—make this spring’s culture of competition more urgent than ever, raising the question: can this rebuilt group become national contenders? Capping the episode, cheer captain and social media favorite Ammon Montenegro opens up with his inspiring recovery from sepsis and pneumonia, reflecting on what surviving a life-threatening illness taught him about gratitude, faith, and seizing the moment. Montenegro shares insights on BYU’s unique campus culture, his influential community presence, and how the support system—from coaches like Jocelyn Allen to teammates—propels both personal and university success. Don’t miss this comprehensive look at the heart, transformation, and ambition defining Cougar athletics. Support Locked On Cougars: Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube! Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here! If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub 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. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail.
Wins define the moment.
Putting in the work –
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