BYU Cougars Look to Rebound with Strong Transfer Class and Potential Addition of Julius Halaifonua
The BYU Cougars had a disappointing end to the 2025-26 college basketball season, losing in the first round of March Madness as a No. 6 seed to the No. 11 Texas Longhorns. Despite being favored in the game, the Cougars fell short. In response to the loss, head coach Kevin Young and his staff have focused on the transfer portal, securing three commitments while seeing eight players depart. BYU's transfer class is currently ranked third in the Big 12 and 11th in the nation.
The Cougars are actively pursuing former Georgetown Hoyas center Julius Halaifonua, who had a productive season with the Hoyas, averaging career-highs in points, rebounds, and assists. Halaifonua is now exploring his options in the transfer portal and BYU is one of the schools in the mix for his services. If he joins the Cougars, he would add depth to their roster and be a valuable addition to the team.
With Halaifonua potentially joining BYU, he would be the first center added via the transfer portal this offseason. He would be joining a group of talented commits, including forward Jake Wahlin, forward Tyler Betsey, and guard Collin Chandler. The addition of Halaifonua would bolster BYU's frontcourt and provide them with a skilled player to contribute to their success on the court.