BYU star freshman Egor Demin finds himself in the middle of a crossroads after a Sweet 16 run. Nobody could've imagined he would be in this position, but here we are. Will he return to BYU to be paired with incoming top recruit AJ Dybantsa or try his luck as a projected NBA lottery pick?
Several mock drafts have Demin as a top ten pick in June's NBA Draft. A major accomplishment for anyone, especially a first-year player who isn't native the this country. His heart is torn between being in the league right now and waiting a year with no sense of urgency. It was written all over his face as Alabama set an NCAA tournament record for 3-pointers in last week's loss. If he leaves for the NBA, nobody would blame him. However, "running it back" with all eyes on Provo could be fun for Demin to be a part of next season.
Demin's family prepared him for the opportunity of playing in the NBA and waiting a year to be at this point. Being a BYU was no mistake and part of the plan. With Kevin Young coming in from the Phoenix Suns, along with a healthy NIL offering set the stage for Demin's future. His experience with the Cougars might alter any set plans that were laid out before he signed.
The NBA isn't going away and another year could build a little bit of character for Demin. This isn't a situation where he won't be featured or grow. Both of those things happened this past season. Not to mention, Young's NBA-rich staff has more experience than some G-League squads. Demin is in one of the best positions to thrive at the college level. He'll truly lose out by going to the next level.
BYU's AJ Dybansta shows off skills in McDonald's All-American Game
Whichever way Demin goes, he'll be a special asset and fun to watch. Before he makes a hard decision, there will be spirited debates of what he should do. If he comes back to BYU, it's full steam ahead for Young and the Cougars with a key piece back into the equation. Demin, Dybantsa, and Tater Tot king Richie Saunders will be a force to compete for a national championship. It would be better basketball than anything going on in Salt Lake City right now.
Demin has time to weigh his options as he works out for potential NBA suitors. The entry deadline for the 2025 NBA draft is April 26. However, he can drop out and return to BYU by June 15th, ten days before the start of the draft.
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This story was originally published April 3, 2025 at 1:41 PM.