DENVER — In the midst of a lively gathering of BYU supporters clad in blue at Ball Arena, Jimmer Fredette was present to witness his alma mater’s thrilling victory over Wisconsin. The Cougars managed a tense win, narrowly escaping with a 91-89 triumph on Saturday night.
Fredette, BYU’s most recent basketball standout, joined fellow fans in enduring a nerve-wracking game that saw Wisconsin nearly erase a 14-point deficit. The standout performance came from John Tonje, who racked up 37 points — the highest by any player in this year’s March Madness so far. However, his final attempt to send the game into overtime fell short. Keba Keita secured the decisive rebound, sealing the victory and wearing a broad smile as he did so.
“I was definitely on edge,” Fredette confessed amid the euphoric BYU supporters occupying the arena’s front-row seats. He commented on the dramatic shift in the game, saying, “Watching the game, I was thinking, ‘How did this get so close?’”
He went on to commend this year’s team, noting their tenacity and vigor, which he believes are key to their success. “This team is all about perseverance and heart, and with that kind of energy, you’re going to win a lot of games,” Fredette observed.
This victory propels BYU to the Sweet 16 for the first time since 2011. In that year, Fredette was taking his initial steps on a basketball journey that would include playing six seasons in the NBA and participating in the Paris Olympics with the U.S. 3×3 team.
Fourteen years ago, Fredette was in this very arena, then known as the Pepsi Center, when the Cougars last reached the Sweet 16 by defeating Gonzaga with a score of 89-67.
Fredette expressed immense pride and happiness for BYU, reflecting on how Ball Arena holds a special place in his heart. He remarked, “Following this fantastic team has been an incredible experience. I’ve caught their last few games and absolutely love their passion and energy.”
He spoke highly of Coach Kevin Young for incorporating aspects of the NBA into BYU’s program, praising the caliber of talent that has emerged. “I might not know all the technical details of the game,” Fredette admitted, “but Kevin’s approach has been impressive. Players have really embraced his vision.”
Fredette was the last player from BYU to be drafted into the NBA back in 2011. Now, there’s anticipation surrounding Egor Demon, a standout 6-foot-9 swingman from Moscow, who might declare for the NBA draft after a single standout year. Additionally, excitement builds as BYU prepares to welcome AJ Dybansta, a top national recruit, who recently made headlines by securing a lucrative NIL deal reportedly valued between $5 million and $7 million.
Fredette beamed with pride at the rising status of his alma mater and the wave of talent eager to join the program. “There’s definitely a buzz and a lot of excitement surrounding BYU right now,” he said.