STILLWATER, OK – BYU coach Kevin Young is calling for change after allegedly hearing anti-Mormon chants at Brigham Young University’s game against Oklahoma State University (OSU) on Wednesday (Feb. 4). The college basketball coach, who is Mormon, spoke out following his team’s loss.
“There were some ‘F The Mormons’ chants tonight by the student section that I heard,” Young said during his postgame news conference. “It was a great win for Oklahoma State University,” the BYU coach added. “I think their fans should be proud, but it would be great if some class was warranted.”
Young went on to tell the press, “I got four small kids at home, I’m a Mormon, and when I go home, they’re going to ask me about it, the same way they asked me about it last year at Arizona.”
BYU was subjected to anti-Mormon chants last season when the basketball team competed against the Wildcats of the University of Arizona in Tucson. The Wildcats lost that particular game, and University of Arizona school officials apologized for the behavior of fans.
The Big 12 said in a statement that it is investigating the most recent accusations of anti-Mormon chants reportedly coming from Oklahoma State fans. “The Conference has zero tolerance for behavior of this nature and will address the matter in accordance with Big 12 sportsmanship policies,” the league shared.
Oklahoma State President Jim Hess also made a statement regarding Wednesday’s events. “The Cowboy Code calls us to treat others with respect and dignity, and we are reviewing what occurred and will address any violations of our standards of conduct appropriately,” Hess said.
“Oklahoma State University values the relationship we have with BYU and deeply respects their community and their faith. I have reached out to BYU leadership directly to express our commitment to upholding the standards we expect from our community. We will continue to work with our students and fans to ensure that the atmosphere at our events reflects the values of the Cowboy family.”