In one of the biggest transfer moves of the college basketball offseason, standout forward Marcus Wright has accepted a lucrative \$3.5 million NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deal to join the BYU Cougars for the upcoming season. The deal not only turns heads nationally but signals BYU’s growing commitment to becoming a serious player on the college basketball stage, especially as a member of the Big 12 Conference.
Wright, a 6-foot-9 versatile forward with elite scoring ability and three-point shooting range, had been one of the most sought-after players in the portal this year. After originally declaring for the NBA Draft, Wright elected to return to college for another season and quickly became a top target for high-major programs across the country. His final decision to join BYU over several blue-blood programs is a major coup for head coach Kevin Young, who is entering his first season with the Cougars and making an immediate impact.
Sources close to Wright say the decision was based on several key factors: the opportunity to play a featured role in a high-octane offense, the chance to develop under an NBA-experienced coach in Young, and the strong NIL package presented through BYU’s collective. The \$3.5 million deal is reportedly structured with brand partnerships, endorsements, and community-based initiatives, making it one of the largest NIL deals in college basketball this year.
On the court, Wright brings instant firepower to the Cougars’ frontcourt. Known for his smooth shooting stroke, explosive athleticism, and ability to defend multiple positions, he averaged 17.8 points and 7.2 rebounds last season while shooting 39% from beyond the arc. His presence gives BYU a legitimate go-to scorer and a potential All-American candidate in the Big 12 — widely considered the toughest conference in college basketball.
Coach Kevin Young praised the addition, stating, “Marcus is a game-changer for our program. He brings a combination of skill, experience, and leadership that will elevate not only our team but the culture we’re building here at BYU.”
The move has already energized the BYU fan base and puts the Cougars squarely in the national spotlight heading into the 2025 season. With Wright now in the fold, BYU is expected to contend for a top spot in the Big 12 and earn serious NCAA Tournament consideration.
For Wright, the move offers the best of both worlds — a significant financial opportunity and a platform to further develop his game against elite competition. For BYU, it marks a bold new era in recruiting and competitive ambition. The Cougars are no longer content to be overlooked — they’re ready to compete with the nation’s best.