In an exciting development for both the NBA and college basketball, Phoenix Suns Associate Head Coach Kevin Young is reportedly in the final stages of accepting an offer to become the new head coach of Brigham Young University (BYU), according to NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski. Sources close to the situation have confirmed that Young recently interviewed for the position and has since accepted the offer.

This news comes as no surprise, considering Young has been the top target for both Danny Ainge, former Boston Celtics executive and current special advisor to the Utah Jazz, and Ryan Smith, owner of the Utah Jazz. Ainge and Smith's efforts in pursuing Young played a pivotal role in convincing him to seriously consider the BYU job. Additionally, Young's personal ties to the area, with his wife being an alumna of BYU and having family in the vicinity, further solidified his decision to join the program in Provo.

Sources have further revealed that Young was the sole candidate formally interviewed by BYU, highlighting the level of interest and confidence the university has in his coaching abilities. At just 42 years old, Young is regarded as one of the most highly-respected up-and-coming coaches in the NBA. His recent contract with the Suns, signed in June 2023, made him the highest-paid assistant coach in the league, further cementing his reputation and value within the coaching fraternity.

Young's coaching career dates back to 2006, with one season as an assistant at Utah Valley University. Since then, he has been involved with various G-League and NBA teams, earning the role of head coach for three G-League teams between 2010 and 2016. In 2016, Young joined the Philadelphia 76ers' coaching staff, remaining with the team until 2020. He subsequently took up an assistant position with the Suns in 2021 and has since been promoted to associate head coach.

Recently, Young emerged as one of the three finalists for the Brooklyn Nets' head coaching job, demonstrating his growing reputation and recognition within the NBA coaching landscape. While his lack of college coaching experience may be seen as a potential drawback, sources indicate that BYU is actively working on assembling a strong assistant coach lineup to support Young. This approach aims to facilitate his transition into the college ranks and provide a seasoned staff familiar with the intricacies of the collegiate game.

The allure of working under Young, with his distinguished NBA background, has attracted interest from potential assistant coaching candidates who recognize the potential career growth opportunities associated with his appointment to BYU. Despite the challenges that NBA coaches historically face in transitioning to the college level, it is widely acknowledged that a competent and experienced staff will prove crucial in helping Young navigate the unique demands of the college basketball landscape.

As the final details of the agreement between Kevin Young and BYU are being ironed out, the basketball world eagerly awaits the formal announcement of his appointment as the new head coach of the BYU men's basketball program. The hiring of Young has the potential to be a home run for BYU, bringing in a highly regarded coach with a wealth of NBA experience and the determination to guide the Cougars to new heights.