In a recent basketball game against Oklahoma State, the Brigham Young University (BYU) men's basketball team faced not only a formidable opponent on the court but also a wave of anti-Latter-day Saint (LDS) chants from the crowd. This incident marks the third occurrence of such chants aimed at the BYU team during away games over the past two seasons, raising concerns about the treatment of the athletes and the culture surrounding college sports. The game, held on January 7, 2023, at Gallagher-Iba Arena, saw the Cougars battling for a much-needed victory in the Big 12 Conference. However, as the game progressed, a section of the Oklahoma State student body began chanting derogatory slogans targeting the LDS faith, which is central to the identity of many BYU athletes. The chants reportedly began during the first half and continued intermittently throughout the game, creating a hostile environment for both players and fans of the Cougars. Kevin Young, head coach of the BYU basketball team, addressed the incident in a post-game press conference, expressing disappointment over the behavior exhibited by some members of the Oklahoma State crowd. "It’s disappointing to hear that kind of language in any arena, especially in a college setting where we are supposed to foster respect and sportsmanship," Young stated. He emphasized that such behavior does not reflect the values of the majority of fans who support their teams with enthusiasm and respect. This incident is not an isolated one. Over the last two seasons, BYU players have encountered similar situations at different venues, including games at the University of Utah and the University of Colorado. Each time, the negative chants have sparked discussions on social media and in sports circles about the challenges faced by teams from religious backgrounds, particularly those associated with the LDS Church. The recurrence of these chants raises questions about the culture of sportsmanship within college athletics and the responsibility of fans to create a welcoming environment for all players. The BYU basketball program, which is affiliated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has long been known for its commitment to values such as integrity, respect, and sportsmanship. The university's Honor Code encourages students to uphold these principles both on and off the court. In light of recent events, many supporters of the BYU program have called for a greater awareness of the impact that negative chanting can have on players and the overall atmosphere of college sports. In response to the chants, some BYU supporters and alumni expressed their discontent on social media, highlighting the need for a collective effort to combat intolerance and promote respect among rival fan bases. The BYU athletic department has been proactive in addressing issues related to sportsmanship and fan behavior, advocating for a culture that emphasizes respect for all individuals, regardless of their background. Fans at Oklahoma State, as well as other institutions, are encouraged to consider the implications of their words and actions. Young’s comments resonated with many who believe that college sports should be a platform for unity rather than division. "We’re all here to enjoy the game and support our teams, and that should be done in a respectful manner," he added during the press conference. As the BYU basketball team continues its season, the players and coaching staff remain focused on their performance and the goals ahead. However, the presence of anti-LDS chants serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges that student-athletes face beyond the court. The BYU Cougars will need to maintain their composure and resilience in the face of adversity, both from opponents and from sections of the crowd. Looking forward, it will be crucial for sporting institutions, including the NCAA, to address these issues head-on. Developing educational initiatives that promote respect and understanding among fans and athletes alike could be a step toward fostering a more inclusive environment in college sports. Young concluded his remarks by expressing hope that future games will be characterized by a spirit of camaraderie and respect, stating, "Let’s celebrate the game and the athletes who work so hard to compete at this level." As the conversation around sportsmanship and respect continues, the BYU basketball community remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the values that define the program. While the team prepares for its upcoming games, the focus remains on playing hard, representing their university with pride, and advocating for a culture of respect in college athletics.