In recent weeks, the atmosphere surrounding college athletics has been marred by instances of derogatory fan behavior, particularly aimed at the Brigham Young University (BYU) community. This troubling trend culminated in an incident during a men’s basketball game against Oklahoma State University (OSU), where fans reportedly chanted a profane phrase targeting members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly known as the Mormon church. This marks at least the fourth occasion in just over a year where BYU teams have been subjected to similar chants in various venues, prompting an urgent response from both BYU and the Big 12 Conference. Following the Cougars' narrow 99-92 loss to OSU on Wednesday night, BYU men's basketball coach Kevin Young addressed the hostile chants, expressing concern over the impact such behavior has on athletes and their families. "It's a great win for Oklahoma State University. Their fans should be proud. It would be great if some class was warranted in there as well," he remarked, highlighting the emotional toll on players, particularly given his own role as a father. Young, who identifies as a Mormon, noted that his children would undoubtedly have questions about the chants, reflecting a broader societal issue of intolerance and hate. "There's just too much hate in the world to be saying stuff like that. We've got enough problems in our world without going at people's religion and beliefs and whether it's in vogue or not," he added, emphasizing the need for mutual respect in sporting events. BYU athletic director Brian Santiago, who was not present at the game, reported that he received an apology from OSU athletic director Chad Weiberg. Santiago stressed the importance of eradicating such behavior and the cycle of apologies that follow these incidents. "What we're trying to do is eliminate the behavior from happening and the apologies that come afterward," he stated during an interview with The Associated Press. He characterized the chants as not only hurtful but also discriminatory, asserting that they contribute to a sense of insecurity among members of the faith. "It's super hurtful and unacceptable for these chants to be going on, these discriminatory chants, against our religion, against any religion," he said. Santiago expressed appreciation for various Big 12 institutions that have taken proactive measures to discourage such behavior. He noted that many schools have issued pre-game announcements urging fans to refrain from using abusive language directed at players, coaches, and officials. Santiago specifically commended Texas Tech's men’s basketball coach Grant McCasland for his efforts to foster a positive atmosphere by encouraging fans to support their team without resorting to negativity towards BYU. Similarly, Arizona’s athletic director, Desire Reed-Francois, had reached out to fans prior to a game against BYU, asking them to exhibit respect and promoting a BYU-sponsored literacy service project in the community. The ongoing issue of anti-Mormon sentiments in sports has raised questions about the underlying reasons for such hostility. Santiago remarked on the perplexing nature of this discrimination, stating, "It's a little confusing to us why there is hate toward us when we are a church built and founded on the savior Jesus Christ and filling the world with love and that we're all connected and brothers and sisters and trying to lift and help each other. Not sure exactly why, but unfortunately in the history of our church, there has been a lot of persecution, and we're going to continue to rise above it." In response to the situation, OSU President Jim Hess issued a statement denouncing any behavior that targets or demeans individuals or communities. He reaffirmed the university's commitment to treating everyone with respect and dignity, referencing the Cowboy Code, which embodies the institution's values. "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 stated. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining a respectful relationship with BYU and their community. This recent incident is not isolated. In February, Arizona publicly apologized after fans participated in an unacceptable chant directed at Mormons during a game, while Colorado faced a similar backlash in September, resulting in a $50,000 fine from the Big 12 for fan misconduct. Cincinnati also issued an apology for anti-Mormon chants during a football game against BYU in November. In light of these repeated incidents, Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark announced that the conference is investigating the recent events in Stillwater. "All parties have been notified," he said, affirming the conference's commitment to a zero-tolerance policy for such behavior. "The Conference has zero tolerance for behavior of this nature and will address the matter in accordance with Big 12 sportsmanship policies." As BYU and the Big 12 navigate these challenges, the hope remains that ongoing discussions and actions will lead to a more respectful and inclusive environment in collegiate athletics, where all fans and players can participate without fear of discrimination or hostility based on their beliefs.