BYU added one of the most productive available big men when former Michigan State forward Jaxon Kohler committed to the Cougars.
The word “available” still requires an asterisk.
Kohler currently is eligible for a fifth college season because of a temporary injunction granted through a California court. A ruling expected Sept. 29 could change that status, according to Vanquish the Foe.
That leaves BYU preparing for a season while one of its most important players waits for another decision outside the basketball court.
Jaxon Kohler changes BYU’s ceiling
Kohler averaged 12.5 points and 8.9 rebounds last season at Michigan State while shooting 50 percent from the field.
Former Michigan State forward Jaxon Kohler, who was cleared to play after a judge granted an injunction for Class of 2022 athletes seeking a fifth year, has committed to play for BYU.
— ESPN (@espn) August 21, 2026
Kohler signed an Exhibit 10 contract and played for the Utah Jazz in summer league.…
Those numbers would immediately stabilize BYU’s interior.
The Cougars need a center who can rebound through contact, finish possessions and punish smaller lineups. Kohler also brings Big Ten experience and a clear understanding of the physical demands attached to high-level college basketball.
His presence would allow BYU to organize the rest of its frontcourt around established production.
Without him, the situation becomes much less certain.
International big man Jakub Urbaniak also is awaiting clarity from the NCAA because of changing eligibility standards involving previous competition in European leagues. BYU has shown interest in 7-foot-1 Serbian prospect Petar Ostojic, but asking a developmental newcomer to replace Kohler would be a dramatic adjustment.
Khadim Mboup and Jake Wahlin would face significantly larger responsibilities if the Cougars lose both Kohler and Urbaniak.
That is why Sept. 29 matters.
Kohler received his opportunity through a state-level case separate from several federal eligibility challenges. The current injunction allowed him to enter the transfer portal and commit to BYU, but temporary legal relief is not the same as permanent certainty.
The Cougars must prepare as if Kohler will play while maintaining an emergency plan in case the ruling changes.
It is an uncomfortable way to construct a roster, but it has become familiar across college basketball.
BYU did not create the eligibility confusion. It simply made a smart basketball move within the current rules.
If Kohler remains available, the Cougars have a proven starting big man. If he does not, one September ruling could reshape their entire season before practice truly begins.
Add us as a preferred source on Google