Lee Cummard: From Trusted Mentor to BYU’s Newest Coaching Visionary
In the high-stakes world of college basketball, success is often built on relationships as much as talent. Few people understand that better than Lee Cummard, a former standout player at BYU who has steadily climbed the coaching ranks to become the eighth head coach of the Cougars’ women’s basketball program. His journey—one marked by perseverance, mentorship, and a relentless commitment to the values of BYU—has led him to this defining moment.
From Player to Coach: A Legacy of Leadership
Long before Cummard was calling the shots from the sidelines, he was a highly respected player at BYU, earning all-conference honors before embarking on a professional basketball career that took him from the NBA’s developmental league to international courts. But in 2016, as he transitioned into a coaching role as a graduate assistant for BYU’s men’s basketball team, his true calling began to take shape.
A defining moment came at Los Angeles International Airport after a tough 91-84 loss to USC. As the team prepared to board their flight, one by one, nearly every player gravitated toward Cummard, seeking his wisdom, comfort, and advice. It was a clear sign of the trust and connection he had built with his teammates. That ability to foster meaningful relationships would go on to shape his coaching philosophy.
Since then, Cummard has gained experience under legendary BYU coaches like Dave Rose, Jeff Judkins, and Amber Whiting. With each role—whether as an assistant for the men’s team or the women’s program—he absorbed different coaching styles, strategies, and insights.
“They all had very unique approaches to coaching,” Cummard said. “Coach Rose was relentless in his focus on players, always thinking about how to elevate them. Judkins had this effortless ability to connect—his smile and demeanor made him approachable, and his game knowledge was unparalleled. And Coach Whiting brought an unmatched level of fight and determination. I’ve taken pieces from all of them to shape my own philosophy.”
A New Era for BYU Women’s Basketball
Cummard steps into the head coaching role at a pivotal time. The Cougars are looking to reestablish themselves as contenders in the highly competitive Big 12, following a rocky stretch under Whiting. The team finished with an overall record below .500, and their conference struggles were evident—going just 19-35 in league play across the past two seasons.
Further complicating the transition, BYU is facing roster challenges. Starters Emma Calvert and Kemery Congdon have graduated, while Amari Whiting, a key contributor, has transferred to Oklahoma State. Additionally, standout freshman and elite three-point shooter Kailey Woolston had reportedly entered the transfer portal, though her status remains in flux as she serves a church mission.
Despite these setbacks, Cummard has already secured an early win—convincing Big 12 Freshman of the Year Delaney Gibb to stay with the program. As the lead recruiter responsible for bringing Gibb to Provo, Cummard’s strong relationship with the rising star played a crucial role in her decision.
“I feel like he forms genuine relationships,” Gibb said in an interview on BYU Sports Nation. “At this point, he’s like family to me. I’ve known him for so long, and I’m excited to build on that as he steps into this new role.”
Building a Program Centered on the BYU Experience
One of the key elements Cummard believes will set him apart as a head coach is his deep understanding of BYU’s culture and values. Unlike his predecessors, he has firsthand experience as a Cougar athlete, giving him a unique perspective on what it means to wear the BYU jersey.
“I really feel like that’s a competitive advantage for me,” Cummard explained. “I want players who embrace what BYU stands for—players who are proud to represent this program and aren’t just here for personal accolades. That’s the foundation I’m building on.”
Recruiting will be a critical aspect of his success, and Cummard is confident in BYU’s ability to attract top-tier talent. “The message doesn’t change: BYU is a special place. It’s a university that develops people—not just players. And I guarantee you, if you come here, you’ll grow in every aspect of your life. Plus, we have a winning tradition, and I fully intend to carry that forward.”
The Right Coach at the Right Time
BYU’s director of athletics, Tom Holmoe, believes Cummard’s combination of toughness, competitiveness, and emotional intelligence makes him the perfect fit for this role.
“Coaching is incredibly complex in today’s world,” Holmoe said at Cummard’s introductory press conference. “There’s no single path to success, and coaches are dealing with challenges that didn’t exist before. But Lee has the right mix—he’s tough when he needs to be, compassionate when it matters, and he understands what it takes to build a winning culture.”
The Road Ahead
Cummard’s mission is clear: rebuild the program, establish a culture of excellence, and return BYU to national prominence. It won’t be easy, but if his track record as a player, mentor, and coach is any indication, the Cougars are in good hands.
“We’re already making progress,” Cummard said confidently. “The future is bright for BYU women’s basketball, and I’m ready to take this program to new heights.”
With a relentless work ethic, deep-rooted passion for BYU, and a knack for forming unbreakable bonds with players, Cummard is poised to lead the Cougars into an exciting new era—one built on relationships, resilience, and, most importantly, winning.
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