Dawson Baker Announces Return to BYU Basketball
In a thrilling development for Cougar fans, Dawson Baker has officially announced he will return to BYU basketball for the 2024-2025 season. The 6-foot-4 senior guard, who transferred to BYU from UC Irvine before the 2023-2024 campaign, battled injuries last season but showcased flashes of brilliance when healthy. Now, fully recovered and committed, Baker’s return adds crucial experience, scoring, and leadership to a BYU squad looking to make waves in their second year in the Big 12 Conference.
The announcement came via a heartfelt video posted on Baker’s social media channels Friday afternoon, where he expressed gratitude for the coaching staff, teammates, and fans who stood by him through a tumultuous season. “Last year didn’t go the way I planned,” Baker admitted. “But this program, this university, and Cougar Nation have believed in me every step of the way. I’m coming back stronger — and we’ve got unfinished business.”
During the 2023-2024 season, Baker played limited minutes due to a lingering foot injury but managed to average 8.2 points per game, shooting an efficient 41% from beyond the arc. His return bolsters a BYU backcourt already brimming with talent and promises to deliver the veteran poise needed in the grind of Big 12 play.
Head coach Kevin Young, entering his first season at the helm after taking over from Mark Pope, wasted no time praising Baker’s decision. “Dawson’s toughness, skill, and high basketball IQ are exactly what we need as we build the future of BYU basketball,” Young said. “His journey last year was full of challenges, but his perseverance speaks volumes about the kind of competitor he is. We’re thrilled to have him back.”
Baker’s return also has significant implications for BYU’s offensive system. Known for his smooth midrange game, decisive drives, and perimeter shooting, Baker is expected to be a key figure in a more up-tempo, spacing-focused offense that Coach Young is implementing. Analysts project Baker could be a breakout performer if he remains healthy, with some even suggesting he has All-Big 12 Honorable Mention potential.
Teammates quickly voiced their excitement, flooding Baker’s post with support. “Let’s run it back, bro!” posted standout forward Fousseyni Traore. Guard Richie Saunders added, “Big year coming. Cougar Nation, get ready.”
Behind the scenes, sources close to the program reveal Baker had considered exploring professional options or transferring again for a fresh start. Ultimately, loyalty to BYU and unfinished personal goals tipped the scales. “Dawson is fiercely loyal,” said one insider. “He believes in what BYU is building and he wants to be a cornerstone for that next step.”
With roster stability becoming a premium in today’s transfer-heavy era, BYU’s ability to retain a seasoned scorer like Baker signals stability and optimism. Fans now eagerly await the season’s tip-off at the Marriott Center, where Dawson Baker, clad once again in Cougar blue, will look to finish what he started — and perhaps, carve his name into BYU basketball lore.
