PROVO, Utah – In a significant move for both his career and BYU basketball, standout point guard Egor Demin announced on April 8, 2025, that he will declare for the 2025 NBA Draft. The decision, made during a press conference at the Marriott Center Annex, comes after a promising freshman season that saw him help lead the Cougars to their first Sweet 16 appearance since 2011.
"I’m super excited to announce that I will be putting my name in the 2025 NBA Draft," Demin stated, expressing his eagerness to take on the new challenge ahead. At just 19 years old, the talented guard is already considered one of the top prospects in the upcoming draft, with many analysts projecting him as a first-round selection.
Demin, who hails from Moscow, Russia, joined BYU last summer after a stint with Real Madrid, where he developed into a highly regarded 5-star recruit. His transition to college basketball was marked by ups and downs, but he consistently showed flashes of brilliance, particularly in the NCAA Tournament. In three tournament games, he averaged 13.6 points and 5.7 assists, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure.
The Cougars finished the season with an impressive 26-10 record, thanks in large part to Demin's contributions. He averaged 10.6 points, 5.5 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game over the course of the season, earning him Honorable Mention All-Big 12 honors and a spot on the All-Freshman Team. His standout performances included a crucial game against Alabama, where he scored 15 points and dished out 7 assists, showcasing his potential as a dynamic playmaker.
Despite some struggles, particularly with three-point shooting—where he converted only 27.3% of his attempts—Demin's size and skill set make him an attractive prospect for NBA teams. Standing at 6 feet 9 inches with a near 7-foot wingspan, he possesses the physical attributes that scouts covet in a modern point guard.
"It’s hard to say in words how grateful I am to everyone at BYU," Demin reflected during the press conference. "This was a very difficult decision. Cougar Nation is a huge part of who I am now." His heartfelt thanks extended to his coaches and teammates, emphasizing the bond he formed during his time in Provo.
Head coach Kevin Young, who previously worked in the NBA, supported Demin's decision, stating, "Whatever his decision was, we’re behind him." Young understands the challenges players face when transitioning to the professional level, and he has been a guiding force for Demin throughout his freshman year.
As Demin embarks on his journey to the NBA, he will be aiming to improve his shooting consistency and overall game. Analysts have noted his unique passing ability, often describing him as one of the most talented all-around passers in the draft. J. Kyle Mann of The Ringer highlighted Demin's exceptional vision and creativity on the court, stating, "He makes simple reads within the flow of the offense, but most importantly, he’s gifted at using his outside-the-box thinking to pry open passing windows."
With Demin's departure, BYU faces a pivotal offseason. The Cougars will need to fill the point guard position, especially with Dallin Hall also entering the transfer portal. However, the team remains optimistic, bolstered by the arrival of the consensus No. 1 recruit, AJ Dybantsa, and other promising talents set to join the roster next season.
As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, scheduled for June 25-26 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, Demin's name will be one to watch. Many mock drafts currently project him to be selected in the lottery, with rankings varying from No. 9 to No. 19 across different outlets. His blend of size, skill, and potential makes him a compelling candidate for NBA teams looking to bolster their rosters with young talent.
In closing, Egor Demin's decision to declare for the NBA Draft marks the end of an exciting chapter in his young career. His journey from Moscow to Provo and now to the NBA is a testament to his hard work and dedication. BYU fans will undoubtedly be cheering for him as he takes this next step, and the impact of his time at BYU will be felt for years to come.
