‘The place I wanted to be:’ Syracuse transfer Tyler Betsey opens up about why he chose BYU

On what he’s learned in two seasons of college basketball thus far

“There’s a lot of ups and downs, and you can’t get caught up in the downs because if you just let things snowball, then that could be the end of your season. I just know that things could change quick, it’s game by game. You can’t let one game affect another game; you’ve just got to keep on moving and keep on pushing.”

On his experience playing at the Marriott Center as a freshman with Cincinnati in 2025

“I remember we walked into the arena for a shootaround, and I was just shocked about how big the arena is, but then also for just coming out for the layup lines, because the fans were here so early.

“It was probably just the craziest atmosphere I played in my freshman year for sure. We also lost by like 20 points, so that didn’t help. But I just remember it was just a crazy atmosphere.”

On his new relationships with BYU’s coaching staff

“It’s been cool, it’s been just a lot of basketball. The thing that really separated them from other people is just, obviously, they know I can shoot, that’s cool. They wanted me for that, but they also think I could do more and think they could help me get better at other things.

“They didn’t just tell me that, they showed me how on film, just talking and stuff like that. And that’s really what sealed the deal for me, honestly. They had a plan already on how they’re going to get me better.

“It was very specific. It wasn’t vague. I knew what they were saying. It seemed obtainable for both of us, and that’s what caused me to say yes and choose BYU.”

On returning to the Big 12

“Honestly, coming back to the Big 12 didn’t play a factor at all (in coming to BYU). I would have come to BYU if it was in any conference. But I’m definitely excited to come back, just seeing last year how many good teams they had in the Big 12.

“It’s just something you look forward to. You see what Arizona did. They’re probably one of the best, top three teams in the country.

“I watch a lot of basketball, so I watched the Big 12. We also played three Big 12 teams (at Syracuse). So I’m definitely excited to come back and compete in that conference.”

On if he’s trying to help in BYU’s search for a starting big man

“I wish, but I don’t know a guy. I’ve got faith in the staff. They know what they’re doing. I think they’re going to find a guy that’s right for us.”

Syracuse forward Tyler Betsey (5) during the second half of a game against Kansas in the Players Era tournament Las Vegas, Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2025. | Eric Gay