Big 12 Fines Oklahoma State $50,000 for Anti-Mormon Chants

Conference condemns inappropriate behavior targeting religion during game against BYU.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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The Big 12 Conference has fined Oklahoma State University $50,000 following an investigation into inappropriate chants referencing The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly known as the Mormon church, during a men's basketball game against BYU. The conference stated it will not tolerate any behavior that targets or demeans others.

Why it matters

This incident highlights ongoing issues with fan behavior and religious intolerance in college sports. The Big 12's swift action to fine Oklahoma State sends a strong message that such conduct is unacceptable and will be punished, protecting the inclusive environment the conference aims to foster.

The details

During the game between Oklahoma State and BYU, which is the flagship school for the Mormon religion, the Oklahoma State student section was heard chanting "F--- The Mormons". The Big 12 Conference condemned the inappropriate nature of the chants, which it said did not meet the conference's standards and expectations.

  • The incident occurred during a men's basketball game between Oklahoma State and BYU on Wednesday, February 5, 2026.
  • The Big 12 Conference announced the $50,000 fine on Sunday, February 8, 2026, following an investigation into the matter.

The players

Big 12 Conference

The collegiate athletic conference that oversees sports programs at several universities in the central United States, including Oklahoma State University.

Oklahoma State University

A public research university located in Stillwater, Oklahoma, whose men's basketball team was fined by the Big 12 Conference for inappropriate fan behavior.

BYU

Brigham Young University, the flagship institution of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, whose basketball team was the target of the anti-Mormon chants from Oklahoma State fans.

Kevin Young

The head coach of the BYU men's basketball team, who reported hearing the inappropriate chants from the Oklahoma State student section.

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What they’re saying

“The reference to religion did not meet our standards and expectations.”

— Oklahoma State University (Associated Press)

“The Big 12 Conference will not tolerate any behavior that targets or demeans others.”

— Big 12 Conference (Associated Press)

What’s next

The Big 12 Conference has stated it will continue to monitor fan behavior at its member institutions to ensure an inclusive and respectful environment for all participants and spectators.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the ongoing challenge of addressing inappropriate fan behavior, particularly when it involves targeting individuals or groups based on their religious beliefs. The Big 12's swift action to fine Oklahoma State sends a clear message that such conduct will not be tolerated, reinforcing the conference's commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for all.