BYU Retires Jimmer Fredette's Jersey in Ceremony

Legendary Cougars basketball player honored with jersey retirement at halftime of win over Colorado.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Brigham Young University held a special ceremony on Saturday to retire the jersey of former basketball star Jimmer Fredette. Fredette, who played for BYU from 2007-2011, was honored at halftime of the Cougars' thrilling overtime win against Colorado. The ceremony celebrated Fredette's storied career, during which he led the nation in scoring as a senior and helped guide BYU to the Sweet 16.

Why it matters

Fredette's jersey retirement is a significant milestone that cements his legacy as one of the greatest players in BYU basketball history. His electrifying play during his college career, culminating in his National Player of the Year award, made him a global phenomenon and inspired a passionate fan base known as "Jimmermania."

The details

Fredette, a native of Glen Falls, New York, played for BYU from 2007 to 2011. In his senior season, he led the Cougars to an appearance in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament and the team was ranked as high as No. 3 in the AP Poll. Fredette led the nation in scoring that year, averaging 28.9 points per game.

  • Jimmer Fredette played for BYU from 2007 to 2011.
  • Fredette's jersey was retired during a halftime ceremony on February 15, 2026.

The players

Jimmer Fredette

A former BYU basketball player who had his jersey retired by the university in 2026 after a standout college career that included being named National Player of the Year.

AJ Dybantsa

A freshman forward on the current BYU basketball team.

Kevin Young

The head coach of the BYU basketball team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It's hard to put into words. You see the few jerseys that are up there, and it's not easy to get your jersey retired at [BYU] with a lot of the requirements that they have, so its a special thing to be able to have that.”

— Jimmer Fredette

“I don't know if words can even describe his impact on BYU basketball. I think just the fact that it turned into a true global phenomenon is incredible. The run [that] he had with Coach [Dave] Rose and all his teammates is something that I'm not sure we'll ever see in college basketball ever again at any school.”

— Kevin Young, Head Coach

What’s next

BYU plans to hold a special alumni game and fan celebration in Fredette's honor later this year.

The takeaway

Jimmer Fredette's jersey retirement ceremony at BYU underscores his lasting impact on the school's basketball program and the broader college basketball landscape. His electrifying play and global popularity during his time as a Cougar created a phenomenon that is unlikely to be replicated, cementing his status as one of the greatest players in BYU history.