The Big 12 has fined Oklahoma State $50,000 following an investigation into “inappropriate chants” during a game against BYU in Stillwater on Wednesday.
BYU coach Kevin Young said after his team’s 99-92 loss to the Cowboys that he heard “F*** The Mormons” chants coming out of the student section. “It was a great win for Oklahoma State University. Their fans should be proud. But it would be great if some class was warranted,” Young added. “I have four small kids at home. I’m a Mormon. When I go home, they’re going to ask me about it — the same way they asked me about it last year at Arizona. There’s too much hate in the world to be saying stuff like that. We’ve got enough problems in our world without going after people’s religion and beliefs.”
This was at least the fourth time in the past year that a BYU team has been the target of such derogatory remarks. After the incident in Tucson referenced by Young, which took place on Feb. 22, 2025, Arizona issued a formal apology. The same anti-Mormon chant was heard during BYU football games at Colorado and Cincinnati. In September, the Big 12 fined Colorado $50,000 and publicly reprimanded the school.
On Thursday, the conference announced that it was investigating the incident in Stillwater. Oklahoma State president Jim Hess also released a statement addressing the matter. “The Cowboy Code calls us to treat others with respect and dignity, and we are reviewing what occurred and will address any violations of our standards of conduct appropriately,” Hess said. “Oklahoma State University values the relationship we have with BYU and deeply respects their community and their faith. I have reached out to BYU leadership directly to express our commitment to upholding the standards we expect from our community. We will continue to work with our students and fans to ensure that the atmosphere at our events reflects the values of the Cowboy family.”
BYU athletic director Brian Santiago said that he received an apology from OSU athletic director Chad Weiberg as well.
Upon concluding its investigation, the Big 12 issued the $50K penalty on Sunday afternoon. “The Big 12 Conference will not tolerate any behavior that targets or demeans others,” the league said in a statement.
Oklahoma State responded shortly after, acknowledging what happened and accepting the penalty. “The reference to religion did not meet our standards and expectations,” the university said. “Oklahoma State respects the Big 12’s decision and will not appeal the fine.”
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