BYU’s Keba Keita to Return for Senior Season
BYU secures a key player for next season as starting center Keba Keita confirms he will return for his senior year.
Keita played in all 35 games for the Cougars, averaging 7.4 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks while shooting 67% from the field. After a midseason dip during Big 12 play, Keita finished the season strong, performing at a high level over the final six weeks and emerging as one of the top big men in the conference. Keita is regarded as one of the top rebounders in the country, ranking 8th in offensive rebound percentage and 13th overall nationally. Those figures placed him 1st and 5th, respectively, in Big 12 play. Keita’s shot-blocking ability was also crucial in some of BYU’s biggest victories, including his 7 blocks across two tournament wins against VCU and Wisconsin.
Despite his impressive performance, Keita struggled with free throws, making only 41%. Improving in this area will be a key focus for him this offseason. If he can raise his free throw percentage into the 60s, it would enhance his effectiveness in crucial moments.
With Keita’s return confirmed, BYU now looks to the decisions of other returning players, including Richie Saunders, Dawson Baker, Brody Kozlowski, Egor Demin, and Mihailo Boskovic. I expect Richie, Dawson, and Brody to be back next season, though I’m less certain about Egor and Mihailo.
