Jimmer Fredette understands better than anyone what it means to thrive under the intense spotlight of March Madness while playing for BYU.

As he watches this year’s Cougars team, he’s certain at least one player is bound for the NBA.

That standout is freshman Egor Demin, a 6-foot-9 playmaker from Russia.

“BYU is now a legitimate choice for top-10 lottery prospects in their first college season, a real one-and-done destination,” Fredette said when the Cougars signed Demin. “That’s what (Demin) can be, and because of that, recruits are viewing BYU differently. They’re thinking, ‘Wow, this kid chose BYU?’ That makes it a real option for them because they know he has NBA potential.”

Demin has posted averages of 10.5 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game as a freshman.

In a 6-seed vs. 11-seed matchup, BYU secured an 80-71 victory over VCU, with Demin contributing 15 points (6-11 FG, 3-7 3FG), four rebounds, and two assists, helping his team advance to a Saturday game against 3-seed Wisconsin.

Demin drew strong draft attention early in the season. Though his momentum has slightly slowed, he remains a clear NBA prospect.

“I want to see him play with aggression,” Fredette shared on the Y’s Guys podcast. “He has the height (6-9) and a strong frame. I want him to initiate contact, make his opponents uncomfortable, and use their aggression against them.”

Fredette attended BYU’s win over VCU and may be present for the Wisconsin matchup as well.

He is widely regarded as the best player in BYU history, earning National Player of the Year honors in 2011.

Fredette ended his college career with 2,599 points, 515 assists, 367 rebounds, and 167 steals, winning NPOY with an average of 28.9 points per game.

In the NBA, he played parts of six seasons, averaging 6.0 points per game, but found significant professional success in China.

Demin, having developed in Real Madrid’s system and experienced a professional atmosphere early, is well-prepared for the next level.

“He has already played professionally with Real Madrid, one of the best, if not the best, clubs in Europe,” Fredette said. “It wasn’t their top team, but the expectations to perform at a high level in that environment are extremely demanding.”