LJ Martin Persuaded His Mother Prior to Switching Commitment From Stanford to BYU
BYU RB LJ Martin Talks About Choosing BYU Over Stanford
LJ Martin #4 of the BYU Cougars…
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“Education was one of the most important things for me leaving high school,” Martin explained. “Stanford is well-regarded for academics and the prestige that comes with it. That made it a major option I strongly considered.”
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Near the end of the 2022 season, BYU went to Palo Alto and defeated Stanford by nine points. That same night, David Shaw announced his resignation during his postgame media session.
With Shaw stepping away, Martin decided to open up his recruitment again.
“They had a coaching change right after BYU beat them that first time,” said the El Paso, Texas native. “So at that point, I had to look at other opportunities.”
Martin connected with BYU running backs coach Harvey Unga in December and later toured campus in Provo.
“(I) came out here for a visit, (and) really enjoyed it,” Martin said. “I had to do some convincing with my mom about passing up a Stanford education. But looking back, things have gone really well.”
Sitake Applauds His Assistants For Landing LJ Martin
BYU head coach Kalani Sitake recalls Martin’s recruitment journey but insists the credit belongs elsewhere.
“That was Harvey Unga, A-Rod (OC Aaron Roderick), and Fes (Fesi Sitake),” said the coach in his tenth season.
Although Martin gave Stanford an early commitment, Shaw’s departure allowed Sitake’s staff to reestablish contact and build momentum.
“When we had the chance to keep recruiting him, it was clear he matched what we wanted on and off the field,” Sitake said. “When he came out with his family, they loved the atmosphere, the academics, and the social environment that fit him perfectly.”
Since arriving in 2023, Sitake has spoken highly of Martin’s role in the program.
“Feels like yesterday he was a freshman,” Sitake reflected. “Now he’s a leader. Time goes by so fast, but I’m grateful he’s part of this team and serving as one of our captains.”
