Oklahoma State has been fined $50,000 by the Big 12 after derogatory chants from fans were directed at the school’s opponent, BYU, during their basketball matchup in Stillwater this past week.
“In accordance with the Big 12 Conference Principles and Standards of Sportsmanship, the Conference has issued Oklahoma State University a $50,000 fine following its investigation into inappropriate chants which referenced the Mormon religion that occurred during Wednesday’s men’s basketball game,” the conference said in a statement Sunday. “The Big 12 Conference will not tolerate any behavior that targets or demeans others.”
The fine comes as a result of the Big 12’s investigation of the chants, which took place during Oklahoma State’s upset victory over No. 16 BYU.
“It was determined that a derogatory chant followed a disputed call and referenced the Mormon faith in relation to game officials,” Oklahoma State said in a statement. “The reference to religion did not meet our standards and expectations. Oklahoma State respects the Big 12’s decision and will not appeal the fine.
“The Cowboy Code calls us to treat others with respect and dignity. Oklahoma State University values the relationship we have with BYU and deeply respects its community and faith. We will continue to work to ensure that the atmosphere at our events reflects the values of the Cowboy family.”
BYU coach Kevin Young ended his postgame press conference at Oklahoma State by sharing his disappointment for the chants that took place at the game.
“There were some ‘F the Mormons’ chants tonight by the student section that I heard,” Young told reporters. “You know, it’s a great win for Oklahoma State University, their fans should be proud. But it would be great if, you know, some class was (shown) in there as well.
“You know, I got four small kids at home. You know, I’m a Mormon. When I go home, they’re going to ask me about (the chants) the same way they asked me about it last year at Arizona.”
This past September, Colorado received a $50,000 fine of its own from the Big 12 after similar chants took place during the Buffaloes’ football game against BYU in Boulder.
In addition to Oklahoma State and Colorado, derogatory chants against BYU have taken place during various athletic events at a number of other schools across the country in recent years, with USC (2021), Oregon (2022), Providence (2024) and Cincinnati (2025) among those issuing apologies for such behavior.