College basketball fans often marvel at the young, up-and-coming stars who burst onto the scene every March. This year, however, one of the most fascinating storylines is the presence of a BYU player who is five months older than NBA superstar Luka Doncic. While it’s not unheard of for a college athlete to be older than their professional counterparts, the age gap with a globally recognized NBA All-Star has certainly captured widespread attention.
A Unique Journey to the Hardwood
Unlike many Division I athletes who arrive on campus fresh out of high school, BYU players often take alternate paths. For some, that includes religious missions, redshirt years, or transfers that extend their collegiate careers well beyond the typical four-year window. In this particular case, the BYU standout (sporting the No. 21 jersey) took a longer route to the national spotlight—one that ultimately made him the oldest player in this year’s NCAA Tournament.
While the specifics of his journey vary from those of his teammates, the result is the same: an experienced, battle-tested athlete who brings leadership and a mature perspective to a relatively young roster. In a tournament where nerves and pressure run high, having a steadying presence can be the difference between an early exit and a Cinderella run.
Why Age Matters in March Madness
Age can be a double-edged sword in college basketball. On one hand, older players may have a physical and mental advantage, especially when it comes to coping with high-pressure situations and navigating the rigors of tournament play. On the other hand, professional scouts often place a premium on younger prospects with room for growth, leaving older players—no matter how talented—facing questions about their upside.
For the BYU veteran, however, the journey is less about future draft boards and more about maximizing this rare opportunity on the biggest stage of college hoops. His advanced skill set, leadership qualities, and wealth of life experience give him an edge in orchestrating an efficient offense and weathering hostile crowds in the high-stakes environment of March.
Comparisons with Luka Doncic
Luka Doncic has been in the global basketball spotlight since his mid-teens—dominating in Europe’s top leagues before taking the NBA by storm as a teenager. That a college athlete is five months older than the Dallas Mavericks’ franchise player speaks volumes about the varied timelines in sports.
Yet, it’s a testament to how many roads can lead to basketball success. While Doncic has been piling up triple-doubles and All-NBA honors, the BYU star has been honing his craft in college arenas—sometimes far from the spotlight but building a foundation that might still open professional doors down the line.
A Potential X-Factor in the Tournament
In the one-and-done format of March Madness, experience can be the ultimate trump card. Opponents may overlook an older college player, but come crunch time, that seasoned composure might tilt the balance. The BYU standout’s ability to read the game, manage possessions, and make quick decisions under pressure can prove invaluable.
And while the headlines about being “older than Luka” draw a chuckle or two, the real story is the leadership and poise he brings to the court. Whether BYU makes a deep run or not, he’s already etched his name into tournament lore by becoming one of the most talked-about players this season.
Looking Ahead
As the NCAA Tournament progresses, all eyes will be on this unique BYU veteran—scrutinizing his every move, celebrating his success, and, of course, drawing parallels to Luka Doncic’s youthful stardom. Whether this journey ends in a Cinderella story or an early exit, his legacy as the oldest player in March Madness—and the intriguing comparisons it invites—will remain a highlight of this year’s tournament.
For fans, coaches, and NBA scouts alike, his story is a reminder that every athlete’s path is different. Sometimes, taking the road less traveled can lead to an unforgettable chapter in college basketball history.
