UPDATE: BYU basketball star Kennard Davis Jr. has been arrested on suspicion of DUI following a crash in Provo, Utah, just days before a highly anticipated game against No. 3 UConn. The incident occurred on December 1, 2023, and has sent shockwaves through the Cougars’ program as they prepare for one of the biggest matchups of the season.
The Provo police confirmed that Davis, a 6-foot-6 transfer from Southern Illinois, was taken into custody after the accident. He has been charged with driving under the influence and treated for “minor” injuries. His vehicle has been impounded. Authorities reported that the other party involved in the crash did not require hospitalization.
Local police spokesperson Janna-Lee Holland stated, “The other party did not suffer any injuries that required them to be transported to a local hospital.” This arrest comes at a critical time for BYU, as they gear up for their game against UConn on December 3, 2023, with national attention focused on the No. 7 Cougars.
Davis, who is averaging 9.0 points per game this season, did not participate in BYU’s recent 85-68 victory over Delaware due to a leg injury. However, BYU head coach Kevin Young expressed optimism about Davis’s recovery, stating, “I think he’s fine moving forward.” Coach Young emphasized Davis’s importance to the team, noting his defensive skills and toughness.
The implications of this arrest extend beyond the basketball court. BYU’s strict honor code, which mandates students to abstain from alcohol and other substances, puts Davis’s future at the university in jeopardy. Violating these rules can result in severe penalties, including potential dismissal. The school stated, “We are aware of the allegations and looking into the situation.”
As fans await more details, the community is left to ponder the impact of this incident on both Davis’s career and the upcoming game against UConn. Star player AJ Dybantsa, a Boston native and projected No. 1 pick in the next summer’s NBA draft, will also be a focal point in this high-stakes contest.
The situation continues to develop, and the repercussions of this incident will likely be felt throughout the program and its supporters. As BYU prepares for this pivotal game, all eyes will be on whether Davis will face further disciplinary actions and how his absence, if necessary, could affect the team’s performance against a formidable opponent.
