PROVO — Amber Whiting, head coach of BYU women's basketball, knows just how much talent lies hidden in Idaho, also known as the Gem State.

Before taking the reins at her alma mater, Whiting made significant strides in the Idaho basketball community, including steering Burley High to a historic 4A state championship in 2022, marking only the third time the school achieved this milestone. Her extensive coaching experience also includes national club coaching roles, collaborating with elite programs like the Natalie Williams Basketball Academy and Utah Hard Knock.

When Whiting assumed her position at BYU, her understanding of Idaho's unique talent pool was clear. Notably, she managed to recruit her own daughter, former four-star point guard Amari Whiting, who switched her commitment from Oregon to join the Cougars.

Fast forward to the present day: Whiting’s focus on Idaho is paying off handsomely.

In her third year at BYU, four members of the Cougars’ roster proudly hail from Idaho—this ranks second only to Utah’s five athletes. The import of Idaho talent is even more pronounced, with these players comprising a significant portion of the squad's action.

Among the ten players seeing court time early in the season, Amari Whiting leads as the starting point guard, sharing minutes with Canadian sensation Delaney Gibb. Freshman Brinley Cannon from Idaho is also making her mark with an impressive average of 5.4 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 1.5 steals in just 16 minutes of gameplay.

Cannon showcased her prowess during a pivotal game against McNeese State, where her offensive energy sparked a turnaround, netting 7 points during a crucial 7-0 scoring streak. This performance highlights the importance of homegrown talent in the Cougars’ strategy. Kambree Barber, a native of Rigby, Idaho, has also been a valuable asset, providing a season-high performance of 7 points alongside seven rebounds in just 17 minutes against the Cowgirls.

Coach Whiting confidently described Cannon and Barber as her 'secret weapons,' praising their ability to deliver both energy and skill on and off the court.

“They create mismatches with their length and athleticism. Both players excel in crashing the boards and bringing that defensive intensity,” Whiting explained.

Idaho’s reputation for producing hardworking athletes aligns perfectly with Whiting’s coaching philosophy. The region serves as a vital ground for developing Division I talent, and BYU’s connection with Idaho continues to be bolstered through fan support and athletic success. Recent games have seen substantial BYU fan presence in Idaho, illustrating the strong ties between the program and local communities.

Brinley Cannon, twice named Idaho 4A player of the year, articulated the unique spirit of Idaho basketball.

“We all play hard and emphasize a team-oriented style. That's what we’re trying to replicate here at BYU.”

In a recent game against Idaho State — attended by enthusiastic BYU fans from across the region — it was evident that the Cougars not only attract local talent but also cultivate a deep-rooted fanbase. Marya Hudgins, a junior wing from Colorado, remarked on the impressive fan turnout typical of BYU games in Idaho, emphasizing the program's strong following.

Whiting is dedicated to continuing her quest for fresh talent from Idaho.

Recognizing it not merely for its proximity but also for the hardworking ethos that defines these student-athletes. “These girls may not always be the most elite talent, but they are blue-collar fighters ready to put in the work,” she stated.

As BYU women's basketball continues to thrive on the contributions of Idaho athletes, the Gem State remains a significant source of pride and productivity for the program. This synergy between dedicated coaching and talented athletes is set to create a promising future for the Cougars as they aim for greater heights this season.