Delaney Gibb Kept Christ Bigger Than Basketball

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In a sports world that often revolves around pressure, preparation, and performance, BYU women’s basketball star Delaney Gibb reminded people everywhere that there are still things more important than the game.

During BYU’s recent run to the WBIT championship game, the team made headlines for choosing not to practice on Sunday before its semifinal matchup against Kansas. For many, that decision seemed unusual. For Gibb, it was simple.

She explained that Sunday was a day to step away from the demands of basketball and refocus on something greater: Jesus Christ.

Gibb shared that being at BYU gives her the opportunity to represent more than herself. She said it is special to be part of a university where she can honor her faith, take Sundays as a day of worship, and re-center her life on Christ. Her comments quickly went viral, drawing millions of views and sparking conversations far beyond basketball.

But what made her words so powerful was not just that they were bold — it was that they were grounded.

Instead of seeing the missed practice as a disadvantage, Gibb saw it as an opportunity. She said there are things bigger than basketball, and faith in Jesus Christ is one of them. In a culture that constantly pushes athletes to give everything to the sport, she pointed to the value of pausing, worshiping, and remembering where true identity is found.

Her teammate Brinley Cannon echoed that same heart, saying the Sabbath is a time to rest, reflect, and recenter life on Jesus Christ. And BYU head coach Lee Cummard praised the maturity of his players, emphasizing that their program values faith and gives space for athletes of different beliefs to reflect and worship.

What stands out most is this: the team honored that conviction, and then stepped onto the court the next day and won. Gibb finished the game with 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists, helping lead BYU to the first national postseason championship game in program history.

This story is not just about skipping a practice.

It is about a young athlete using her platform to say what many are afraid to say out loud: Jesus is bigger than success, preparation, pressure, and even basketball itself.

Delaney Gibb’s story is a reminder that faith does not have to stay hidden on the sidelines. It can be lived openly, spoken boldly, and carried faithfully — even in the middle of competition.

Because at the end of the day, wins fade, seasons end, and headlines move on.

But a life centered on Christ stands firm.