While he was in Salt Lake City to play an NBA basketball game against the Utah Jazz on Jan. 30, Brooklyn Nets guard and former BYU basketball star Egor Dëmin met with Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

In a social media post on Feb. 5, Dëmin shared a photo of himself standing with Elder and Sister Melanie Rasband and wrote, “Very honored to meet Elder and Sister Rasband last weekend.” He also thanked Travis Hansen, BYU’s senior associate athletic director, for arranging the meeting.

In response, Elder Rasband wrote: “It was so nice to meet with you. Melanie and I wish you success in all your endeavors.”

Hansen is a close friend and mentor of Dëmin, who played at BYU during the 2024–2025 season before he was selected 8th overall by the Brooklyn Nets in the 2025 NBA Draft. Although not a member of the Church, Dëmin has said he believes in God and had a faith-strengthening experience while at BYU, according to a Deseret News interview.

Visit the Church News to learn more about the interaction.

More articles for you:
▶ What I realized about God and garments from studying the Creation
▶ Pres. Oaks explains the ‘enormous significance’ of believing in a literal resurrection
▶ We all feel inadequate. Pres. Freeman teaches what Christ would have us do next

A reminder of His love

This awe-inspiring cultured marble Christus statue depicts Jesus Christ just as the scriptures describe Him, beckoning to us with open arms, as if saying, “Come unto me.” Available in 3”—perfect for a ministering gift, missionary care package, or display in your home.

More