The wait is nearly over for fans and college basketball programs eager to see where AJ Dybantsa, one of the most coveted high school basketball players in the nation, will take his talents next. Tomorrow morning at 10:30 AM EST, Dybantsa will reveal his choice live on ESPN’s First Take alongside host Stephen A. Smith.
Hailing from Brockton, Massachusetts, the 6’9”, 210-pound phenom is known for his versatility, sharp shooting, and defensive prowess, bolstered by a remarkable 7-foot wingspan. Currently playing for Utah Prep in Hurricane, Utah, Dybantsa has narrowed his college choices to Alabama, North Carolina, BYU, and Kansas.
A Storied High School Journey
Dybantsa began his rise to prominence playing for powerhouse Prolific Prep in Napa Valley, California. Last season, under the guidance of Coach Ryan Bernardi, he led the team to a Grind Session championship alongside 5-star sophomore and USA Basketball teammate Tyran Stokes. The duo also boasts two gold medals together from international competitions with the USA National Team.
After the Grind Session title, Dybantsa made a surprising transfer to Utah Prep, a program located near the breathtaking Zion National Park. Joining forces with fellow USA National Team member JJ Mandaquit, Dybantsa has continued to impress with his high-flying dunks, unguardable shooting, and relentless defense.
College Choices: A Star-Studded Field
Dybantsa’s final decision will undoubtedly send shockwaves through college basketball. Here’s a look at the four programs vying for his commitment:
- Alabama: Joining the Crimson Tide would reunite Dybantsa with former Prolific Prep teammates Derrion Reid and Aden Sherrell under Coach Nate Oats’ leadership.
- North Carolina: A storied program with a legacy of producing NBA talent and a system that could perfectly showcase Dybantsa’s skills.
- Kansas: If he chooses the Jayhawks, Dybantsa will team up with another Prolific Prep standout, Darryn Peterson, creating a potential powerhouse duo under Coach Bill Self.
- BYU: The Cougars have reportedly made an unprecedented offer between $7-9 million in NIL deals for Dybantsa’s one-year stint before he declares for the NBA draft.
The Road to the NBA
Dybantsa is widely expected to be the #1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, cementing his place as one of the Grind Session’s most accomplished alumni. His résumé already includes being the leading scorer at the 2023 Peach Jam as an underclassman and likely spots in the McDonald’s All-American Game and the Nike Hoops Summit this season.
With 61 Grind Session alumni currently on NBA rosters, Dybantsa’s journey is a testament to the elite talent cultivated in this prestigious winter circuit. His decision tomorrow will not only shape the next chapter of his basketball career but also leave a lasting legacy on the Grind Session’s rich history.
Be sure to tune in to First Take tomorrow to witness this monumental moment. AJ Dybantsa’s journey from high school to the NBA is one for the history books, and it all continues with his long-awaited announcement.
