In a groundbreaking decision, AJ Dybantsa, the standout player for Utah Prep and a projected No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, announced his commitment to BYU this morning on ESPN. Dybantsa chose the Cougars over basketball powerhouses Alabama, North Carolina, and Kansas, citing a desire for a family-oriented program with NBA-experienced coaching.
“I was looking for a program that felt like home,” Dybantsa said during his announcement. “BYU’s coaching staff has the NBA experience I need to grow as a player, and the atmosphere here is unmatched.”
Head coach Kevin Young, formerly with the Phoenix Suns and Philadelphia 76ers, and his NBA-experienced staff were pivotal in Dybantsa’s decision. Young’s reputation for player development and the program’s vision resonated deeply with the Massachusetts native.
BYU’s official NIL collective, The Royal Blue, celebrated the news with an enthusiastic statement:
“We are thrilled about AJ Dybantsa committing to the BYU basketball program! During his decision-making process, he sought a family-oriented environment, a coach who would develop him, and a program that could win. He’s found all that in BYU. Something special is happening here, and we are excited to be part of it.”
The collective also highlighted their ongoing efforts to support student-athletes, noting contributions from 875 donors across 30 states and major gifts from 32 alumni. “The entrepreneurial DNA of Cougar Nation is unrivaled,” the statement added, emphasizing BYU’s unique NIL ecosystem.
A Shocking Turn of Events
Dybantsa’s decision to join BYU stunned many in the basketball world. For months, analysts speculated that he might choose a traditional basketball powerhouse like North Carolina or Kansas, or a current title contender like Alabama. However, BYU’s strong push, combined with its unique values and developmental opportunities, proved decisive.
This commitment boosts BYU’s 2025 recruiting class to No. 11 in the 247Sports rankings, marking a major achievement for a program not traditionally known as a recruiting powerhouse.
What This Means for BYU
Dybantsa’s arrival signals a turning point for BYU basketball as the program continues to rise in prominence. His commitment not only elevates the team’s potential for the upcoming seasons but also shines a spotlight on BYU as a viable destination for elite talent.
With Dybantsa on the roster, BYU fans and college basketball enthusiasts alike can look forward to an exciting new chapter for the Cougars. The program, bolstered by the support of The Royal Blue and a dedicated coaching staff, is poised to make waves on the national stage.
