A.J. Dybantsa, the top high school basketball recruit in the United States and a projected No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, has committed to play college basketball at Brigham Young University (BYU). This decision marks a significant moment in college basketball, as Dybantsa chose BYU over traditional basketball powerhouses such as Duke, Tennessee, and Georgia.
Dybantsa’s commitment to BYU is influenced by several factors. A major consideration was the substantial Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal reportedly valued between $5 million and $7 million. This deal is considered unprecedented in college basketball recruiting and underscores the growing impact of NIL opportunities on athletes’ decisions. Additionally, Dybantsa was drawn to BYU’s newly appointed head coach, Kevin Young, who brings a wealth of NBA experience to the program. Coach Young’s background includes assistant coaching positions with the Philadelphia 76ers and the Phoenix Suns, where he worked with NBA stars like Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. Dybantsa expressed confidence that Coach Young’s expertise would provide the best development for his professional aspirations.
Standing at 6-foot-9, Dybantsa is known for his exceptional athleticism, scoring ability, and defensive prowess. He has been a standout performer on the Nike EYBL circuit and has represented Team USA at various youth levels. His decision to reclassify to the 2025 class makes him eligible for the 2026 NBA Draft, where he is projected to be a top pick.
Dybantsa’s commitment to BYU is a significant coup for the program, which has not had an NBA draft pick since Jimmer Fredette in 2011. The addition of Dybantsa, along with other top recruits like Egor Demin, Xavion Staton, and Chamberlain Burgess, positions BYU to make a substantial impact in the Big 12 Conference and on the national stage.
This development also highlights the evolving dynamics of college basketball recruiting, where financial incentives and coaching expertise are playing an increasingly pivotal role in athletes’ decisions. Dybantsa’s choice to commit to BYU over traditional basketball powerhouses signifies a shift in the recruiting landscape, with programs like BYU emerging as formidable contenders in attracting top-tier talent.
In summary, A.J. Dybantsa’s commitment to BYU represents a landmark moment in college basketball recruiting. It underscores the growing influence of NIL deals and coaching experience in shaping athletes’ decisions and signals a potential shift in the balance of power among college basketball programs.
