AJ Dybantsa, the top-ranked high school prospect, shared his NBA aspirations in a recent appearance on “Podcast P with Paul George” Presented by Wave Sports + Entertainment. Speaking with George, Dybantsa was clear that his ultimate goal is reaching the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, an ambition he described as a “certified” milestone for any player.
Discussing his outlook on joining the league, Dybantsa said, “Hall of Fame is my only goal. Once you’re a Hall of Famer, you’re certified.” The 17-year-old forward emphasized the significance of this achievement in solidifying a player’s legacy, expressing his drive to make a name that endures long beyond his final game.
Dybantsa’s confidence is matched by his track record. After a stellar freshman season at Saint Sebastian’s School in Massachusetts, he was named the Massachusetts Boys’ Basketball Gatorade Player of the Year. He averaged 19.1 points, 9.6 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 2.5 blocks, leading his team to the NEPSAC Class A championship game, where they narrowly missed out on the title in a 77–76 loss to Milton Academy.
His next move took him across the country to Prolific Prep in Napa, California, where he joined forces with fellow elite prospect Tyran Stokes. Dybantsa’s performance in the Nike Peach Jam with Expressions Elite underscored his potential as he averaged 25.8 points per game, topping the event’s scoring charts. In October, he reclassified to the 2025 class, accelerating his path to the NBA and allowing for an earlier entry to the draft.
Currently, Dybantsa is playing his senior season with Utah Prep, where he has reunited with JJ Mandaquit, another top player who shares his goal of reaching the NBA. This partnership is poised to strengthen Utah Prep’s standing as they enter a highly competitive season. The move has been widely watched in recruiting circles, as Dybantsa’s reputation continues to grow.
At the international level, Dybantsa showcased his skills at the FIBA U-16 Americas Championship in Mexico, where he averaged 13.8 points per game and helped Team USA secure the gold medal with 12 points in the final game. His performance bolstered his status as one of the top young prospects in American basketball, drawing offers from major college programs such as Duke, Kentucky, and North Carolina.
In his conversation with George, Dybantsa also expressed a readiness to embrace the challenge of becoming the number one NBA draft pick. When asked if he considers himself worthy of that top selection, he responded, “Yeah, I bet on myself.”
Dybantsa’s ascent has generated significant interest from recruiters, who see in him the qualities necessary for a successful NBA career. Beyond his skills, his commitment to constant improvement and his focus on long-term goals align with the mindset of other elite players. He is frequently compared to top draft prospects, including Cooper Flagg and Ace Bailey, further heightening expectations around his future.
