AJ Dybantsa, the No. 1 ranked prospect in the class of 2025, has committed to play for Brigham Young University next season. The announcement solidifies BYU’s position as an emerging basketball program under first-year head coach Kevin Young.
Standing 6-foot-9, Dybantsa is a highly skilled small forward playing his senior year at Utah Prep in Hurricane, Utah. He chose the Cougars over several prestigious programs, including Alabama, Kansas, and North Carolina.
“I was mostly stress-free throughout the whole process, but it feels good to have it verbally announced,” Dybantsa told 247Sports. He emphasized the NBA-level infrastructure at BYU, noting the staff’s expertise in analytics, nutrition, and player development as key factors in his decision.
Dybantsa’s journey has been marked by extraordinary achievements. Named the top player in the 2026 class by ESPN after his freshman year, he later reclassified to the 2025 class in October 2023. His meteoric rise has drawn attention from top college programs nationwide, with schools like Duke, Kentucky, and UConn vying for his commitment.
In July 2023, On3.com rated Dybantsa the best high school player in the country, regardless of class. His versatility, scoring ability, and defensive prowess have made him one of the most coveted prospects in recent years.
Dybantsa’s decision to join BYU signals a significant shift for the program as it aims to establish itself among college basketball’s elite. The Cougars, who recently joined the Big 12 Conference, have invested heavily in their basketball operations to attract top talent.
Coach Kevin Young, a former NBA assistant, is in his inaugural season leading the Cougars. Dybantsa’s arrival is expected to provide a major boost to the team, as BYU looks to compete against powerhouse programs in the Big 12.
For Dybantsa, the ultimate goal remains clear: reaching the NBA. BYU’s focus on individualized player development aligns with his aspirations. “It’s an up-and-coming program, and obviously my goal is to get to the NBA,” Dybantsa said.
