AJ Dybantsa delivered a huge performance in a losing effort as BYU’s NCAA tournament run ended Thursday with an upset loss to No. 11 Texas.
The forward scored 35 of his team’s 71 points, reinforcing his status as one of the top prospects in the upcoming draft.
According to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, Dybantsa may have been the frontrunner for the No. 1 overall pick entering the week.
That outlook has been influenced by health concerns surrounding Kansas guard Darryn Peterson and some skepticism about whether Cameron Boozer’s athletic profile will translate to a higher ceiling at the NBA level.
Still, Fischer emphasizes that Peterson and Boozer remain firmly in the top tier alongside Dybantsa, with no expectation of a significant drop for either player.
Some teams even view Boozer as a potential top choice for the Pacers if they land the No. 1 pick due to roster fit.
Meanwhile, UNC forward Caleb Wilson has gained momentum despite his season ending early due to hand and thumb injuries.
Fischer notes that Wilson has drawn comparisons to Chris Bosh and Evan Mobley, and his recent surgery is not expected to affect his standing as a likely top-five pick.
“I don’t think anyone is taking Wilson No. 1 overall,” one NBA general manager said. “But I think every team is going to have him above one of those other three guys.”
Draft Notes: Dybantsa, Boozer, Pacers, Wilson, Guards, More https://t.co/0pPfnKDQxd pic.twitter.com/IRY4MttjvS
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) March 20, 2026
