A.J. Dybantsa, widely regarded as the No. 1 college basketball recruit in the class of 2025, has made his decision to join BYU, creating a seismic shift in the college basketball landscape. The highly anticipated announcement was made on ESPN’s First Take on Tuesday, where the 6-foot-9 forward explained why he chose the Cougars over other powerhouse programs.
“A lot stood out on my visit,” Dybantsa said. “Coach Kevin Young played a major role in my decision. My ultimate goal is to make it to the NBA, and Coach Young has coached my all-time favorite player, Kevin Durant. He spoke highly of Durant and showed me what it takes to reach that level. When I visited BYU, I saw that the entire staff—from the head coach to the analytics team, even the dietician and strength coach—has NBA-level experience. That’s the type of environment I want to be in. If it’s all NBA, and I’m trying to get to the NBA, this is the best program to help me develop.”
Young, who became BYU’s head coach in April, brought extensive NBA experience from his time as an assistant with the Philadelphia 76ers and Phoenix Suns. His knowledge and connections have made an immediate impact, helping BYU land Dybantsa, the most high-profile recruit in the program’s history.
Dybantsa’s decision comes after a rigorous recruitment process. BYU emerged victorious over a final list that included Alabama, Kansas, and North Carolina—three programs with storied basketball traditions. All four schools recognized that Dybantsa is likely to be a one-and-done player, as he is projected to be a top pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. BYU’s ability to secure his commitment is a game-changer for a program that hasn’t produced an NBA draft pick since Jimmer Fredette went 10th overall in 2011.
For BYU, Dybantsa’s arrival is expected to bring a new level of attention and prestige to its basketball program. His unique skill set, size, and versatility make him a standout on the court. Currently ranked ahead of elite prospects like Cameron Boozer, a Duke commit and son of former NBA player Carlos Boozer, and Kansas commit Darryn Peterson, Dybantsa has been lauded as a generational talent.
“When Dybantsa is on the court, particularly in 5-on-5 action, it’s hard to focus on anyone else,” basketball analyst Krysten Peek wrote after observing him at a USA Basketball minicamp. “His 6-9 frame and long strides allow him to cover a lot of ground in a short time. He’s improved significantly off the ball, and his scoring ability creates better spacing for his teammates. He’s a player who can dominate in every aspect of the game.”
Dybantsa himself described his style of play as a combination of NBA legends Tracy McGrady and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, blending skill, finesse, and scoring prowess. His talent and drive have already earned him NIL deals with major brands like Nike and Red Bull, making him one of the most marketable high school athletes in the country.
Dybantsa’s journey to BYU has been one of growth and determination. He began his high school career at St. Sebastian’s in Massachusetts, where he was named the state’s player of the year. He later moved to Prolific Prep in Napa, California, before settling at Utah Prep Academy. There, he reclassified from the 2026 to the 2025 high school class, further solidifying his reputation as one of the most advanced players in the country.
BYU’s basketball program, which recently transitioned to the Big 12, has been looking for a way to establish itself among the nation’s elite teams. Dybantsa’s commitment provides a foundation for future success, as his presence will undoubtedly attract more attention from recruits, fans, and NBA scouts. His decision also signals a shift in how top prospects are evaluating their options, with many prioritizing development and NBA preparation over traditional powerhouse programs.
Dybantsa’s addition gives BYU a legitimate chance to contend at the national level, as the program looks to make a deep postseason run during his tenure. His commitment is not just about basketball—it’s a cultural moment for BYU, elevating its status in the increasingly competitive world of college sports.
As Dybantsa prepares to join the Cougars, the basketball world will be watching closely. His talent, combined with BYU’s NBA-ready infrastructure, could redefine what it means to prepare for the next level in college basketball.
