In a surprising decision that captured the attention of the basketball community, A.J. Dybantsa, the top recruit in the class of 2025, announced his commitment to BYU over programs like Alabama, North Carolina, and Kansas.
A.J. Dybantsa, who is projected to be the number one pick in the 2026 NBA draft, has chosen to join the BYU Cougars. Despite being courted by powerhouse programs from Alabama to Kansas, Dybantsa’s commitment lacked the drama usually associated with high-profile recruiting. BYU emerged as a favorite in the summer, holding off competition from other top-ranked teams.
This decision makes Dybantsa the first five-star prospect to commit to BYU since the establishment of the ESPN recruiting database in 2007. With his commitment, BYU has risen to the top 10 in the 2025 recruiting class rankings. Dybantsa’s choice reflects a keen interest in BYU coach Kevin Young’s NBA experience, alongside the school’s competitive name, image, and likeness program that Dybantsa found appealing. Young, with a history of working alongside NBA stars like Kevin Durant and Devin Booker, made Dybantsa a priority from the start of his tenure at BYU.
The challenge now lies in Coach Young’s ability to build a competitive team around Dybantsa. With the departure of four seniors and possible NBA drafts from Egor Demin and Kanon Catchings, Young aims to leverage recruits like top-50 player Xavion Staton to ensure BYU’s competitive edge. Returning players such as Richie Saunders, Dallin Hall, and Keba Keita are expected to support Dybantsa on the court.
Dybantsa’s arrival at BYU plays well with the team’s five-out offense. His development as a player has shown increasing versatility, meshing well with BYU’s strategy. His capabilities in both the open court and half-court settings make him a valuable asset. His skill set includes strong defense, superb footwork, and creative finishes, traits coveted by NBA teams across the board.
Overall, Dybantsa’s commitment offers BYU a potential pathway to national prominence. Nevertheless, Dybantsa’s consistent performance and adaptability in games will be critical for maintaining his standing as a future top NBA pick.
Rival teams Alabama and North Carolina, who were also in the race for Dybantsa, face their own recruiting challenges following his decision. Alabama must contend with the loss of key players and focus on securing top recruit targets. North Carolina also seeks to fill its roster gaps, emphasizing the recruitment of elite forward prospects to strengthen their team.
Dybantsa’s decision to join BYU marks a significant moment for the team and highlights the strategic efforts by Coach Young to attract top talent. As Dybantsa prepares for what is anticipated to be a standout season, his performance not only promises to elevate BYU’s status but also sets the stage for his own future in the professional basketball arena. His journey at BYU will be closely watched as he takes significant strides towards becoming a formidable force in basketball.
