The number one player in the 2025 high school basketball class, AJ Dybantsa, appeared on ESPN’s First Take this morning and announced his commitment to Brigham Young University (BYU) in Utah.
The decision surprised many sports fans, but BYU head coach Kevin Young and his program have been front-runners for the 6’9” wing from Boston for months. This is a huge win for BYU, which also boasts 6’8” guard Egor Demin, widely regarded by NBA scouts as a top-five pick.
During the segment, AJ and his father discussed the decision with Stephen A. Smith, highlighting the developmental opportunities at BYU that set it apart from his other finalists—Kansas, North Carolina, and Alabama. Dybantsa ultimately chose to stay in Utah for one more year, where he currently plays for Utah Prep.
Widely projected as the top pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, his father emphasized that AJ is expected to be a one-and-done player. AJ also mentioned NBA teams like the San Antonio Spurs, Orlando Magic, and Phoenix Suns as his preferred destinations, noting his admiration for Kevin Durant, with whom he has trained in the past.
“Don’t give me KD as my vet,” Dybantsa joked with Smith, implying that working alongside Durant could elevate his game even further. Scouts believe Dybantsa has immense potential, particularly if he continues to refine his defense and off-ball effectiveness.
