Latest news with #UtahPrep
Yahoo
09-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
AJ Dybantsa admits BYU wasn't top school, blown away by NBA ready program
AJ Dybantsa recently opened up in a recent interview about the unexpected journey that led him to commit to BYU, admitting that the Cougars were not originally on his top list. The star from Utah Prep revealed that it was actually his parents' idea to bring him home, a decision that eventually steered him away from elite programs and towards the unique opportunity presented by BYU. Advertisement Dybantsa shared that after considering his options, he found that the vision laid out by Kevin Young and the BYU coaching staff resonated with him, making the Cougars the only option he could embrace fully. Arriving in Provo just last week, the 6-foot-9 prospect has already made waves in the basketball world. His stunning performances in premier events—the McDonald's All-American Game, Nike Hoop Summit, and the Jordan Brand Classic—has set the tone as the nation's top-rated recruit in this year's class. Despite being courted by traditional powerhouses like North Carolina and Duke, Dybantsa found a deeper connection with BYU's program, recognizing its potential to provide him not only with competitive NBA-style program but also with a supportive environment to grow both on and off the court. Related: BYU Basketball players are turning heads for unexpected choice Dybantsa joins a group of talented teammates, including Robert Wright, Richie Saunders, Keba Keita, and Kennard Davis Jr., and becomes part of what many are calling one of the best starting five in BYU's storied history. His commitment marks a major chapter for the program as it continues to attract top-tier talent. Beyond the hardwood, Dybantsa is eager to establish his personal brand. He recently launched a YouTube channel and is planning to produce content throughout the season. This initiative reflects his desire to connect with fans and provide a behind-the-scenes look at his one-and-done collegiate journey. This also demonstrates that his ambitions extend well beyond his achievements on the court
Yahoo
08-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
No. 1 College Basketball Recruit AJ Dybantsa Turns Heads With New Post
AJ Dybantsa is considered the No. 1 recruit in the nation from the high school class of 2025. He spent this season at Utah Prep, and he will be heading to Brigham Young this fall to start his college basketball career. Scouts seem to think very highly of the 6-foot-9 forward, and many expect him to leave college after his freshman year to go into the NBA draft, where he's projected to be the first player chosen. Advertisement On his official Instagram account, he posted a video of himself working on his basketball skills, and fans across the land have taken notice. "Lead the way," one fan wrote. "Generational Talent Otw," another fan wrote. "so tuff #1," a third fan wrote. "Very proud of you lil bro," a fourth fan wrote. "Good luck ❤️," a fifth fan wrote. "Travel lol," a sixth fan wrote. Dybantsa has a wingspan of over seven feet, and he can score at all three levels, although his mid-range pull-up game is considered his biggest strength, according to a scouting report from 247Sports. The Massachusetts native is also thought to have plenty of potential to become an impact player on the defensive end as well. Team Oak Soldier's AJ Dybantsa (3) dunks the Boyd II-The Commercial Appeal / USA TODAY NETWORK Two years ago, Dybantsa represented the United States in the FIBA Under-16 Americas Championship in Mexico, and he helped the Stars and Stripes earn a gold medal. Advertisement This past season, BYU qualified for the NCAA Tournament as the sixth seed in the East region. It got to the Sweet Sixteen round, where it was blown out by Alabama, 113-88. Related: Dan Hurley's UConn Huskies Make Decision on Top Transfer Portal Player
