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.

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.

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