Dybantsa’s Nod Signals Strength as Sebastian Wilkins Joins Duke’s Elite Recruiting Class
In a testament to the burgeoning interconnectedness of the basketball world and the power of peer influence, highly-touted prospect Sebastian Wilkins has committed to Jon Scheyer’s Duke Blue Devils, a decision seemingly bolstered by the visible support of the immensely talented AJ Dybantsa. Dybantsa, a player whose Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) valuation is reportedly in the multi-million dollar range, took to social media to commend Wilkins’ choice, sending a clear message about the caliber of player Duke is attracting.
Wilkins, a 6’8″ forward from Brewster Academy, recently reclassified to the 2025 class, making him an immediate impact addition for the upcoming season. His commitment further solidifies what was already a star-studded recruiting haul for Scheyer, featuring the highly-regarded Boozer twins, Cameron and Cayden, and Nik Khamenia. Wilkins’ versatility and defensive prowess are expected to be key assets for the Blue Devils, and his decision to reclassify speaks to his readiness for the collegiate level.
The public backing from Dybantsa, a top-tier prospect himself with a reported NIL valuation of $3.8 million (and even as high as $7 million in some reports due to a groundbreaking deal with BYU), carries significant weight in the fiercely competitive world of college basketball recruiting. While Dybantsa is committed to BYU, his endorsement of Wilkins’ choice to join Duke highlights the mutual respect and camaraderie among elite high school talents. It suggests that top players are not only looking at the traditional factors like coaching and program history, but also at the network and relationships they can build with fellow prospects.
For Duke, this commitment is more than just adding another talented player; it’s a statement. It underscores Jon Scheyer’s ability to attract and secure commitments from some of the nation’s most coveted prospects, even in an NIL-driven landscape. The collective talent and potential synergies within this 2025 class are generating considerable buzz, painting a promising picture for the future of Duke basketball. With Dybantsa’s public approval, Wilkins’ commitment adds another layer of intrigue and validates Duke’s standing as a premier destination for the game’s brightest young stars.
