At the 2025 Jordan Brand Classic, basketball phenom AJ Dybantsa delivered not only an electrifying performance on the court but also a viral moment that lit up social media. During a dominant showing, Dybantsa capped off a highlight play with a celebration that instantly drew comparisons to NBA superstar Ja Morant. Channeling Morant’s signature swagger and flair, Dybantsa mimicked a grenade toss—an expressive gesture that symbolized his explosive style of play and bold personality.
The moment came after a fast break dunk that brought the crowd to its feet. As the gym buzzed with energy, Dybantsa walked toward midcourt, pantomimed pulling the pin on an invisible grenade, and tossed it into the crowd’s direction before ducking and covering his head—just like a soldier avoiding a blast. The crowd erupted, and cameras quickly captured the celebration, which went viral within minutes.
Basketball fans and analysts immediately began drawing parallels between Dybantsa and Ja Morant, not just because of the celebration but due to their shared athleticism, fearlessness, and charisma. Morant, known for his flashy play and unapologetic confidence, often uses expressive celebrations to punctuate big plays. Dybantsa’s gesture felt like a nod to that legacy—an acknowledgment of Morant’s influence on the next generation of stars.
This isn’t the first time Dybantsa has made waves in the high school and grassroots basketball scene. Widely considered one of the top prospects in the nation, the 6’8″ forward has consistently impressed scouts with his versatility, court vision, and scoring ability. But beyond the stats, what makes Dybantsa stand out is his commanding presence and confidence—a trait he shares with many current NBA stars.
His performance at the Jordan Brand Classic showcased his elite potential. From dynamic drives to lockdown defense, Dybantsa’s impact was felt on every possession. Yet, it was the grenade toss celebration that stole the spotlight, showing that the teenager isn’t afraid of the moment. In an era where brand, image, and flair matter just as much as performance, Dybantsa is already proving he knows how to capture both.
The celebration also sparked discussion about how modern basketball players use creativity and personality to connect with fans. In the age of social media, moments like this are gold. For Dybantsa, it wasn’t just about showboating—it was a statement. He’s not just here to play; he’s here to entertain, to inspire, and to lead.
As Dybantsa prepares for the next steps in his career—whether it’s college, the G League, or another pro route—fans and scouts alike will be watching closely. With a combination of elite talent, confidence, and marketability, he’s shaping up to be more than just a top prospect. He’s on track to be a cultural force in the game, much like Ja Morant has become.
The grenade toss may have lasted only a few seconds, but its impact will be felt for much longer. For AJ Dybantsa, it was more than a celebration—it was an announcement. The next star has arrived.
