In a move that sent shockwaves through the college basketball landscape, AJ Dybantsa, the nation’s top-ranked recruit in the 2025 class, announced his commitment to BYU on ESPN’s First Take on December 10, 2024. Choosing the Cougars over traditional powerhouses like Kansas, North Carolina, and Alabama, Dybantsa’s decision marked a historic moment for BYU basketball, as he became the program’s first-ever five-star recruit in the modern era.
Dybantsa, a 6-foot-9 wing from Brockton, Massachusetts, is widely projected to be the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. His commitment to BYU was influenced by several factors, including the hiring of head coach Kevin Young, who brought NBA experience from his time with the Phoenix Suns and Philadelphia 76ers. Young’s background in developing professional talent resonated with Dybantsa, who cited the coach’s work with stars like Kevin Durant and Devin Booker as a significant draw.
Additionally, Dybantsa’s decision was bolstered by a record-setting Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal reportedly valued between $5 million and $7 million, underscoring the evolving landscape of college athletics and BYU’s commitment to competing at the highest levels.
Since his commitment, Dybantsa has continued to elevate BYU’s profile on the national and international stages. His appearance at the Monaco Grand Prix wearing BYU gear, as part of his endorsement with Red Bull, showcased the program to a global audience. Moreover, his influence has been instrumental in securing high-profile non-conference matchups for BYU, including games against UConn and Wisconsin, further signaling the program’s rising prominence.
Dybantsa’s commitment represents a transformative moment for BYU basketball, signaling a new era of competitiveness and ambition for the program. 
