BYU Freshman AJ Dybantsa Responds After High School Star Owns Him in Half-Court Duel
AJ Dybantsa, the nation’s top-ranked basketball recruit and future BYU star, found himself on the wrong end of a highlight reel after former teammate Tyran Stokes delivered a devastating dunk during a recent half-court showdown.
The playful moment between two of basketball’s elite prospects went viral after Dybantsa posted his stunned reaction on social media, showcasing the competitive spirit and camaraderie that have made both players household names in basketball circles.AJ Dybantsa Goes Head-to-Head With HS Teammate in Viral Clip
The House of Basketball provided the backdrop for this entertaining spectacle, where 2026 five-star shooting forward Tyran Stokes, the top recruit in the class, according to 247 Sports, and Dybantsa, a future star at BYU, squared off in a one-on-one battle that highlighted their exceptional talents.
The pivotal moment came when Stokes, holding possession, executed a crafty hesitation move before throwing down a thunderous dunk that left Dybantsa running away in mock defeat.Dybantsa’s Instagram story response captured his genuine disbelief, writing, “Dawg wth,” perfectly encapsulating the surprise of being outmaneuvered by his longtime friend and rival.This interaction exemplifies the brotherhood forged during their time as teammates at Prolific Prep in California, where they formed one of the most formidable duos in high school basketball history.Before Dybantsa even sets foot on BYU’s campus, his impact on college basketball has already been felt nationwide. The 6’9″, 210-pound wing from Brockton, Massachusetts, stands as the consensus No. 1 player in the 2025 recruiting class and is widely projected already as the top overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.
His freshman season at Saint Sebastian’s School produced remarkable statistics that only hint at his complete skill set. Averaging 19.1 points, 9.6 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 2.5 blocks per game, Dybantsa earned Massachusetts Gatorade Player of the Year honors while displaying the versatility that has scouts comparing him to NBA superstars.