No. 1 National Prospect AJ Dybantsa Commits to BYU, Signaling Power Shift in College Basketball
No. 1 National Prospect AJ Dybantsa Commits to BYU, Signaling Power Shift in College Basketball
Provo, Utah — May 24, 2025
In a move sending shockwaves through the college basketball landscape, the BYU Cougars have secured a commitment from AJ Dybantsa, the No. 1-ranked American 5-star high school recruit and widely regarded as the top prospect in the 2025 class.
The 6-foot-8 small forward from California’s Prolific Prep had been pursued by every blue-blood program in the country — including Duke, Kentucky, Kansas, and Michigan State — but in a stunning twist, Dybantsa chose Brigham Young University, a program historically absent from the elite recruiting wars.
“I felt the love from BYU from the very beginning,” Dybantsa said during a nationally televised commitment announcement. “Coach Pope and his staff made me feel like more than just a player — they made me feel like family. I believe in what they’re building, and I want to be a part of something that shocks the world.”
A Program-Changing Commitment
The commitment is easily the most significant in BYU men’s basketball history. Dybantsa, a dynamic scorer with elite athleticism, court vision, and defensive tenacity, has drawn comparisons to NBA stars like Jayson Tatum and Brandon Ingram. ESPN, 247Sports, and Rivals unanimously rank him as the top player in the nation.
For BYU, this moment signifies a seismic shift in the program’s trajectory. Head coach Mark Pope, now entering his sixth season, has long preached a vision of elevating BYU into a national powerhouse. This commitment gives that vision newfound credibility.
“This is a day that changes everything,” Coach Pope said during a press conference in Provo. “AJ Dybantsa is not only an elite basketball talent — he’s an elite human being. His commitment tells the country that BYU is not just in the conversation — we’re leading it.”
Why BYU?
For months, insiders believed Dybantsa’s decision would come down to perennial NCAA contenders like Duke or USC, given their exposure and proximity to his home state. However, sources close to Dybantsa cited BYU’s unique combination of faith-based culture, academic reputation, and growing basketball momentum as critical factors.
BYU’s recent success in the Big 12 — including a Sweet Sixteen run and a top-15 national ranking — also played a pivotal role. “Winning matters,” said Dybantsa’s AAU coach, Rick Brewer. “AJ didn’t just want hype. He wanted a place where he could win, develop, and stay grounded. BYU checked all those boxes.”
Another overlooked element was BYU’s NIL program. Though BYU isn’t often seen as a major NIL player, several sources confirmed that the Cougars quietly assembled a competitive package in compliance with NCAA regulations, with strong local business backing and mentorship opportunities that aligned with Dybantsa’s long-term goals.
Impact on the Court
Dybantsa is expected to start from day one and instantly transform the Cougars into a national title contender. His commitment also elevates BYU’s 2025 recruiting class into the top five nationally — a previously unthinkable achievement for the program.
More importantly, Dybantsa’s decision could open the floodgates for future elite recruits to consider BYU. Already, rumors are swirling that several top-50 prospects — including 5-star guard Jermaine Lewis and 4-star center Kaden Isaacs — are giving BYU a second look.
“Landing AJ is like flipping a switch,” said college basketball analyst Jon Rothstein. “BYU just became one of the most intriguing programs in the country overnight.”
A Cultural Fit and a New Era
For Dybantsa, BYU’s culture was more than a footnote — it was central. As a player known for his poise, humility, and leadership, he found a match in BYU’s values-driven approach. During his official visit, Dybantsa met with university leaders, participated in community outreach, and even attended a devotional with fellow students.
“I saw a place where I could grow as a man, not just a basketball player,” Dybantsa said. “It felt different — in a good way.”
His parents echoed that sentiment. “This isn’t just a basketball decision,” said his mother, Diane Dybantsa. “This is about the kind of person AJ wants to be, and BYU gives him that foundation.”
The Nation Reacts
Social media exploded with reactions from players, fans, and analysts alike. Within minutes of Dybantsa’s announcement, “BYU” was trending nationwide. NBA stars like Donovan Mitchell and Jimmer Fredette chimed in with messages of support and astonishment.
Even rival coaches took notice. “We all tip our hat to BYU today,” said Kansas head coach Bill Self. “They just changed the recruiting game.”
Looking Ahead
Dybantsa will join BYU in the summer of 2025, with expectations sky-high and the spotlight firmly on Provo. For a program that has often played the role of underdog, today marks a defining moment — not just in recruiting but in its national perception.
“This is just the beginning,” Coach Pope said, eyes gleaming with excitement. “We’re not done. We’re just getting started.”
As the Cougars prepare to enter a new era, one thing is clear: the future of BYU basketball is brighter than ever, and AJ Dybantsa is the face of that revolution.
