BYU Players Dybantsa and Saunders Recognized on Oscar Robertson Trophy List

PROVO, Utah — BYU basketball players AJ Dybantsa and Richie Saunders have been named to the Oscar Robertson Trophy Preseason Watch List, highlighting their skills as contenders for the nation’s top men’s college basketball player.

The United States Basketball Writers Association (USBWA) has been awarding the Oscar Robertson Trophy since the 1958-59 season. Named after basketball legend Oscar Robertson, it honors the best players in men’s college basketball. The 2025-26 season marks the release of this prestigious list, with USBWA President Matt Norlander explaining, “Our list is stacked with proven talent, returning All-Americans and glitzy freshmen.”

Dybantsa made an impressive debut in BYU’s season opener against Villanova, scoring 21 points and becoming the fifth freshman in program history to achieve such a feat in his first collegiate game. His contributions led to a 71-66 victory for BYU at the Hall of Fame Series in Las Vegas.

In addition to Dybantsa’s debut, senior Richie Saunders continues to excel, scoring 15 points and reaching double figures in 13 consecutive games. His performance continues to build as he extends his free throw streak to 29 straight, demonstrating his consistency on the court.

The Cougars will next face Holy Cross on Saturday, November 8, at the Marriott Center. The game is set for 7 p.m. and will be broadcast on ESPN.