AJ Dybantsa, Nation’s Top Basketball Recruit, Commits to BYU Under Coach Kevin Young

In a significant development for BYU men’s basketball, the nation’s top recruit, AJ Dybantsa, has committed to the program under the leadership of Coach Kevin Young. Dybantsa, a 6-foot-9 wing and consensus five-star recruit, announced his decision on ESPN‘s First Take, choosing BYU over finalists Alabama, Kansas, and North Carolina.

This commitment marks a historic milestone for the BYU basketball program. Dybantsa, who is projected to be the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, is the first consensus No. 1 overall recruit to commit to BYU men’s basketball. His decision has been hailed as a testament to Coach Young’s vision of transforming BYU into a hub for future NBA prospects.

Coach Kevin Young, who joined BYU seven months ago, has been instrumental in this recruitment. Young, a former associate head coach of the Phoenix Suns, brought a wealth of NBA experience and connections to the table. His staff, which includes former NBA and college basketball veterans like Chris Burgess, Brandon Dunson, Will Voigt, Tim Fanning, and John Linehan, played a crucial role in convincing Dybantsa of BYU’s potential.

Dybantsa’s commitment has significantly boosted BYU’s 2025 recruiting class rankings. According to national basketball analyst Travis Branham, BYU’s class ranking jumped from No. 34 to No. 11 nationally with Dybantsa’s pledge. This move also impacted the rankings of other schools, with Alabama rising from No. 11 to No. 2 and Kansas potentially moving to No. 1 if they had secured Dybantsa’s commitment.

The recruitment process involved extensive efforts from the BYU staff. Coaches Fanning and Voigt attended multiple league and tournament games to watch Dybantsa, while Dunson stayed behind to observe him at the 5 for the Fight National Hoopfest. Young’s personal connections, including endorsements from NBA stars like Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, were also key factors in securing Dybantsa’s commitment.

Dybantsa’s decision to join BYU is seen as a strategic move to prepare him for the NBA. Despite not being a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Dybantsa was attracted to BYU’s program due to its strong coaching staff and the opportunity to develop his skills in a competitive environment).