BYU’s AJ Dybantsa Shocks Fans with Insane Dunk, Sparks NBA Buzz

UPDATE: In a stunning display of athleticism, AJ Dybantsa, the top-ranked recruit in the 2025 class, wowed basketball fans during a recent practice with the BYU Cougars in Provo, Utah. The five-star wing executed a jaw-dropping dunk that left head coach Kevin Young in awe, marking a pivotal moment for the Cougars as they gear up for the upcoming season.

Dybantsa’s electrifying performance comes at a time when anticipation is building for his debut at BYU, a program that has not reached the Final Four and has not produced an NBA player in over 15 years. “He had a dunk last week and it was insane,” Young exclaimed. “When he does that in the Marriott Center, we might have to stop the game.”

This excitement is not just about a single dunk; it reflects Dybantsa’s commitment to taking BYU to new heights. After a visit to BYU in October 2024, he felt a connection that changed his recruitment trajectory. “It felt like home,” Dybantsa said. Thousands of fans chanting “We want AJ!” during a BYU football game solidified his decision to join the Cougars over traditional powerhouses like North Carolina and Kansas.

The financial aspect of his choice is reported to be significant, with a high-seven-figure payment on the table. However, Dybantsa insists that his primary motivation is to refine his skills and prepare for the 2026 NBA draft. “My main goal is to go to the NBA, and I wanted the closest thing to an NBA playing style,” he explained.

Dybantsa’s arrival is expected to elevate BYU’s basketball program, potentially recreating the magic that Jimmer Fredette brought to the school nearly 15 years ago. With a strong freshman class and the goal of reaching the national championship, Dybantsa has set his sights high. “We’re hoping to get to the Final Four… and then play in the national championship game,” he declared.

Young’s coaching philosophy, which mimics NBA systems, is a significant draw for Dybantsa. The Cougars employ advanced analytics, led by Akash Sebastian, who tracks players’ performance down to minute details. Dybantsa appreciates this approach, stating, “Higher percentage shots win, and the more games we’re going to win.”

Dybantsa’s physical prowess is also noteworthy. With a vertical leap of over 40.5 inches and impressive strength metrics, he has the potential to excel at the next level. Michael Davie, BYU’s strength coach, emphasized Dybantsa’s rare combination of strength and agility, comparing him to elite NBA athletes.

Off the court, Dybantsa navigates the attention that comes with being a top prospect. He often rides his bike to class, blending in with fellow students, but the occasional autograph request reminds him of his rising stardom. “I try not to say no,” he commented, emphasizing his desire to connect with fans.

As the season approaches, BYU prepares for the challenges of a highly competitive landscape, with Dybantsa poised to be a key player. Young’s commitment to building a winning culture at BYU is evident, as he focuses on developing Dybantsa into a top NBA prospect. “If he can do those three things, it would be really hard to not take him at No. 1,” Young stated, referring to scoring, playmaking, and defensive prowess.

Dybantsa’s journey is just beginning, but the excitement surrounding his potential is palpable. With the Cougars aiming for greatness, all eyes will be on Provo as this once-in-a-generation talent looks to leave his mark on college basketball and beyond.