Official Naismith Award announcements

No. 1 Prospect AJ Dybantsa Commits to BYU in Record $5M NIL Deal

Dec 10, 2024, 03:50 PM

AJ Dybantsa, a 6-foot-9 small forward and the No. 1 high school basketball recruit in the class of 2025, has committed to Brigham Young University (BYU). The Brockton, Massachusetts native announced his decision on ESPN's "First Take" after narrowing his choices to BYU, Alabama, Kansas, and North Carolina. Dybantsa is considered a potential top pick in the 2026 NBA draft and compares his playing style to a mix of Tracy McGrady and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Reports suggest that his Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals at BYU could amount to $5 million, marking a record-setting agreement. He plays for Utah Prep Academy. His decision to join BYU, over traditional basketball powerhouses, is a significant boost for the Cougars' program. BYU head coach Kevin Young's NBA background played a significant role in Dybantsa's decision. It was revealed that Dybantsa had already signed with BYU during the early signing period, with the school receiving his papers before the November 20 deadline.