AJ Dybantsa, one of the top basketball recruits in the 2025 class, is setting his sights firmly on the NBA. He will spend the upcoming year playing at BYU under coach Kevin Young before making the anticipated jump to the professional league. His journey is deeply influenced by the LeBron James workouts and inspiration that drive his development.
AJ Dybantsa’s Early Rise and Skill Set
Dybantsa’s game already shows signs of professional-level readiness, combining dynamic above-the-rim finishing, accurate midrange shooting, and flexible defense. After reclassifying to attend BYU earlier than expected, Dybantsa is gaining valuable experience. He has trained with some of the NBA’s best, including LeBron James, referring casually to the NBA veteran as “Bron.”
“I’ve worked out with Bron,” Dybantsa drops casually, referring to NBA ironman LeBron James. “I’ve worked out with a lot of the top guys. I wish I had the chance to work out with Kobe.” He cites Bryant’s Mamba mentality as an inspiration and wears Nike Kobe 5s.
This blend of mentorship and training with elite players fuels Dybantsa’s confidence, while Kobe Bryant’s Mamba Mentality remains a significant motivational source. Wearing Kobe’s signature Nike shoes symbolizes the connection to the late star’s legacy, which continues to inspire Dybantsa.
The Role of Mentors and Coaches in Shaping His Career
Kobe Bryant’s influence extends through Dybantsa’s other mentor, Kevin Durant, whose approach to conditioning and gameplay further shapes the young athlete’s path. Durant’s link to BYU’s head coach Kevin Young—formerly an assistant with the Phoenix Suns alongside Durant—creates a robust support network for Dybantsa. This mentorship helps bridge the gap between college basketball and the NBA’s professional environment.
BYU’s Support and NIL Opportunities
BYU recently offered Dybantsa an NIL package reportedly worth $5 million, but it was the culture and NBA-ready system under Kevin Young that attracted him most. Despite securing endorsement deals with major brands like Red Bull and Nike before arriving on campus, Dybantsa emphasizes that financial incentives were not the primary reason for his decision. He recently became college basketball’s leading NIL earner, yet remains focused on his development rather than spending his earnings.
Looking Ahead: A Promising Season and NBA Future
AJ Dybantsa is poised to be one of the most exciting players to watch in the upcoming college basketball season, thanks to his exceptional skill set and strong support system. His dedication, fueled by LeBron James workouts and the relentless inspiration drawn from the Mamba Mentality, marks him as a future star on the NBA horizon.