In Kevin Young’s first season as head coach, BYU achieved a remarkable run to the Sweet Sixteen in the NCAA Tournament, setting a high bar for the program. The Cougars also secured AJ Dybantsa, the top recruit of the 2025 recruiting class, whose commitment adds to BYU’s growing momentum as he prepares to start his collegiate career.
Dybantsa, a standout Utah Prep player, has witnessed BYU’s rapid progress and anticipates continued growth in the upcoming 2025-26 season. He envisions even greater success for the team under Young’s leadership.
Ambitions for a National Championship Drive BYBYU
During an interview with ESPN’s Jorge Sedano, where Kevin Durant comparisons were discussed, Dybantsa highlighted BYU’s primary goal for the season: winning a national championship. Reflecting on the Cougars’ advancement to the second weekend of the tournament with a first-year coach, he expressed optimism about the team’s future trajectory.
“I think the only goal we’ve got in mind is winning a national championship,”
Dybantsa said during the NBA Summer League.
“We got to a Sweet Sixteen last year [with] a first-year coach. I think we’re only going to go farther.”
Dybantsa’s admiration for Kevin Durant aligns with his coach’s background; Young served as an assistant coach with the Phoenix Suns, where he worked with Durant, one of the NBA’s elite players. This connection underscores the significance of Durant as a model for Dybantsa’s development.
Dybantsa Reflects on Comparisons to Kevin Durant
Despite comparisons to Durant, Dybantsa acknowledges differences, particularly in their physical dimensions. Durant stands around seven feet tall, whereas Dybantsa measures 6-foot-9. The former Five Star Plus+ recruit focuses on learning from Durant’s style rather than replicating it exactly.
“I wouldn’t say it’s too similar,”
Dybantsa commented on the comparisons.
“I think he’s really one of one. But I mean, I try to take a lot of things from his game like the simplicity part of it, getting to your spots quicker and stuff like that.”
These insights highlight Dybantsa’s thoughtful approach to his game as he finds inspiration in Durant’s efficiency and skills.
Recruitment and Incoming Talent Strengthen BYU’s Roster
Dybantsa’s recruitment was closely followed, culminating in his commitment to BYU during an appearance on ESPN’s First Take. Along with Dybantsa, BYU’s 2025 recruiting class includes key players such as four-star center Xavion Staton. Their arrival, combined with notable transfers like former Baylor guard Rob Wright, who was ranked as the No. 9 overall transfer in the recent portal cycle, fortifies BYU’s roster depth and competitiveness.
Dybantsa himself secured a high-profile Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreement with Fanatics, reflecting his marketability and prominence as a top recruit. The school’s efforts to assemble a strong package for him were reported by On3’s Pete Nakos, demonstrating BYU’s commitment to supporting their stars on and off the court.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for BYU Basketball
BYU’s impressive tournament run, bolstered by standout recruits like AJ Dybantsa and transfer additions, sets the program on a promising path. With the ambition of a national championship clear in players’ minds and the guidance of Kevin Young—who brings NBA experience from coaching Durant—the Cougars aim to build on last season’s success.
Dybantsa’s acceptance of Kevin Durant comparisons reflects both respect and realism, as he prepares to carve out his own legacy. The upcoming season will test how this young, talented roster will transform the program’s championship aspirations into reality.