BYU Star AJ Dybantsa's Family Roots Span Continents

From his Congolese father to his Jamaican mother, the basketball phenom has a diverse background that shaped his path to stardom.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 7:50am

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AJ Dybantsa, the highly touted BYU basketball star, comes from a close-knit family with deep roots spanning multiple continents. His father, Anicet "Ace" Dybantsa Sr., was born in Congo and later moved to France before settling in Boston, where AJ was born. AJ's mother, Chelsea, is from Jamaica. Together, Ace and Chelsea have guided AJ's basketball career, with Ace serving as his manager and agent. AJ also has two sisters, Samarra and Jasmyn, who have excelled in their own athletic pursuits.

Why it matters

AJ Dybantsa's diverse family background and upbringing have played a significant role in shaping him into one of the top basketball prospects in the country. His parents' immigrant experiences and emphasis on education have instilled in him a strong work ethic and determination that have propelled him to stardom. As AJ prepares to potentially enter the NBA, his family's support and influence will continue to be an important part of his journey.

The details

AJ Dybantsa, whose real name is Anicet Dybantsa Jr., was born in Boston, Massachusetts. His father, Anicet "Ace" Dybantsa Sr., was born in Congo and later moved to France before immigrating to the United States and working as a police officer, including at Boston University. AJ's mother, Chelsea, is from Jamaica. The family has emphasized the importance of education, with Chelsea encouraging AJ and his sisters to complete their degrees, even if AJ leaves college early for the NBA. AJ has two sisters, Samarra and Jasmyn, who have also excelled in their respective sports.

  • AJ Dybantsa was born in Boston, Massachusetts.
  • Ace Dybantsa moved from Congo to France as a teenager, then to the United States in 1999.
  • Chelsea Dybantsa is from Jamaica and has family in Hanover, Jamaica.

The players

Anicet "Ace" Dybantsa Sr.

AJ Dybantsa's father, who was born in Congo and later moved to France and the United States, where he worked as a police officer. He now serves as AJ's manager and agent.

Chelsea Dybantsa

AJ Dybantsa's mother, who is from Jamaica and has emphasized the importance of education for her children.

Samarra Dybantsa

AJ Dybantsa's older sister, who is currently a student at the University of Massachusetts-Boston.

Jasmyn Dybantsa

AJ Dybantsa's younger sister, who is a top volleyball prospect at Lone Peak High School in Utah.

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What they’re saying

“Sometimes I have to pinch myself. I'm in Utah of all places. A kid from Africa is in Utah. We love it here. People have been great to us. They have embraced our family and have definitely embraced AJ.”

— Anicet "Ace" Dybantsa Sr., AJ Dybantsa's father

“Education means a lot to me. I always say to my kids, that's one thing someone can't take away from you, so make sure to get your degree. AJ promised me that he will.”

— Chelsea Dybantsa, AJ Dybantsa's mother

The takeaway

AJ Dybantsa's diverse family background, with roots in Congo, Jamaica, and the United States, has played a crucial role in shaping his path to basketball stardom. His parents' emphasis on education and strong work ethic, combined with the support of his close-knit family, have been instrumental in his development as a top prospect.