BYU Freshman Breaks Big 12 Tournament Scoring Record

AJ Dybantsa surpasses Kevin Durant's previous mark with 93 points across 3 games

Mar. 14, 2026 at 5:33am

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BYU freshman AJ Dybantsa set a new Big 12 tournament scoring record, amassing 93 points across three games - one more than the previous record held by Kevin Durant in 2007. Dybantsa's impressive performance, including a 40-point outburst against Kansas State, highlights the growing impact of elite freshman players in college basketball.

Why it matters

Dybantsa's record-breaking performance signals a potential shift in how college basketball scoring evolves, with freshman players increasingly making an immediate impact. His efficient shooting and well-rounded game demonstrate the advanced skills many top recruits now possess when entering college programs.

The details

Dybantsa's averages of 25 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists across the three tournament games showcase his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game. His shooting percentages, including 15-of-21 against Kansas State, illustrate his elite shooting touch. Houston coach Kelvin Sampson praised Dybantsa's shooting, noting 'He can shoot. There's a lot of shooters that can't score... If you watch the ball roll off his fingertips... you can tell he's an elite shooter'.

  • Dybantsa broke the Big 12 tournament scoring record of 92 points set by Kevin Durant in 2007.

The players

AJ Dybantsa

A freshman basketball player at BYU who set a new Big 12 tournament scoring record with 93 points across three games.

Kevin Durant

A former college basketball player who previously held the Big 12 tournament scoring record with 92 points.

Kelvin Sampson

The head coach of the Houston basketball team, which faced off against Dybantsa and BYU in the tournament.

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What they’re saying

“He can shoot. There's a lot of shooters that can't score... If you watch the ball roll off his fingertips... you can tell he's an elite shooter.”

— Kelvin Sampson, Houston Head Coach

What’s next

Dybantsa is widely projected to enter the NBA draft after just one season at BYU, continuing the 'one-and-done' trend among elite college prospects.

The takeaway

Dybantsa's record-breaking performance highlights the growing impact of freshman players in college basketball, driven by their advanced skills and readiness to contribute immediately. His efficient scoring and elite shooting ability are becoming increasingly valuable traits in the modern game.