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BYU Star AJ Dybantsa Weighs NBA Draft Decision
Freshman phenom considering returning to college for another season
Published on Mar. 4, 2026
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BYU freshman basketball star AJ Dybantsa is considering returning to college for the 2026-27 season instead of declaring for the 2026 NBA Draft. Dybantsa, who has been projected as a top pick, said his mother wants him to graduate and the fans have been encouraging him to stay, though he's still undecided on his future plans.
Why it matters
Dybantsa's decision could have major implications for both BYU's basketball program and his professional prospects. As one of the top young talents in the country, his return would be a huge boost for the Cougars, but leaving early for the NBA could set him up for a lucrative career.
The details
In his freshman season, Dybantsa has been a standout performer for BYU, averaging 24.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.1 steals per game. He's shooting 53% from the field, 36.3% from 3-point range and 75.6% from the free-throw line. BYU has a 20-9 record so far this season, including an 8-8 mark in Big 12 play.
- Dybantsa made his comments about potentially returning to BYU in an interview on Tuesday, March 4, 2026.
- BYU's next game is on March 7, 2026 at home against No. 10 Texas Tech.
The players
AJ Dybantsa
A freshman basketball player at Brigham Young University who has emerged as one of the top young talents in the country and is weighing whether to enter the 2026 NBA Draft or return to college for another season.
BYU Cougars
The men's basketball team at Brigham Young University, a private university in Provo, Utah. The Cougars are currently 20-9 on the season and 8-8 in Big 12 play.
What they’re saying
“I might not leave. I might not leave college. ... my mom wants me to graduate. Yeah, so I might not leave. But I might leave. The fans might get into my head, talking about one more year, maybe three more years. I don't know. I'm going to have to talk to my mom.”
— AJ Dybantsa, BYU Freshman Basketball Player (Deseret News)
What’s next
Dybantsa will have to make a decision on whether to enter the 2026 NBA Draft or return to BYU for his sophomore season in the coming months. His choice could have a major impact on both his professional future and the Cougars' outlook for the 2026-27 campaign.
The takeaway
AJ Dybantsa's dilemma highlights the difficult decision many top college basketball players face when weighing the opportunity to turn pro versus the potential benefits of staying in school. His choice could shape the future of both his career and BYU's program.
