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BYU's AJ Dybantsa drops 40 points in Big 12 Tournament win
Freshman star's dominant performance impresses coach Kevin Young
Mar. 11, 2026 at 5:08am
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BYU freshman AJ Dybantsa scored 40 points, grabbed 9 rebounds, and dished out 6 assists to lead the Cougars to a 105-91 win over Kansas State in the first round of the Big 12 Tournament. BYU head coach Kevin Young praised Dybantsa's "super-impressive" and "most complete" game, highlighting his ability to score in a variety of ways against the Wildcats.
Why it matters
Dybantsa has emerged as a potential top NBA draft pick this season, and his dominant performance in the Big 12 Tournament opener showcases his all-around game and ability to carry BYU's offense, especially with the absence of injured star Richie Saunders.
The details
Dybantsa shot an efficient 15-for-21 from the field, including 2-for-6 from 3-point range. He showcased his versatility by scoring at the rim, in the mid-range, and from beyond the arc. With fellow standout Robert Wright III adding 14 points, BYU was able to pull away for the 14-point victory over Kansas State.
- The game took place on Tuesday, March 11, 2026 in the first round of the Big 12 Tournament.
The players
AJ Dybantsa
A freshman standout for BYU who is considered a potential top NBA draft pick after his dominant 40-point performance in the Big 12 Tournament opener.
Kevin Young
The head coach of the BYU Cougars, who praised Dybantsa's "super-impressive" and "most complete" game against Kansas State.
Robert Wright III
A BYU starter who scored 14 points to complement Dybantsa's 40-point outburst in the win over Kansas State.
Richie Saunders
A BYU star who suffered a devastating injury, forcing Dybantsa and Wright to carry a heavier offensive load for the Cougars.
What they’re saying
“Kevin Young says tonight's game from Dybantsa was 'super-impressive because he was scoring every way possible. Felt it was one of his most complete games, put it right near the top because it's in the Big 12 Tournament.'”
— Kevin Young, Head Coach, BYU Cougars (Heartland College Sports)
What’s next
BYU will take on West Virginia in the second round of the Big 12 Tournament on Wednesday, with the Cougars looking to solidify their projected No. 6 seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament.
The takeaway
Dybantsa's dominant 40-point performance in the Big 12 Tournament opener showcases his potential as a top NBA draft pick and ability to carry BYU's offense, even with the absence of injured star Richie Saunders. The Cougars will look to build on this win as they continue their postseason push.
