Inside Look: AJ Dybantsa’s Potential as a Top NBA Draft Prospect

AJ Dybantsa, a prominent prospect for the upcoming NBA Draft, showcased his skills in a thrilling college basketball rivalry. On January 11, 2026, his team, BYU, faced Utah in the much-anticipated “Holy War” game. Dybantsa helped secure a hard-fought 89-84 victory, proving his worth to pro scouts.

A Look at AJ Dybantsa’s Performance

Despite the Utes attempting to double-team him, Dybantsa scored 20 points during the match. His ability to adapt under pressure stood out, as he demonstrated notable improvement in his dribbling and decision-making compared to earlier performances this season. The 18-year-old prodigy showed a better control of his movements, especially in transitional plays.

Scoring Efficiency

• Dybantsa took only three contested jump shots during the game.
• He converted five of his two-point attempts near the basket.
• His recent shooting record stands at 74.1% on two-point field goals over six games.

Throughout the season, Dybantsa has consistently generated scoring opportunities against strong competition. His ability to draw fouls has been a significant factor, as he has averaged double-digit free throw attempts in the past five games. His free-throw shooting rate of .642 attempts per field goal is impressive for a perimeter player.

Areas for Improvement

While Dybantsa has drawn comparisons to NBA star Kevin Durant for his height and scoring versatility, his shooting percentages indicate room for growth. He currently averages 32.6% from three-point range and 74.6% from the free-throw line. Many observers suggest that minor adjustments to his shooting technique could elevate his performance.

Playmaking and Defense

As a playmaker, Dybantsa has shown potential but still needs to develop the ability to read defenses. His passing was primarily reactionary against Utah. Furthermore, although he has recorded 18 steals in his last seven games, his defensive versatility requires further enhancement for the NBA level.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, Dybantsa has a significant challenge on January 31, 2026, against fellow top prospect Darryn Peterson. This matchup will likely attract attention from NBA scouts. Observers believe that Dybantsa, alongside potential top picks like Peterson and Duke’s Cameron Boozer, represents the future of NBA talent.

His recent performance against Utah has solidified Dybantsa’s position as a key contender for one of the top selections in the upcoming NBA Draft. As he continues to develop his skills, expectations for his future success remain high.