AJ Dybantsa opens up the possibility that he may stay at BYU, even as NBA Draft buzz swirls around him.
Fresh off a standout inaugural season at BYU, the former top national recruit is continuing to build his case as a potential No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. Yet in a surprising twist, he hinted that he might not declare for the draft after all.
Dybantsa floated the idea during a conversation with Deseret News, telling McKay Coppins that his mom wants him to finish college and earn a degree. When asked directly about whether he anticipates going No. 1, he replied, “I might not leave,” later clarifying that he may choose to stay in school for the time being.
He also cautioned that the decision isn’t final and that he still could opt to enter the draft after the season concludes. He expects the familiar “one more year” chants to echo through BYU’s remaining regular-season games, though he emphasized that a personal discussion with his mother will shape the ultimate choice.
Asked if he has ruled out declaring, Dybantsa replied, “No, because my mom wants me to graduate.” The factor beyond basketball is clear to him: completing his education.
With 24.9 points per game to lead BYU, along with 6.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.1 steals on average, Dybantsa has lived up to the hype since arriving at BYU as the nation’s top recruit. He’s shooting 53% from the field and 36.3% from three-point range.
As he looks ahead, the prevailing expectation remains that he will declare for the NBA. On3’s Jamie Shaw III positioned him at No. 1 on his latest Big Board, while ESPN’s recent mock draft placed him No. 2 overall.
Dybantsa is aware of the pressure and the public predictions, but he’s quick to note that nothing is set in stone.
“People can speculate,” he said. “I didn’t commit to anything.”
Would you side with the consensus and expect a draft declaration, or do you think there’s a real chance he stays in college longer? Share your thoughts below.
