In the high-stakes world of High School Basketball, the Naismith Boys’ High School Player of the Year is the most prestigious accolade a player can win.  Just like every year, this year’s battle for the winner will be nothing short of fierce. With past winners including legendary players like Lebron James and Kobe Bryant, the award holds immense significance, making it a desirable honour for any player. The five finalists of this year’s Naismith Boys’ High School Player of the Year were announced on 22nd February. Unsurprisingly, all the nominated players are also named Jersey Mike’s Naismith first-team All-America selections.

All of the finalists are extremely talented players, and the name that has stood out the most for the fans and analysts to be the favourite to win the award is of A.J Dybantsa. He currently plays for the Utah Prep and has committed to BYU. He has been deemed as the strongest contender for the award by also being ranked No. 1 in recruit rankings as per ESPN. However, AI has decided to give us a glimpse into who the potential winner could be. Shocking as it may be, AI chose Cameron Boozer as the top candidate to win the award.

Boozer is a senior forward from Christopher Columbus High School in Miami, Florida. By leading his school to the best record this season, he has proven why he belongs in this conversation. Previously, Boozer was awarded the MVP of the 2024 FIBA U-17 World Cup held in Turkey and has lived up to the name of his father, former NBA All-Star Carlos Boozer, a member of the 2008 Redeem Team that secured the Gold for USA at the Beijing Olympics.

Standing at 6’10, Boozer possesses a combination of size, skill and basketball IQ. He is truly walking in the steps of his father by committing to his alma mater Duke which solidifies his future as a star at the next level.

Nate Ament, a senior forward from Highland School in Warrenton, Virginia is another fine player who has made his case for being a potential winner. Albeit, he is one of the top prospects, he remains uncommitted as of now. Ament is currently keeping his options open, however, the No. 4 ranked forward is giving extra consideration to Arkansas, Duke, Kentucky, Louisville, Notre Dame and Tennessee.

Darryn Peterson, a senior guard from Prolific Prep, Napa defeated Lebron James’s alma mater Fighting Irish, 70-46. Finishing with 23 pts, 9 rebs and 5 assists, he was applauded by Dru Joyce, the head coach of St. Vincent-St. Joyce said, “He’s the best since Lebron.” Coming from a man who coached Lebron James, this is a praise that is equivalent of attaining knighthood. Peterson is a shooting guard and has committed to play at Kansas. Peterson is another contender for the prestigious award.

Lastly, Darius Acuff, a senior guard from IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida has made a name for himself as a top prospect. He has committed to Arkansas and is the No. 1 ranked point guard of the 2025 class.

The wait for the result of this prestigious award will get over on 7th March 2025. Will it be the potential No. 1 pick Dybantsa who joins elite company or the prodigy Boozer who is going to carry the flame forward.

AJ Dybantsa vs Cameron Boozer: The Rivalry Heating Up in the Race for Naismith’s Player of the Year

The race to Naismith’s Player of the Year award has only added fuel to the fire that is the rivalry between Dybantsa and Boozer. Their rivalry has become a focal point in high school basketball, both showcasing their exceptional talents and competitive spirit.

In their most recent encounter, Dybantsa’s Utah Prep emerged victorious over Boozer’s Explorer’s with a 69-68 victory. Dybantsa finished with 28, while Boozer scored 20. Although, earlier matchups have had a similar masterpiece by both the titans of high school basketball.

These head to head battles have not only underscored their individual prowess but also fuelled discussions about their future. The race to the Naimisth award is only the start of another great rivalry which is poised to bring excitement into the basketball landscape.

So, who do you prefer more—Dybantsa or Boozer? Let us know!