Top prospect AJ Dybantsa sent a shockwave in the basketball world when he chose BYU over other top colleges. The NBA also took notice of their future ‘first round’ pick. Analysts dissected his decision, and many discussed his massive NIL deal, but the star, confident in his choice, remained calm and answered every question. And for AJ, it was not only about him. It was about the complete 2025 draft class. And his quick reactions to every move said it all.

When BYU resigned Richie Saunders, the star recruit was one to express his excitement. Just one word. ‘Up’. But it held a deep meaning for the program’s ambitions and movements. Alongside the BYU veteran, AJ Dybantsa will be looking to form a partnership, make a deep run in the NCAA tournaments, and eventually, look to win a title. However, while he has taken the next step, his messages are not for his current teammates only. He has a special message for his former teammate, too.

AJ’s former teammate at Utah Prep, Jaden Vance, committed to the University of California, San Diego Tritons. Sharing the news in his stories, Dybantsa wrote, “Yesss My Brother!!!!” with a fitting background song – Rich Forever by John Legend. The two crossed fingers symbolized his good wishes for Jaden’s future, while the music was symbolic of their struggles and hard work put together in their early career.

And this is not the first time AJ has hyped up his teammate. During a high school game against Mt. Zion, Jaden’s slam dunk on a missed three-pointer caught everyone’s attention. Jaden showed quick feet and athleticism to collect the ball above the rim and dunk it in one motion. For those who couldn’t witness the incredible play, AJ Dybantsa made sure that they did. He shared the video on his social media, hyping up his teammate. And the love is absolutely mutual.

Jaden Vance also showered praise on the country’s top high school star. Jaden posted a 20-tile carousel, captioning it “Forever Grateful” to highlight the season with Utah Prep. In one of those pictures, Jaden and AJ were spotted imitating Stephen Curry’s ‘night night’ celebration. AJ then commented, “My bloooddd 4L”. Yes, they may not be blood brothers, but they shared a special bond on the court.

AJ Dybantsa is ready for a bright future

BYU, under HC Kevin Young, was up against other top colleges for the signature of the nation’s top prospect, AJ Dybantsa. Kansas, Alabama, and North Carolina were ready to match any offer, but the 18-year-old went with his heart and joined the promising BYU program. He confirmed his decision on ESPN’s First Take, live to the audience.

Keeping his vision clear – to join the NBA as the number one pick, AJ Dybantsa chose the program that already has an an NBA-level coaching staff and facilities to help him improve. “A lot stood out on my visit. Obviously, coach Kevin Young there. My ultimate goal is to get to the NBA. He coached my favorite player of all time, Kevin Durant, and he had high praise for him. On my visit, head coach all the way down to the analytics guy, analytics guy all the way down to the dietician is all NBA staff, even the strength coach,” he said.

The 2025 All-American is a crucial piece for BYU’s title glory, which last reached the competition till the Sweet Sixteen phase and made it farthest to the Elite Eight three times. The 6-ft-9 small forward will have multiple impactful players around him with Richie Saunders running the floor, and Kennard Davis Jr. as another guard. The side also has their anchors, Keba Keita, Dawson Baker, Mihailo Boskovic, and Brody Kozlowski back in the line-up.

With a chance to train under former NBA coaching staff, a team to perform at the highest level, and a chance to be the centerpiece right from the start, AJ Dybantsa might fulfill his dream after all.