A few days ago, AJ Dybantsa unveiled his next destination, choosing the BYU Cougars as his college basketball home. The top-ranked recruit in the class of 2025 shared the news during an appearance on ESPN’s First Take. However, his announcement wasn’t just about his college plans. The young talent also had some intriguing thoughts about his NBA future to share, drawing commentary from an Orlando Magic star and eventually, the fans.

Following his decision to join BYU as its first five-star recruit, AJ Dybantsa named the San Antonio Spurs and Orlando Magic as ideal fits for his playing style. “Me and Paolo would just go crazy together,” he said, suggesting an exciting potential pairing with Paolo Banchero on the Magic.

As soon as Paolo Banchero saw Dybantsa’s comments, he couldn’t help but respond. He shared a story with Dybantsa’s statement, adding his own playful remark: “lol yk they ain’t letting that shit happen” along with a laughing emoji, hinting that the possibility of them teaming up might be unlikely.

It’s not just Banchero who took notice—Dybantsa’s comments about his professional ambitions have sparked significant buzz, drawing the attention of NBA fans on Instagram and fueling widespread conversation about his future potential.

AJ Dybantsa’s NBA future: Could the Orlando Magic be a contender for the Top 2026 Pick?

The Boston-area standout and recent Utah Prep transfer’s decision to commit to BYU is a major recruiting win for an “underdog” program in recent memory. With deals already in place with Nike and RedBull, Dybantsa’s name, image, and likeness value is reported to be the highest ever for a single prospect. Additionally, his impact on junior national teams at the FIBA World Cup has made a mark on the international stage.

While his college career will provide a clearer picture, his current stats and accolades undoubtedly position him as a future asset for an NBA franchise. One fan even suggested that Dybantsa joining the Orlando Magic could elevate them to playoff contention. “if magic get him and stay healthy they’re easily a playoff team”

The Orlando Magic has been plagued by injuries as their star players Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero both are currently ruled out of participation with injuries – torn oblique – that could go long term. Being a top prospect, Dybantsa, could make a good addition one highlights. “Well Magic have Banchero & Wagner with long term injuries, maybe it could happen.”

While Dybantsa views himself as a great fit for the Magic, not all fans share that opinion. Given that Wagner already plays as a forward for the team, similar to Dybantsa, one fan argued that adding him to the roster wouldn’t be a good fit. “That would be a wierdt fit with Franz as well. Also that’s jus not gonna happen.”

There’s a catch, though. As Dybantsa is projected to be the No. 1 pick, that typically goes to teams with a poor record from the previous season. This could make it challenging for the Orlando Magic, or any of the teams Dybantsa mentioned, to land him. With a 17-10 record, the Magic are already ranked 3rd in the Eastern Conference and the Spurs are 12-12.

Reflecting on this situation, one Instagram user commented, “If he ends up on the Magic something went horribly wrong for him or the Magic lol.” Another fan shared the sentiment, “Those teams will never be bad enough to draft him.”

While it may seem unlikely, there is still a chance for the Orlando Magic to land Dybantsa, as they hold a 2026 pick from the Phoenix Suns. However, all of that is still up in the air for now. The focus for Dybantsa will be proving his worth with the BYU Cougars next year.