AJ Dybantsa, BYU basketball to face Miami in ESPN Events Invitational Tournament

BYU basketball stakes down another big name matchup in non-conference play.
Mar 1, 2025; Provo, Utah, USA; Brigham Young Cougars 2025/-2026 top recruit Aj Dybantsa joins the student section during the second half of the game against the West Virginia Mountaineers at Marriott Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images
Mar 1, 2025; Provo, Utah, USA; Brigham Young Cougars 2025/-2026 top recruit Aj Dybantsa joins the student section during the second half of the game against the West Virginia Mountaineers at Marriott Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images | Rob Gray-Imagn Images

BYU basketball's non-conference slate is finally beginning to settle, as a matchup against the Miami Hurricanes in the ESPN Events Invitational Tournament has been set to tip off in Orlando, Jon Rothstein reports.

In a four-team tournament, the opening slate pits the Cougars against the Hurricanes, with Georgetown and Dayton squaring off at the other end.

Miami, a traditionally strong side from the ACC, had a very down year last season, as they plummeted to dead last in their conference with a final record of 7-24. With the legendary Jim Larranaga out of the head coach's seat, the Hurricanes swiped Duke associate head coach, Jai Lucas to lead the 'Canes into a second golden age of hoops.

But BYU is a major roadblock for anyone they come across this season. Simply put: Kevin Young's depth chart is completely loaded from top to bottom. NBA talent, projected All-American candidates, and athletic sticks of dynamite lining the halls of the Marriott Center makes this year's squad unlike any the school has ever seen.

Miami, though reloading, is another strong name to have on the non-conference slate for the Cougars, who are anxiously anticipating a season stuffed with high expectations. This game will come as the team begins to nail down its identity. The tournament will be played in Orlando, Florida, on November 27th and 28th, just days before the grueling Big 12 conference schedule opens up.

This game marks another opportunity for AJ Dybantsa and company to shine on a national stage, where many expect the Cougars to reside on most of their high profile matchups through the year.

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