The biggest star recruit in BYU basketball history made his debut for the 2025-2026 Cougars on Monday night in Las Vegas. BYU locked horns with the Villanova Wildcats of the Big East. The Cougars weren't perfect. Few teams are in game one, but AJ Dybantsa showed why everyone wanted him on their team and why he can make this season a special one for BYU.
Dybantsa's stats weren't eye-popping, but he led the Cougars with 21 points. He also had six rebounds and three assists. He shot 50% from the field, making 9 of his 18 shots, including sinking his only three-point attempt. It was his flashes of brilliance that showed why the sky is the limit in Provo this year.
The freshman phenom showed his range by nailing the three-pointer. He showed how he can move like a guard despite being 6'9". The only weakness that appeared was at the free-throw line, where Dybantsa made only two of his seven foul shots.
Maybe the most important aspect of Dybantsa's game was the interaction and play of the rest of the team. The 26-10, Sweet 16 BYU of last year had some stars who are looking to shine that much more brightly with an even better team this year. Richie Saunders, who made his name known nationally last season, had 14 points. Baylor transfer Robert Wright III was also making his BYU debut and tallied 15 points.
The more BYU's 'big three' gel and work together, the more difficult it will be to stop them. Good coaches and good teams will simply embolden a different standout player if you focus too much on one guy. Kevin Young and BYU couldn't have asked for a much better start than a 71-66 win over a prestigious program in which your three biggest stars led the way.
AJ Dybantsa and BYU will be back in action on Saturday, in Provo against Holy Cross.