The NBA Draft is finally upon us, and in the hours leading up to Adam Silver's first words over the podium in New York, we want to break down and evaluate the representatives from BYU basketball: AJ Dybantsa and Richie Saunders.
So, using prompts from the FanSided staff, I've done the service of introducing these draft candidates by their on-court and off-court qualities. First off the board -- both for BYU and likely for the Washington Wizards, holders of the number-one pick -- is freshman superstar AJ Dybantsa.
AJ Dybantsa: NBA Draft Profile 2026
AJ Dybantsa has been viewed as the likely number-one pick through the majority of the draft process for good reason: his secret identity is about as convincing as Clark Kent's stacked physique stuffed behind his tiny desk at the Daily Universe. He led the nation in points per game with the mature, refined scoring palette of a 29-year-old NBA veteran. Oh, and he has a 42" vertical.
Moment you fell in love with them -- quote, play, game, any memorable/defining moment?
AJ posted a BYU freshman record 43 points against rival Utah on a random Saturday night. It always feels good to stick it to your rival, but doubly so when your superstar unleashes an incinerating "kamehameha" blast that decimates the competition.
Key area for growth/swing skill?
For all his size, skill, and athleticism, we'd like to see AJ spread his wings as a primary defender a touch more.
What is the first thing his NBA team will learn about this player?
Give this kid the keys to your offense. Yes, he's not even old enough to enjoy a glass of wine with his teammates after the game, but he has a skill set that is matured, seasoned, and proven. With underrated playmaking ability and heralded scoring chops, he could be a 20-point scorer from day one at the highest level.
Why we wish he was staying?
Could you imagine how far AJ Dybantsa could carry BYU basketball if he had a real team around him? With 5-star players like Robert Wright III and Bruce Branch III joining the team, alongside serious, capable offensive options at every position, Dybantsa wouldn't have to do it all himself as a sophomore. But he's already proved more than capable of doing that when he needs to.
Key measurable (vertical, wingspan, standing reach, etc.)?
AJ Dybantsa has a 42" vertical leap. Yes, standing at 6'9" with a plus wingspan is a bonus -- he'll certainly feel plenty comfortable among forwards in the NBA -- he's an athletic freak with the scoring touch of an angel. Using that leap, he can elevate above any outstretched contest, much like Kevin Durant. He'll also happily drive the ball through the rim with no regard for the helpless beings beneath him.
Major criticism and why not to worry about it?
AJ's three-point percentage was far from great while with the Cougars. Hitting just 33.1%, he had his moments of hot shooting, but left most nights 0-1 or 1-3 from distance. He made his money inside the arc. But here's the good news: his jumper is far from broken, and Dybantsa will work harder than anyone to squash that hiccup in his game.
Little known fun fact?
AJ's jersey number (3) is the same as the previous BYU alum to go one-and-done out of Provo, Egor Demin. Bruce Branch III, another one-and-done prospect joining BYU this season, will also wear that same number, giving 3 a similar meaning to the number 10 in soccer -- it means much more than a simple digit.
Add us as a preferred source on Google