BYU Cougars Build Around Five-Star Recruit AJ Dybantsa

Following the commitment of AJ Dybantsa, the top prospect in the 2025 high school class, the BYU Cougars have focused on constructing a competitive roster for the 2025-26 college basketball season. Dybantsa, a five-star recruit and projected No. 2 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, is seen as the foundational piece for the Cougars, prompting the coaching staff to strategize on how best to build a team around him. Justin Young, BYU's director of recruiting, emphasized the need for a balanced roster that could both support Dybantsa and contribute offensively.

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The Cougars identified the need for a dynamic point guard after Dallin Hall entered the transfer portal following their Sweet 16 loss to Alabama. They targeted Robert Wright III, a top-25 recruit who had a significant impact at Baylor. Kevin Young noted Wright's performance against BYU last season as a key factor in their decision. Alongside Dybantsa and returning All-Big 12 player Richie Saunders, who averaged 20.0 points in the latter part of the previous season, BYU's perimeter core was solidified.

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To complement this trio, the Cougars retained key players such as Keba Keita, a defensive anchor, and added transfers like Kennard Davis Jr., who averaged 16.3 points at Southern Illinois, and Dominique Diomande from Washington. This strategic mix aims to enhance the team's offensive capabilities while ensuring depth.

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As the season progresses, the chemistry among the key players remains a work in progress. Initial games revealed a tendency for players to adopt a "my turn, your turn" mentality. However, recent performances, including a significant comeback against UConn and a dominant win over Wisconsin, indicate improvement. Dybantsa, Wright, and Saunders have collectively showcased their scoring potential, averaging 19.4, 16.9, and 18.9 points per game, respectively.

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Kevin Young expressed optimism about the team's development, stating that the recent victories reflect the style of play they aspire to achieve. The Cougars are currently ranked fifth in offensive efficiency, underscoring the effectiveness of their roster construction.

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The Cougars are set to face the Clemson Tigers in the Jimmy V Classic, where they aim to extend their winning streak to five games. Both teams enter the matchup with strong records, but BYU's offensive prowess and depth position them as favorites. The outcome of this game will be crucial as they prepare for the upcoming Big 12 play in January, where they will need to continue building on their chemistry and performance.

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BYU's coaching staff has emphasized the importance of maximizing the potential of their roster, with Kevin Young stating, "It's not good enough to just go get one or two good players." The focus on team composition and chemistry is seen as vital for achieving success in a competitive landscape.

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• "You can't squander [a chance like this] at a place like BYU." — Justin Young, Director of Recruiting

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• "It makes not only my life easier, but their lives easier too." — AJ Dybantsa

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• "That game felt good... That's what we want it to look like and feel like." — Kevin Young

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The BYU Cougars are navigating a pivotal season with high expectations, driven by the talent of AJ Dybantsa and a carefully constructed roster aimed at achieving success in college basketball.

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