AJ Dybantsa has sparked debate across college basketball after suggesting he might not enter the 2026 NBA Draft.
The BYU freshman is the clear favourite to go first overall after a dominant debut season, but he recently revealed he is still weighing whether to turn professional or return to college for another year.
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His uncertainty has thrown what many believed would be a straightforward decision into doubt.
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AJ Dybantsa hints he could return to BYU
AJ Dybantsa discussed his future during a recent podcast appearance, admitting he has not made up his mind yet. The 19-year-old said family considerations will play a major role in the decision.
His comments quickly caught the attention of NBA scouts and analysts who have long expected him to be the top pick.
“I might not leave college. My mum wants me to graduate. But I might leave. The fans might get into my head, talking about one more year, maybe three more years. I don’t know.”
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“I’m going to have to talk to my mum.”
BYU freshman widely projected as top pick in 2026 NBA Draft
Dybantsa arrived at BYU as the top recruit in his class and has lived up to the hype during his freshman season.
The forward is averaging 24.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game while shooting over 53 percent from the field.
He currently leads all of college basketball in scoring and has helped keep BYU in contention heading toward the postseason.
Even with the uncertainty surrounding his decision, many NBA evaluators still view Dybantsa as the leading candidate to be selected first overall when the 2026 NBA Draft takes place.
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