As the NBA’s top teams battle in the playoffs, the rest of the league is preparing for this summer’s NBA Draft and evaluating top prospects like BYU wing AJ Dybantsa.
While Dybantsa hasn’t officially declared for the NBA Draft, he has started working on improving his game for wherever he’s playing next season. A two-time All-Star guard recently gave his thoughts on Dybantsa.
All-Star Guard Praises AJ Dybantsa as a Special Talent
Two-Time All-Star point guard Isaiah Thomas praised Dybantsa’s talent after training with him. Thomas said on X “Got a good workout in with the young killa AJ Dybantsa yesterday morning! Special to say the least. Keep grindin fam.”
After a decorated prep career, Dybantsa entered his freshman season of college basketball as arguably the top prospect in the nation.
He lived up to the hype during the season, leading the NCAA in scoring at 25.5 points per game, while shooting 51 percent from the field. He also showed off his all-around game for the Cougars, averaging 6.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game.
However, Dybantsa experienced a disappointing end to his season from a team perspective, as BYU lost to Texas in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament. Regardless, the rough finish doesn’t appear to have impacted his draft stock if he does declare for the draft.
Now all 14 lottery teams are set, we simulated the 2026 NBA Draft & these where the results, via @tankathon
1. Jazz, AJ Dybantsa
2. Bulls, Darryn Peterson
3. OKC (via Clippers), Cameron Boozer
4. Pacers, Caleb Wilson
5. Wizards, Kingston Flemings
6. Nets, Keaton Wagler
7.… pic.twitter.com/xwKjPYK98d— NBA Retweet (@RTNBA) April 22, 2026
As Thomas notes, Dybantsa is considered a special talent with the potential to be franchise-altering. Dybantsa revealed during the season that NBA icon LeBron James has offered advice. The duo has worked out together, and Dybantsa has been photographed at Lakers games watching James.
At 6-9, Dybantsa has a versatile offensive game, and scouts believe he will continue evolving as a shooter. He had struggled as a playmaker at the end of the season, finishing his last two games with 3 assists and 10 turnovers, but scouts believe in his upside as a ball handler.
There’s also optimism that Dybantsa could become a plus defender as he continues to develop into his prime.
Thomas’ comments add more hype and anticipation for Dybantsa’s NBA debut. Dybantsa is expected to reveal his future plans regarding staying in school or turning pro in an upcoming announcement.
