URGENT UPDATE: BYU freshman AJ Dybantsa is making headlines as a top prospect for the upcoming NBA Draft, showcasing stellar performance in recent games. Over the last five contests, all victories for BYU, Dybantsa has averaged an impressive 23.4 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 4.6 assists, shooting an astounding 60% from the field.
This surge comes after a rocky stretch where Dybantsa shot below 38% in two consecutive games last month. His remarkable turnaround not only places him in the spotlight but also raises questions about the current CBS Sports National Player of the Year race, especially when compared to Cameron Boozer of Duke, who is averaging fewer points, assists, and a lower shooting percentage overall.
As of now, if the season ended today, Dybantsa would likely be a First Team All-American. This achievement is significant considering he leads scoring and rebounding for a BYU team that holds a record of 10-1 and is currently ranked No. 6 in the CBS Sports Top 25 And 1, with Michigan at the top for the tenth consecutive day.
Next up for BYU is a crucial matchup against Abilene Christian on Friday, with the game scheduled to tip off at 9:30 p.m. ET on TNT. Fans are encouraged to watch not just Dybantsa, but also Richie Saunders, who is enjoying the best season of his collegiate career. Saunders is averaging a career-high 18.1 points and 5.4 rebounds, shooting 50.8% from the field and 41.2% from three-point range. In the last game, he contributed 24 points, along with five steals, four rebounds, and three assists in a dominating 93-57 victory over Pacific, extending BYU’s winning streak to seven games.
BYU’s only loss this season came from a narrow defeat to UConn, who currently sits at No. 5 in the Top 25 And 1 rankings.
The spotlight is on Dybantsa and the Cougars as they continue their impressive run. Basketball fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see if Dybantsa can maintain this momentum and solidify his status as a premier NBA Draft candidate.
