AJ Dybantsa has quickly become one of the most talked-about names in prep basketball. Known for his blend of size and skill, the young Utah standout is already attracting attention from college scouts and basketball insiders.
His physical presence stands out on the court, combining a rare combination of height and athleticism. But it’s his work ethic and basketball IQ that have truly set him apart in a competitive Utah prep scene.
Beyond the hardwood, family plays a key role in his journey. As he prepares to take his game to BYU next season, the support behind the scenes fuels his ambitions and sets the stage for what could be a remarkable future in the sport.
How old is AJ Dybantsa?
Anicet “AJ” Dybantsa Jr. was born on January 29, 2007 in Brockton, Massachusetts, making him 18 years old during his senior prep season in 2025. Despite his age, he carries the poise of a seasoned prospect.
AJ Dybantsa #7 of Team USA looks on during the 2025 Nike Hoop Summit at Moda Center on April 12, 2025. (Source: Soobum Im/Getty Images)
He reclassified from the Class of 2026 into 2025, accelerating his journey and positioning himself as the top recruit in the country—a bold move that reflects both confidence and ambition.
By the time he steps onto a college campus at BYU in Fall 2025, he will already be entering adulthood under a spotlight usually reserved for seasoned athletes, according to BYU Athletics.
How tall is AJ Dybantsa?
Standing at 6‑foot‑9, or 2.06 meters, with a wingspan reported to exceed 7 feet, AJ Dybantsa combines size and skill in a rare package for a high school wing. Weighing around 200–210 pounds, his frame adds physicality to his versatility—allowing him to play inside or space the floor with an NBA‑ready build.
AJ Dybantsa’s family and love life
AJ Dybantsa comes from a rich cultural background: paternal ties to France’s Grigny, with Congolese and Jamaican heritage shaping his identity. He’s the son of Ace and Chelsea Dybantsa and has a younger sister, Jasmyn, a rising volleyball talent.
AJ Dybantsa #7 of Team USA looks on during the 2025 Nike Hoop Summit at Moda Center on April 12, 2025. (Source: Soobum Im/Getty Images)
He credits strong family support for helping him stay grounded amid national hype. His father and mother moved with him to Utah Prep to maintain that foundation. As for a romantic life, nothing public has surfaced. Focused on basketball and academics, he keeps most off-court chapters private—for now.
Which team will AJ Dybantsa play for in 2025?
After transferring to Utah Prep for his senior year in 2024–25, AJ Dybantsa verbally committed to Brigham Young University on December 10, 2024, choosing the Cougars over Kansas, UNC and Alabama.
He becomes BYU’s first-ever five-star recruit, bringing high expectations to Provo as coach Kevin Young’s marquee signee in a recruiting turnaround. The plan is for a one-and-done path: after his final prep year at Utah Prep, he’s ready for BYU in Fall 2025 before potentially entering the 2026 NBA Draft.
AJ Dybantsa’s career highlights
- FIBA U19 World Cup MVP & Gold Medal (2025): Led Team USA to a 109–76 final victory over Germany in Lausanne. Averaged 14.3 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 2.3 APG, and 1.1 SPG—earning tournament MVP honors for his all-around dominance.
- Back-to-Back Youth World Champion: Previously guided the USA to gold at the 2023 FIBA U16 Americas and 2024 U17 World Cup. In each, he played a key role early in his rise.
- Prep Stat-Stuffer at Utah Prep: Averaged a double-double (approx. 17.7 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 4.1 APG) this season, solidifying his dominance in Utah’s prep circuit and earning top national rankings.
- Prolific Prep & MaxPreps Recognition: At Prolific Prep (2023–24), he posted 21.2 PPG, 9.4 RPG, 3.5 APG, earning MaxPreps All-America and watchlists for National Player of the Year.
- EYBL Peach Jam Star: Led his AAU squad, Expressions Elite, in 2023 with 25.8 PPG at Peach Jam, showcasing his offensive versatility and playmaking.
- High School Gatorade Player of the Year (Massachusetts, 2023): As a freshman at Saint Sebastian’s, posted 19.1 PPG, 9.6 RPG, 2.9 APG, and 2.5 BPG—earning top state honors.
- High-Flying Highlight Reel: His jaw-dropping “double between-the-legs” dunk in a Utah Prep tournament became a viral sensation and highlighted his elite athleticism.
