Months ago, the BYU Cougars made history by landing top-ranked prospect AJ Dybantsa. Dybantsa had been the top prospect in the 2026 class since he reclassified in 2023.
Some argued that he even had a case for being the first overall pick over Duke Blue Devils star Cooper Flagg if he had been eligible to declare for the 2025 NBA Draft.
Now, it seems like there’s a new sheriff in town. As reported by Adam Finkelstein of 247Sports, the top source of player rankings, Dybantsa is no longer the best recruit in his class.
AJ Dybantsa falls from No. 1 ranking for the first time in three years
“While a full, final update will arrive in May as it always does,” Finkelstein wrote. “247Sports could wait no longer in minting Darryn Peterson, a Kansas signee, as the new No. 1 player after we saw all we needed to see from the five-star combo guard at the McDonald’s All American Game and Chipotle National. Peterson jumps AJ Dybantsa for the spot.”
AJ Dybantsa
Even so, a lot can happen from now until the day of the NBA Draft, both good and bad. Dybantsa, like Peterson, is extremely talented, and this could be a big chip on his shoulder.
Both of them could end up having long and successful careers, both in college and the pros. Hopefully, this friendly competition will fuel the fire within them and bring out the best in them.
SurveyWill Dybantsa be the No. 1 pick in 2026?
Will Dybantsa be the No. 1 pick in 2026?
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