Mother of BYU Star AJ Dybantsa Advocates for College Continuation Over NBA Draft
The mother of basketball prodigy AJ Dybantsa has expressed a strong preference for her son to remain in college rather than immediately declaring for the NBA Draft, where he aspires to be the number one overall selection. This family deliberation comes at a critical juncture following BYU's early exit from March Madness.
Impending Decision After Tournament Disappointment
Dybantsa revealed that he will likely finalize his future plans within the next couple of weeks, after the freshman's efforts could not prevent BYU from crashing out in the first round of the NCAA tournament. The Cougars suffered a defeat to the number eleven-seeded Texas Longhorns, despite Dybantsa delivering a historic performance with thirty-five points and ten rebounds.
The nineteen-year-old athlete now confronts a pivotal choice: whether to enter the NBA Draft this summer or spend another year developing his skills in college basketball. He plans to dedicate the coming weeks to discussions with his family, particularly his mother Chelsea, whom he affectionately describes as "the big boss" in these matters.
Educational Priorities and Family Influence
On the eve of March Madness, sources indicated that Chelsea Dybantsa would rather her son stay at BYU to focus on his academic advancement. Dybantsa himself has acknowledged recently that he "might not leave college," highlighting his mother's desire for him to complete his degree. This family emphasis on education contrasts with his burgeoning professional opportunities.
Financially, Dybantsa is already securing significant earnings through college, having signed a Name, Image, and Likeness deal with BYU reportedly worth five million dollars. Additionally, he has lucrative partnerships with major brands like Nike, Fanatics, and Red Bull, showcasing his marketability even before a potential NBA career.
Record-Breaking Performance and Draft Prospects
Dybantsa's standout game made history, as no freshman had ever scored thirty-five points in his debut in the men's NCAA tournament. However, his aspiration to become the top draft pick faces stiff competition from other elite prospects such as Kansas guard Darryn Peterson and Duke star Cam Boozer, which could influence his decision-making process.
The talented forward chose BYU largely due to the influence of Kevin Young, the Cougars' former NBA coach who has worked with notable players including Joel Embiid and Dybantsa's idol, Kevin Durant. Following the recent loss, Young expressed gratitude for the opportunity to coach Dybantsa, remarking that "there were moments in tonight's game that he looked like an NBA player."
Young added a reflective note, stating, "I think I'll look back in twenty years and just have a lot of joy [knowing] that I was able to be a part of his story." This endorsement underscores Dybantsa's readiness for the professional league, yet the ultimate decision rests with his family's guidance and personal considerations.
