BYU Basketball Mailbag: AJ Dybantsa News, Dallin Hall’s Return, and More
BYU’s Promising Start
BYU Basketball has kicked off the season with an impressive 4-0 record, and Egor Demin has exceeded expectations. The team’s true potential will come into focus during the Thanksgiving tournament in San Diego, where they’ll face Ole Miss and either NC State or Purdue. A December 3 road game against Providence, followed by three Power conference opponents, will provide a clearer picture of BYU’s season trajectory.
AJ Dybantsa News
Let’s begin with the most-asked topic: AJ Dybantsa. Reports from 247 Sports and On3 suggest AJ is leaning toward committing in late November or early December, even though his father mentioned February as a possibility. On3’s Joe Tipton views BYU and Alabama as the frontrunners, with Kansas State as a “sleeper.”
BYU has worked hard to recruit AJ, who visited campus for the third time last Saturday. His father has also made several visits, underscoring their connection to the program. Alabama remains a strong contender due to their on-court success and AJ’s relationship with assistant coach Preston Murphy. Sources indicate BYU and Kansas State are leading, with Kansas State pushing hard in NIL offers. However, AJ recently canceled a planned trip to Kansas State, which could signal a shift in his decision process.
Dallin Hall’s Return and Team Impact
Dallin Hall has been sidelined with a toe injury but is expected to return in November—possibly this Saturday against Mississippi Valley State. Hall’s return is crucial, as he was arguably BYU’s most valuable player last season, excelling as the team’s primary ball handler in the Big 12.
Hall is likely to reclaim a starting spot, replacing Trevin Knell, and the coaching staff is confident he and Demin can complement each other. Having a veteran like Hall, who brings experience and leadership, will significantly raise BYU’s ceiling. Veterans are essential in college basketball, and Hall’s two seasons as a starting point guard are a rarity in today’s game.
European Recruiting Momentum
BYU’s international recruiting continues to gain traction, especially in Europe. Egor Demin, who left Real Madrid to join BYU, has significantly boosted his NBA draft stock, positioning himself as a top-5 pick contender. His success could attract more European talent to BYU in the future.
Demin’s former Real Madrid teammate, Hugo Gonzalez, started the season ahead of him in mock drafts but has since been overshadowed by Demin’s rise. BYU’s coaching staff is leveraging Demin’s success to target other top European prospects in the 2025 and 2026 classes.
Keba Keita Injury and Potential Lineup Adjustments
Although specifics about Keba Keita’s injury remain unclear, if he misses time, Fousseyni Traore would likely step into the starting lineup. Mihailo Boskovic would serve as the primary backup center, with Max Triplett potentially seeing more minutes. This scenario could also lead to more small-ball lineups.
Recruiting Updates for the 2025 Class
BYU is actively recruiting 5-star wing Nate Ament, ranked #4 in the 2025 class. Their pursuit of Ament may hinge on AJ Dybantsa’s decision. If AJ commits, BYU may prioritize veteran transfers over Ament. However, if AJ goes elsewhere, BYU could shift their NIL focus to Ament.
Additionally, Khadim Mboup is expected to join BYU in late December after completing classes at Utah Prep. The 6-foot-9 forward is likely to redshirt this season but has strong long-term potential due to his athleticism and size.