The future of NIL and college basketball is already making waves — and his name is AJ Dybantsa. At just 17 years old, the towering 6-foot-9 standout is changing the game before even stepping onto a collegiate court. Dybantsa recently committed to Brigham Young University (BYU), becoming the program’s first-ever five-star recruit, a historic moment for the Cougars and a significant statement within the evolving landscape of NCAA athletics.
But it’s not just his talent on the court that’s turning heads. Dybantsa is also the top-ranked high school basketball player in the country, and perhaps even more notably, he currently holds the highest NIL valuation in college basketball — an estimated $4.1 million. His emergence as both an elite athlete and a brand in his own right signals a new era in college sports, where talent, influence, and values intersect.
Dybantsa’s rise is marked by a series of historic achievements. Not only is he the first male basketball player to sign with Red Bull, but his growing influence has also earned him a massive endorsement deal with Nike reportedly worth more than $4 million. These landmark deals don’t just reflect his star power — they set a precedent for how future high school and college athletes can position themselves in the new world of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) marketing.
While rumors swirled about Dybantsa inking a $7 million deal with BYU directly, he has publicly denied those claims. Still, analysts believe that his presence alone could transform the Cougars into legitimate Big 12 title contenders, giving powerhouse programs like the University of Houston serious competition.
Beyond the paycheck: Focused on the game
For all the fanfare surrounding his financial success, Dybantsa remains laser-focused on basketball. He’s been clear about his goal to enter the NBA draft after just one season at BYU — a move that reflects his confidence, preparation, and long-term vision. His dedication to the game goes beyond surface-level ambition.
In a move that gained attention, Dybantsa declined a $1,000 grant that comes with being named Gatorade National Player of the Year. His reasoning? He believed that gesture would be better used to serve the community, particularly one close to his roots. “If I continue this route, I’m going to get a lot more money than that,” he said. “So, I might as well just donate (that check) back to the community.”
This isn’t just media-friendly posturing — it’s a value system passed down from his father, Ace Dybantsa, who emigrated from the Congo. On a recent trip to Brazzaville, the capital city of the Congo, Ace reminded AJ of the privilege he carries and the responsibility that comes with it. It’s a message the young athlete has clearly taken to heart.
What NBA scouts are seeing
It’s no surprise that NBA scouts already have their eyes on Dybantsa. With a frame tailor-made for modern basketball and an evolving skill set, he fits the mold of today’s elite two-way wings. “He’s exactly what the NBA is looking for,” one anonymous front office executive told The Athletic. “A big wing with size, IQ, and the ability to create and defend multiple positions.”
This kind of praise is rare — especially for someone yet to play a minute of college basketball — but it’s indicative of the immense potential Dybantsa carries. As he enters BYU, the expectations will be sky-high, but he’s shown time and again that he thrives under pressure.
Staying humble, staying focused
While other athletes might be tempted to get swept up in the excitement of multimillion-dollar deals, Dybantsa stays grounded. He has said that his father handles the business side of things, allowing him to keep his focus on development and preparation. “People just gonna talk,” he shared. “But I didn’t even know how much I’m getting. I’m trying to make it to the NBA.”
This mindset has influenced key decisions in his career already. Rather than accepting a more lucrative offer to attend the prestigious Montverde Academy, Dybantsa chose Utah Prep, signing a $600,000 NIL deal. His reasoning was simple yet profound: “You don’t have to go to a school like that to accomplish certain things.” For Dybantsa, it’s not about prestige — it’s about purpose.
A blueprint for the next generation
Dybantsa isn’t just redefining success in college basketball; he’s setting a new standard for how young athletes can balance commercial success, athletic ambition, and social impact. His story speaks to the future of the game — one where athletes are more empowered than ever to shape their own narratives.
As Dybantsa begins his collegiate journey at BYU, all eyes will be on him — not just for the buckets he’ll score, but for the blueprint he’s laying down for future stars navigating the uncharted territory of NIL deals and early stardom. In a landscape that often prioritizes flash over substance, Dybantsa is proving that character, focus, and authenticity can still lead the way.
