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BYU freshman star AJ Dybantsa is widely projected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA draft, but the standout forward recently suggested that leaving college after one season may not be his plan.
During an appearance on the Deseret Voices podcast with McKay Coppins, Dybantsa playfully raised the possibility of returning to Provo next season when asked about his draft outlook.
“Well, I might not leave,” Dybantsa said. “My mom wants me to graduate. I might not leave. But I might leave.”
The former five-star 6-foot-9 freshman added that while many assume he will declare for the draft, he has not publicly made a decision about his future. Even the hint of a return would be surprising given Dybantsa’s dominant freshman campaign and rising NBA stock.
But if he does stay at BYU, this means the Cougars would be an even bigger threat for the 2026-27 season.
Dybantsa is averaging 24.9 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game while shooting 53 percent from the field and 36.3 percent from 3-point range. His versatile offensive skill set while also creating for teammates has made him one of the most dynamic players in college basketball.
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Dybantsa scored more than 30 points six times this season, including a 43-point explosion in a January victory over Utah. He also recorded a triple-double in December against Eastern Washington. Despite that production, the BYU star has not shut the door on college.
As it stands now, the possibility remains open and the top pick could run it back in Provo.
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