Last year, Cooper Flagg, the best high school student in the United States, chose Duke for the 2024 school year to prepare for his arrival in the NBA, which is now long awaited since he shone against the stars of Team USA this summer. Now, it's AJ Dybantsa who finds himself in this situation.
A 2m06 winger, the American explained to ESPN that he had several choices of universities in front of him for the 2025 academic year: Alabama, Auburn, Baylor, BYU, Kansas, Kansas State and North Carolina. He will visit the establishments and make his decision in six months.
“I'm looking to create a relationship with a coach who won't spare me, but with whom I'll be able to have a connection on and off the field,” says AJ Dybantsa. “We can talk. He will play with my strengths and help me with my weaknesses. The list is made according to the coaches who have spoken the most with my father. I will decide in February.”
The 17-year-old player has just won the U17 World Cup with Team USA, alongside Cameron Boozer, and he is expected to be a high pick in the 2026 Draft. His choice of university will be important in preparing for his arrival in the NBA, as he does not intend to stay in the NCAA for more than one season.
“There are important elements that will guide my choice,” he continues. “The faculty must be family-oriented, must win, must offer areas for improvement on the courts, at the muscular level too, and must be ready for me, for just one season.”
