No. 1-Ranked AJ Dybantsa Aiming for February Commitment

There’s no shortage of schools pursuing AJ Dybantsa. With 32 offers, Dybantsa is likely the most highly-after prospect in the nation.

His father, Anicet “Ace” Dybantsa, caught up with KSR+ on Friday to update his recruitment, specifically where Kentucky stands.

“I’m still talking to coaches,” Dybantsa said. “We’re still getting offers. The last one was UCF. We’re going to pick about five to six schools at the end of this month that we’ll go visit. We’ll go from there.”

A Timeline for a Decision

It’s still unclear which schools will make the cut for AJ Dybantsa. However, in talking to his dad, they plan to take at least six official visits and make a decision in early 2025.

“We’re shooting for February,” Ace said.

Dybantsa recently transferred from Prolific Prep (Napa, CA) to Utah Prep (Hurricane, UT). With that move, in addition to a recent unofficial visit to BYU, many have assumed the Cougars to be the favorite. Dybantsa’s father shot down those thoughts.

“People can assume because we’re going to Utah Prep that we’re going to BYU,” Ace said. “When we were in California, people were staying we were going to USC. It doesn’t really matter to us.”

BYU is still heavily involved in Dybantsa’s recruitment, as are the other 31 schools to offer him. One thing is for certain, however: Dybantsa plans to take the college route.

“I guarantee he will play in college,” Ace said. “He wants the experience of a college year. He promised his momma. Once you promise your momma, it’s hard to break that promise.”

The main things involved in the decision are development, a winning culture, and a family atmosphere. Education is also a key factor.

Kentucky is Making a Push

Kentucky is among the 32 schools to offer AJ Dybantsa and they continue to make a push. Dybantsa’s father has been in contact with both head coach Mark Pope and assistant coach Jason Hart.

“Everybody has talked to my son,” Ace said. “Everybody. When I say everybody, I mean everybody.”

NIL is another factor involved in the recruitment, but it’s something that everyone is offering. As his father said, “Everywhere we go, he is going to get NIL.”