In a remarkable display of skill, freshman AJ Dybantsa scored a career-high 43 points during Brigham Young University’s (BYU) victory against the University of Utah on March 15, 2024. Dybantsa’s performance, which captivated fans and solidified his status in the school’s storied rivalry, has drawn comparisons to some of BYU’s greatest athletes.
Prior to joining BYU, Dybantsa was not well-versed in the significance of the rivalry with Utah, but that changed quickly as he embraced the moment. “I didn’t know too much about the rivalry. Like, I’m from Boston, but people were just dragging it the whole time, talking about Utah this, Utah that,” he said, reflecting on the buildup to the game. “I guess I’ll go off for y’all.”
He truly did go off, showcasing his versatility throughout the match. Dybantsa shot 15 of 24 from the field, including 4 of 5 from beyond the arc and 9 of 10 from the foul line. He also contributed six rebounds, three assists, and a block, demonstrating not just scoring prowess but an all-around game.
Breaking Records and Expectations
Dybantsa’s achievement not only marked the highest single-game scoring performance for BYU since Chase Fischer scored 41 points in 2015, but it also eclipsed the previous freshman record of 36 points set by Danny Ainge in 1977. The significance of this accomplishment was not lost on the young athlete. “It feels good to break any record, even if it was Danny’s or not,” he remarked after the game.
BYU head coach Kevin Young lauded Dybantsa’s talent, stating, “In my mind I was thinking, ‘Man, this is a special player.’ I think he is the clear-cut No. 1 pick in the NBA draft coming up. It was on full display tonight.” Young highlighted how Dybantsa bounced back from a disappointing performance just a week earlier, where he scored only 13 points in a loss to Texas Tech.
“The most impressive aspect of Dybantsa’s day was his response to that loss,” Young added. “He came out tonight unfazed and clearly wanted to just go out and dominate.”
Utah head coach Alex Jensen, who has experience in the NBA, echoed Young’s sentiments. “He’s a generational talent, and he showed what he’s capable of tonight,” Jensen said, acknowledging the challenge Dybantsa posed. “There’s no telling how good he could get; he can do a lot of things. The sky’s the limit.”
Freshmen Standouts and Upcoming Challenges
Dybantsa’s performance came on a day when other freshmen also made headlines across the NCAA. Fellow freshman Kingston Flemings scored 42 points for Houston in a narrow defeat at Texas Tech, while Keaton Wagler from Illinois exploded for 46 points in an upset win against No. 4 Purdue. Dybantsa acknowledged the competitive landscape among his peers, stating, “We have a crazy class, I think one of the best in recent years.”
Looking ahead, BYU faces a daunting challenge as they prepare to host No. 1-ranked Arizona, a team boasting an undefeated record of 20-0. This matchup, set for March 17, 2024, is anticipated to be one of the most compelling games at the Marriott Center since the famed showdown between Jimmer Fredette and Kawhi Leonard in 2011.
Dybantsa remains focused and ready for the challenge. “It’s going to be a tough game, but that’s what you live for,” he said. “This is why I came to the Big 12, to play teams like this. We’re looking to hand Arizona their first loss. The Marriott Center is going to be behind us, and we’ll be prepared for them.”
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Dybantsa and his potential as he continues to make his mark in college basketball.
