In the coming months, there will be much speculation about where BYU freshman AJ Dybantsa will be picked in the 2026 NBA Draft.
Dybantsa, the highest-rated recruit in BYU history, is expected to headline a draft class that also includes Kansas guard Darryn Peterson and Duke forward Cameron Boozer.
Is it possible for Dybantsa to reunite with former BYU guard Egor Demin in the NBA, after they missed each other by a year at BYU?
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Recent NBA mock drafts suggest that such a reunion could indeed happen.
Demin was selected as the No. 8 overall pick in the recent draft by the Brooklyn Nets, which are now projected to be a top team in the 2026 draft.
There is also a strong belief that Dybantsa might join the Utah Jazz, especially after another anticipated rebuilding season for the team.
AJ Dybantsa’s Projections in 2026 NBA Mock Drafts
Dybantsa’s projection: No. 3 overall to Brooklyn Nets
Boone commented: “Dybantsa embodies the 6-foot-9 scoring wing many NBA teams desire. He’s in the running for the No. 1 spot, thanks to his exceptional talent and potential, although he’s shown inconsistency at times.”
Sportscasting.com, Ben Pfeifer
Dybantsa’s projection: No. 3 overall to Brooklyn Nets
Pfeifer stated: “Dybantsa’s athleticism and shot-making capabilities make him a likely candidate to evolve into a dominant scorer in the NBA, potentially becoming a franchise-altering player.”
ESPN, Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo
Dybantsa’s projection: No. 2 overall to Utah Jazz
Givony mentioned: “Dybantsa has consistently filled the stat sheet. He demonstrated improved performance at the USA Basketball U19 World Cup, making him highly sought after for his ability to score and defend multiple positions.”
