SALT LAKE CITY — AJ Dybantsa showcased his skills during a thrilling matchup between BYU and Utah in a well-known rivalry known as the “Holy War.” On January 11, 2026, the game took place at Utah’s Jon M. Huntsman Center, where BYU secured a hard-fought 89-84 victory.
AJ Dybantsa’s Standout Performance
Dybantsa, a highly regarded prospect for the upcoming NBA Draft, finished the game with 20 points, six rebounds, and four assists. Despite Utah’s defensive strategy of doubling him early in the game, he demonstrated notable improvement in his ball handling and decision-making.
Scoring Efficiency
- Dybantsa shot 74.1 percent on two-point attempts in the last six games.
- He adapted well to Utah’s defense, taking only three contested two-point jump shots.
- He consistently attacked the basket, forcing multiple fouls against defenders.
His ability to generate scoring opportunities translated into frequent trips to the free-throw line, with his attempts exceeding ten in five consecutive games. This statistic highlights his aggressive offensive style, which has drawn attention from NBA scouts.
Shooting and Playmaking Skills
While Dybantsa has drawn comparisons to Kevin Durant due to his height and shooting ability, there remain concerns about his perimeter shooting. Currently, he has a three-point shooting percentage of 32.6 percent and a free-throw percentage of 74.6 percent.
His shooting form shows promise, but adjustments could enhance his effectiveness. When shooting off the dribble, he has demonstrated comfort, but shots off the catch tend to lack height.
Defensive Awareness and Future Challenges
Dybantsa’s defensive skills have also improved, as evidenced by his 18 steals over the last seven games. Despite his size and ability to contest shots, he needs to enhance his rebounding and secondary rim protection.
Looking ahead, Dybantsa faces tougher tests, including a highly anticipated game on January 31 against Darryn Peterson, another top draft prospect. As scouts analyze his performance, Dybantsa’s potential continues to shine, positioning him as a notable contender in the upcoming NBA Draft.
