BYU forward AJ Dybantsa, the top men’s basketball prospect for the class of 2025, revealed in an interview with ESPN’s Myron Medcalf that he consulted NBA superstar Kevin Durant about Cougars head coach Kevin Young before his official visit to the school. This interaction highlights the strong influence Durant has, given his status as a mentor and friend to Dybantsa.
Durant and Young’s paths crossed during the recent NBA season when Durant played for the Phoenix Suns, where Young served as the associate head coach. Seeking insights, Dybantsa reached out to Durant, who offered high praise for Young. Dybantsa recounted Durant’s encouraging words, saying, “He’s like, ‘Yo, you’re going to [like] him, so just take the visit and see how you feel about it.’”
Dybantsa, who has long admired Durant’s stellar career—marked by 15 All-Star selections and two NBA championships—felt reassured by the endorsement. This positive recommendation paved the way for an enjoyable visit to BYU, where Young showcased how the program operates similarly to an NBA team, leveraging real professionals in the basketball community.
The BYU basketball program is thriving, with the Cougars currently holding a perfect 3-0 record. Their successful start includes notable victories against Villanova, Holy Cross, and Delaware, indicating a promising season ahead. Dybantsa’s decision to visit BYU and seek valuable guidance from Durant reflects both his dedication to making the right choice in his basketball journey and the supportive network surrounding him as he navigates his impending collegiate career.