GAME SUMMARY

NEW YORK — No matter which franchise ends up selecting him in the upcoming NBA Draft, AJ Dybantsa is set to become a staple at Madison Square Garden for years to come. His debut on December 9, 2025, during the Jimmy V Classic, saw him shine brightly in BYU’s thrilling 67-64 victory against Clemson.

The game-winning moment was claimed not by Dybantsa but by fellow guard Rob Wright III, whose buzzer-beating three-pointer left the crowd ecstatic.

“Just go ahead and kick it to me,” Wright said before nailing the decisive shot.

This match marked Dybantsa’s emergence as a leading player, showcasing remarkable skill and poise. Despite a sluggish first half where BYU trailed by as much as 22 points, Dybantsa took charge in the second half.

He finished with remarkable stats: 28 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists—most of them in the latter half of the game. His performance alone accounted for 34 out of BYU’s 45 second-half points, solidifying BYU’s comeback.

Dybantsa was instrumental in transforming the game’s momentum, reflected in both his outstanding individual contribution and the Cougars’ overall performance. Coach Kevin Young encapsulated the essence of Dybantsa’s potential, highlighting that the freshman might just be the catalyst for BYU’s journey toward greatness this season.

AN EXCITING FUTURE

This game will be remembered as a pivotal moment in Dybantsa’s career, potentially marking the beginning of something extraordinary. BYU, now with a record of 8-1, stands as a contender, fueled by Dybantsa’s promising talent.