Alabama, Auburn Basketball Among Finalists for Top 2025 Prospect AJ Dybantsa

The recruitment race for AJ Dybantsa, the nation’s No. 1 recruit for the class of 2025, is heating up, with Alabama Crimson Tide's Nate Oats and Auburn Tigers' Bruce Pearl emerging as key contenders. On Friday morning, Dybantsa revealed to ESPN that Alabama and Auburn are among his final choices.

Dybantsa, who has had a standout summer, also included Baylor, BYU, Kansas, Kansas State, and North Carolina in his list of finalists. Standing at 6-foot-9 and weighing 205 pounds, he has been a dominant force in the Elite Youth Basketball League, averaging 22.6 points per game.

In addition to his impressive league performance, Dybantsa contributed to Team USA's gold medal victory in the FIBA U17 World Cup and made a significant move by transferring high schools. After starring at Prolific Prep—an institution that produced former Auburn and current Alabama point guard Aden Holloway—Dybantsa will complete his high school career at Utah Prep.

Discussing his college selection criteria with ESPN’s Paul Biancardi, Dybantsa emphasized the importance of a family-oriented atmosphere, a winning program, strong development opportunities both on and off the court, and the potential to be a one-and-done player ready to make an immediate impact.

Dybantsa already visited Auburn officially in March and plans to visit the other six finalists before making his decision. He aims to finalize his college choice by February.