AJ DYBANTSA PLAYS ALL 40 MINUTES IN BYU UPSET WIN

## The Nation's Top Recruit Delivers AJ Dybantsa proved why every major program wanted him on February 22, 2026. The five-star freshman from Utah Prep dominated for all 40 minutes as BYU stunned No. 6 Iowa State in Provo. Dybantsa chose the Cougars over Duke, Kansas, and North Carolina in November 2024. The 6-foot-9 wing averaged 32.1 points per game during his final prep season in 2024-25. ESPN ranked Dybantsa as the consensus No. 1 prospect in America before his college commitment. His decision to stay home in Utah shocked the basketball world and recruiting experts nationwide. ## Historic Performance Against Top Competition Playing every single minute against a ranked opponent showcases Dybantsa's elite conditioning and mental toughness. Iowa State entered the game with a 19-4 record and championship aspirations in the Big 12. BYU had struggled in conference play before this breakthrough victory on their home court. Freshmen typically play 25-30 minutes per game in major college basketball programs. Dybantsa's 40-minute performance ranks among the most impressive debuts by any first-year player in 2026. The Cyclones had allowed fewer than 70 points per game before facing the Cougars. ## BYU's Big 12 Statement Win This upset victory represents BYU's biggest win since joining the Big 12 Conference in July 2023. The Cougars had posted a disappointing 12-11 record before shocking Iowa State at the Marriott Center. Coach Kevin Young's program needed a signature win to validate their conference membership. Iowa State coach T.J. Otzelberger had guided his team to 24 wins in the previous season. The Cyclones were projected to finish second in the Big 12 before this stunning loss in Utah. BYU improved to 13-11 overall and gained crucial momentum for March tournament consideration. ## The Making of America's Best Recruit Dybantsa averaged 28.3 points and 11.7 rebounds during his senior year at Utah Prep Academy. The Massachusetts native transferred to Utah specifically to develop his game for college basketball. His family relocated across the country to support his basketball dreams and academic goals. Major programs offered Dybantsa guaranteed starting positions and NIL deals worth seven figures annually. He chose BYU despite lower financial offers because of their development program and academic reputation. The decision surprised recruiting analysts who predicted he would join Duke or Kansas. ## What This Win Means for March BYU now holds a quality victory over a top-10 opponent heading into Selection Sunday discussions. The Cougars had zero Quadrant 1 wins before defeating Iowa State on their home floor. This result could be the difference between making the NCAA Tournament and playing in the NIT. Dybantsa's performance gives BYU fans hope for a deep postseason run in March 2026. The freshman has scored in double figures in 22 of 24 games this season. His development curve suggests even better performances ahead in conference tournament play. ## The Future is Bright in Provo This victory establishes Dybantsa as a legitimate Player of the Year candidate for the 2026-27 season. The freshman will likely enter NBA Draft discussions after this breakthrough performance against ranked competition. BYU's recruiting efforts should benefit significantly from this national television exposure and upset victory.