A Dream Lineup Takes Shape
At the NBA draft combine in Chicago, former BYU standout AJ Dybantsa turned heads not only for his performance but also for his unexpected suit during media availability, a sartorial choice that underscored his preparedness for the next stage of his career.
In a candid interview, Dybantsa outlined the five players he would love to start alongside in the NBA, naming LeBron James, Nikola Jokic, Kevin Durant and Steph Curry, and explained that he would assume the small forward role within that imagined lineup.
The revelation reflects a lifelong admiration for Kevin Durant, whom he has cited as his favorite player, and highlights the aspirational nature of his basketball vision.
Coupled with his national scoring title — averaging 25.5 points per game last season — and a recent Julius Erving Award that honored him as the nation’s top small forward, Dybantsa’s profile has positioned him as a leading candidate for the Washington Wizards, who hold the first overall pick in the upcoming draft.
The draft is scheduled for June 23 in Brooklyn, where teams will assess a range of prospects, and Dybantsa’s polished demeanor and clear articulation of his role suggest a maturity that could influence franchise decisions beyond raw statistics.
While the combine has traditionally served as a showcase of athletic potential, Dybantsa’s combination of skill, poise, and clear intent signals a readiness that may extend his impact at the professional level.