AJ Dybantsa is continuing to introduce himself to Cougar Nation.

The highly-touted BYU basketball signee made his “BYU Sports Nation” debut Tuesday morning, appearing virtually alongside hosts Jarom Jordan and Spencer Linton to talk about his decision to sign with the Cougars and more.

Here are some of the highlight’s of Dybantsa’s appearance on the show.

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On the reception from BYU fans since committing to the Cougars

“It’s been great. Stress free. I got to go on campus after I committed and (the fans) were showing a bunch of love at the halftime introduction and there’s guys on Twitter and Instagram just showing a whole bunch of love in my comments, so it’s great.”

On why he chose to announce his commitment on ESPN’s ‘First Take’ show

“I mean, nobody’s ever done ‘First Take’ before, and I’m a big guy that wants to do stuff nobody really does.”

On why he chose to play for head coach Kevin Young

“He’s coached some of my favorite players — Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, Chris Paul, guys I’ve been knowing, so, I mean, if he’s done at the NBA level, he can definitely do it at the college level.”

On befriending NBA stars such as Kevin Durant

“They just show a lot of support because they’re (veterans) in the game and they want to see the young guys succeed. I get to text them, I get to talk to them every time we go to games. I mean, it’s fun just knowing the greats of the game.”

On what skill he’s working to improve to be ready for the NBA

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“I’m really working on my shot right now. By the time I get to BYU, obviously I’m going to be playing with a farther (3-point) line back, so hopefully that season, I can shoot 40-plus percent and it’ll just give me higher chances of draft stock and all that.”

On playing alongside future BYU teammate Xavion Staton at Utah Prep

“It’s been great. He only played two games (thus far), but we had a couple of practices and obviously we’re talking about the future. It’s great to get in that relationship early.”

On his favorite part of living in Utah

“Being peaceful. Nobody bothers me.”

On his favorite activities outside of basketball

“Sleep.”

AJ Dybantsa and BYU coach Kevin Young pose for a picture in Provo on Oct. 11, 2024. On Tuesday, the top recruit in the country signed with BYU.
AJ Dybantsa and BYU coach Kevin Young pose for a picture in Provo on Oct. 11, 2024. | Nate Edwards
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