BYU’s A.J. Dybantsa is the consensus top prospect for the 2026 NBA Draft, with the Indiana Pacers holding the projected No. 1 pick and needing a dynamic scorer to pair with Tyrese Haliburton.
The 2026 NBA Draft is still over a year away, but the conversation around the top pick is already heating up. As March Madness unfolds, one college star has cemented himself as the likely first selection: BYU’s A.J. Dybantsa. USA TODAY’s latest mock draft slots the Cougars’ forward to the Indiana Pacers at No. 1 overall, a move that could instantly transform a rising franchise.
Dybantsa’s rise from mid-major standout to national phenomenon has been nothing short of spectacular. The Big 12 Rookie of the Year has battled injuries and expectations, yet his per-game numbers—25.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, 3.8 assists—only tell part of the story. His explosive scoring bursts, including a nation-leading 680 unassisted points, have draft analysts buzzing.
The Pacers’ Perfect Scoring Match
Indiana’s core of Tyrese Haliburton, Andrew Nembhard, Pascal Siakam, and Ivica Zubac is already elite, but the absence of a go-to scorer has been their Achilles’ heel. Dybantsa fills that void immediately. His ability to create his own shot—evidenced by the unassisted points record—means he can generate offense even when the play breaks down. Paired with Haliburton’s playmaking, the duo could form one of the most dangerous perimeter duos in the league.
The fit isn’t just theoretical. Dybantsa’s 34% three-point shooting stretches defenses, while his 51.3% overall efficiency shows he’s not a volume scorer. At 6-foot-8 with a 7-foot wingspan, he offers switchable defense—a crucial trait in today’s NBA. The Pacers’ coaching staff, known for developing young talent, would maximize his two-way potential.
A Season of Historic Heights
What separates Dybantsa from other prospects is his consistency at an elite level. Over his last 16 games, he’s averaging 28.4 points, a span that includes a 43-point explosion against in-state rival Utah and a 40-point performance in the Big 12 Tournament against Kansas State. He became the youngest player in NCAA history to record a 30-point triple-double against Eastern Washington last December, a feat that underscores his all-around game.
These aren’t empty numbers. Dybantsa has carried a BYU team that lacks a second star, often facing double and triple teams. His ability to navigate traffic and finish at the rim, combined with improved range, makes him a nightmare matchup. The Big 12 Rookie of the Year honor is just the beginning; he’s a candidate for National Player of the Year if he leads the Cougars deep into March.
Draft Projections and the Lottery Lens
While mock drafts vary, the consensus top spot belongs to Dybantsa. Tankathon‘s current lottery projection gives the Pacers the No. 1 pick, and USA TODAY’s mock draft aligns, selecting Dybantsa first overall. This synergy between the most reliable draft simulator and a major news outlet’s analysis strengthens the projection’s credibility.
Yet, a lingering question remains: will Dybantsa declare for the draft? He has publicly flirted with returning to BYU for another season, a move that could shake up the entire draft class. For the Pacers, the calculus is clear—if they land the top pick, Dybantsa is the ideal target. His youth (he’s only 19) and runway for growth make him a franchise cornerstone.
Why This Pick Matters More Than Ever
The Pacers’ recent resurgence under coach Rick Carlisle has been built on defense and ball movement. Adding a player of Dybantsa’s caliber accelerates their timeline from playoff contender to championship threat. In a draft lacking a consensus generational talent, Dybantsa’s combination of scoring flair, playmaking, and defensive versatility makes him the safest bet at No. 1.
For BYU, losing Dybantsa would be a monumental blow, but it would also cement the program’s ability to produce NBA talent. The Cougars have a rich history, but a No. 1 pick would elevate their recruiting profile nationally. Fans are already debating the “what-if” scenarios—what if he returns? What if the Pacers trade down? But the current momentum points to Indianapolis.
A.J. Dybantsa 2026 Stats Snapshot (as of March 15)
- Position: Forward
- Current Team: BYU
- 25.3 points per game
- 6.7 rebounds per game
- 3.8 assists per game
- 51.3% field goal percentage
- 34.0% three-point field goal percentage
- Big 12 Rookie of the Year
- Leads nation in unassisted points (680)
Dybantsa’s statistical profile is rare: high volume, high efficiency, and elite playmaking. His assist numbers are particularly impressive for a primary scorer, indicating he’s not a ball-stopper. The three-point percentage suggests room for growth, but his mid-range game is already polished.
The Bottom Line
A.J. Dybantsa isn’t just a mock draft darling; he’s a transformative talent whose skill set aligns perfectly with the Pacers’ needs. The combination of his scoring explosions, defensive tools, and basketball IQ makes him the clear top choice for a team on the cusp. While the draft lottery will ultimately decide his destination, all signs point to Indianapolis, where he could ride shotgun with Tyrese Haliburton into title contention faster than anyone expects.
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