For good reasons, BYU basketball is generating more and more buzz. Experts predict that the Cougars will rank among the top collegiate basketball teams in the upcoming season after adding superstar recruit AJ Dybantsa. Respected college basketball commentator Sean Paul recently emphasized BYU’s starting lineup and claimed they would be among the top five in the NCAA.
BYU appears ready to make a significant national impact with its blend of youthful, highly talented players and seasoned veterans.
A Star-Studded Starting Five
According to Sean Paul’s Analysis, BYU’s potential starting five includes:
Point Guard: Rob Wright
Shooting Guard: Richie Saunders (if he returns)
Guard: Kennard Davis Jr.
Forward: AJ Dybantsa
Forward: Keba Keita
BYU likely starting five is a top five lineup in CBB.
PG: Rob Wright
G: Richie Saunders (if he decides to return)
G: Kennard Davis Jr
F: AJ Dybantsa
F: Keba KeitaOutstanding PG, top recruit in the class, First-Team All Big 12 selection from 2025, a stud transfer from the… https://t.co/BzfM0a8MlU
— Sean Paul (@SeanPaulCBB) April 25, 2025
This lineup combines next-level skill and experience. Richie Saunders is a seasoned scorer, Rob Wright leads at point guard, and Keba Keita is strong and athletic on the interior. Kennard Davis Jr. adds depth and versatility to the wing, but AJ Dybantsa is unquestionably the center of attention.
Many think the unique blend of size, athleticism, and scoring prowess might elevate BYU to a real Final Four Contender the next season.
AJ Dybantsa’s Game-Changing Impact
AJ Dybantsa’s arrival was a huge win for BYU. Basketball fans were stunned when Dybantsa, the anticipated top recruit in the Class of 2025, decided to attend BYU rather than more established powerhouse schools.
His decisions were influenced by a number of factors, including the allure of playing for the new head coach, Kevin Young, who has vast NBA experience from his tenure with the Pheonix Suns and Philadelphia 76ers, and a reported NIL package worth between $5 and $7 million, according to reports from the New York Post.
Coaching Changes and a New Era for BYU
Much of the excitement around BYU’s upcoming season also stems from the arrival of Kevin Young. After a successful NBA coaching career, Young brings a professional mindset to the college game. His influence has already been felt on the recruiting trail and will likely extend into BYU’s offensive and defensive systems.
With Young at the helm, BYU is expected to play a faster, more modern style of basketball, which should perfectly suit Dybantsa and the rest of the lineup.
The combination of an NBA-style system, elite talent, and a deep lineup has analysts and fans buzzing about what’s to come in Provo.
High Expectations for 2024/25
Expectations are high for BYU’s upcoming season because of the projected starting five and the arrival of Dybantsa. They want to be a legitimate top-five team nationally, not just one that makes it to the tournament.
KEEP READING: With AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, Cam Boozer On The Same Team, A look At The Greatest U16 Team USA of All Time
It won’t be easy, but if the lineup clicks and players like Dybantsa perform as expected, BYU could be one of the most exciting teams to watch next year. The future has never looked better for Cougar fans.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, and baseball!
