Top 2026 NBA Draft prospect eyeing historic NIL offers

The Field of 68 is widely regarded as one of the top online college basketball networks. They recently delved into the recruitment of the #1 player in the 2025 class, AJ Dybantsa. During a panel discussion featuring John Fanta, Jeff Goodman, Terrence Oglesby, and Rob Dauster, the conversation centered around the 6’9″ wing, who is not only the top player in the 2025 recruiting class but is also being hailed as a future #1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.

Dybantsa, who currently plays for Utah Prep, has quickly garnered attention as one of the most complete prospects to come along in recent years. Standing at 6’9″ 210 pounds, his mobility on both ends of the court sets him apart. His movement is fluid, and he combines elite defensive instincts with a lethal offensive arsenal. Whether it’s his smooth jumper from multiple spots on the floor or his ability to create mismatches, it’s easy to see why top college programs and NBA scouts are already eyeing his future. AJ Dybantsa is a nightmare for defenders and a perfect fit for today’s positionless style of play.

The NIL numbers for the future NBA draft pick

The discussion, however, wasn’t about AJ Dybantsa’s skillset. The modern era of college basketball has shifted, and with Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL), recruiting has turned into a financial arms race. The top players are no longer just coveted for their talent, they’re also commanding massive paydays. As Goodman pointed out, the numbers surrounding Dybantsa’s recruitment are staggering. “Somewhere in the $7-9 million range,” Goodman said, a figure that dwarfs the $2 million transfer deals seen during this past offseason.

The latest on AJ Dybantsa?

“He’s gonna get a ton of money. The numbers I’ve heard are numbers I never thought I’d hear. Somewhere in the $7-9 million range is what I’m hearing right now. That number is gonna be HEFTY” – @GoodmanHoops 😳

We are LIVE:https://t.co/udTBr2axF3 pic.twitter.com/0Eh7vsIKQY

— The Field of 68 (@TheFieldOf68) October 10, 2024

The changing dynamics of college basketball

The financial component of recruiting has introduced a new dynamic in the sport. Gone are the days when players solely chose schools based on tradition, coaching, or playing style. Now, with the ability to legally secure major NIL deals, the best high school prospects are essentially entering a bidding war. And for someone like AJ Dybantsa, the stakes and the numbers are higher than ever.

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