BYU Faces Major Roster Shakeup as AJ Dybantsa, Robert Wright III Move Toward Next Steps

BYU’s promising 2025–26 season ended earlier than expected with a 79-71 first-round loss to Texas in the NCAA Tournament. Despite entering March Madness as the No. 6 seed, the Cougars were unable to advance, falling short of a deeper postseason run.

The loss was especially significant given the presence of freshman star AJ Dybantsa, whose standout season had fueled high expectations for the program. Widely regarded as one of the most talented players in college basketball, his individual success was not enough to carry BYU past the opening round.

Dybantsa’s performance throughout the year positioned him as a projected top pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, with some analysts believing he could be selected first overall. His departure now appears increasingly likely as he transitions to the professional level.

As BYU reflects on an early tournament exit, the program is also preparing for significant roster turnover heading into the offseason.

1. Dybantsa’s Rise And NBA Projection

AJ Dybantsa’s freshman season at BYU established him as one of the most productive and dynamic players in college basketball. He averaged 25.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.1 steals per game, consistently producing at an elite level. His impact extended into postseason play, where he broke Kevin Durant’s Big 12 Tournament scoring record, further elevating his national profile. Performances like those solidified his reputation as a potential franchise-changing talent at the next level. Dybantsa’s blend of scoring ability, athleticism, and versatility has placed him firmly in the conversation for the No. 1 overall selection in the NBA Draft. If selected first, he would become the highest-drafted player in BYU history. While his college career may have been brief, his production and trajectory suggest an immediate transition into a major role at the professional level.

2. Robert Wright III Enters Transfer Portal

In addition to Dybantsa’s expected departure, BYU is also set to lose another key contributor. According to reports from Field of 68’s Jeff Goodman, guard Robert Wright III plans to enter the NCAA transfer portal. Wright served as a primary backcourt partner alongside Dybantsa, playing a crucial role in BYU’s offensive structure. He averaged 18.1 points, 3.5 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 1.2 steals per game during the season. His strong play earned him All-Big 12 Third Team honors, highlighting his importance within the conference and his consistent production throughout the year. Together, Wright and Dybantsa formed one of the more productive duos in college basketball. If he transfers, Wright would be moving to his third program in three seasons, having previously spent his freshman year at Baylor, where he averaged 11.5 points and 4.2 assists per game.

3. Transfer Market And Broader Implications

Wright’s decision places him among a growing list of high-profile players entering the transfer portal this offseason. His name joins others such as Flory Bidunga of Kansas, Terrence Brown of Utah, Khani Rooths of Louisville, and Kayden Edwards of TCU. While frequent transfers can draw scrutiny, modern college basketball has increasingly normalized player movement as athletes seek expanded roles, better fits, or new opportunities. Wright’s experience reflects that broader trend. Some analysts point to recent examples of successful transfers as justification for making such moves, including Michigan’s Elliott Cadeau, who played a key role in a national championship run and earned Most Outstanding Player honors in the NCAA Tournament. For BYU, the combined departures of Dybantsa and Wright mark a significant turning point, forcing the program to rebuild key portions of its roster while evaluating its next competitive core.