AJ Dybantsa vs Darryn Peterson: The Early Debate for the 2026 NBA Draft
Anwar Stetson
The 2025 NBA Draft ended with hype and excitement, particularly around number one overall pick Cooper Flagg. But buzz for the 2026 draft is already bubbling, as the competition between prep stars AJ Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson could reach a fever pitch rivaling 2003’s debate between LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony.
While LeBron was seen as a can’t-miss, generational prospect, Carmelo won the nation over by commanding the Syracuse Orange to a National Championship as a freshman. Dybantsa, like James, is making the most headlines, but Peterson isn’t far behind, and a strong freshman season could narrow the gap between the two insanely talented athletes.
Can’t Teach Size: For a star that can bring the ball up the court and play off-ball, Dybantsa takes the cake when it comes to physical potential. Check their attributes below.
Rock Chalk:
“Darryn’s the best player we’ve recruited since we’ve been here. He’s a special talent.” That high praise comes from two-time NCAA champion and coaching legend Bill Self. Peterson committed to Kansas in November and will have the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of some of the greatest Jayhawks of all time, like Paul Pierce, Joel Embiid, Wilt Chamberlain, Nick Collison, and Danny Manning.
Dybantsa, a graduate of Utah Prep, will play for BYU. The Cougars are known for football, and don’t have much hoops history. Dybantsa is their highest-rated recruit ever. Peterson could make a huge statement this year by dominating for a brand that has represented the hardwood at the highest level for nearly a century.
Dybantsa’s Utah Prep and Peterson’s Prolific Prep actually faced off in February and December, with Peterson and the Crew emerging victorious in both matchups. His team had a better record and went undefeated in league play. Peterson isn’t afraid of the bright lights or the biggest stage, and his stats back him up. Peterson had an astounding 61 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 3 steals in the second contest, while Dybantsa countered with 49 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists and 1 steal.
Peterson also wins the tale of the tape when it comes to all-around on-the-court production. Here are their senior year stats.
If Dybantsa’s college season at BYU involves him in a productive point-forward role, the physical intangibles will be too much for any NBA team to pass up on. But Darryn Peterson is a dawg and a leader. His all-around game, ability to drive and score in traffic, create his own shot, and involve his teammates will help him tremendously at a much bigger, more storied program.
NBA scouts will be foaming at the mouth to get a chance to see these two stellar athletes in person, hoping the ping-pong balls land in their favor in next year’s lottery.