BYU has the potential to be a contender in college hoops this season, and I think we’re about to see plenty of the reasons why when the Cougars open the season up on Monday night in Las Vegas. I like BYU as the side in this game, and think they have to potential to run Villanova out of the gym. Kevin Young has a very deep and talented team, but AJ Dybantsa will standout as the most unique talent of the bunch.
Dybantsa grades out as an elite NBA prospect, and while he’s just a freshman, you won’t hear any of those descriptions of his game being “raw.” This kid is polished and ready to dominate college hoops, and we saw that when BYU took the floor in its scrimmages. Dybantsa debuted in an exibition game in which he finished with 30 points, seven rebounds, three assists and three steals against Nebraska. He followed it up with 18 points, eight boards, three steals and three blocks against North Carolina.
In those two exhibitions, Dybantsa showed a variety of being able to score from anywhere on the floor. He knocked down three-pointers, displayed a mid-range game, and was fearless in the paint — both finishing around the rim and attempting a combined 15 free throws. Dybantsa is a special talent, and I’m not sure this rebuilding Villanova roster has much of an answer for him.
Dybantsa has been nothing short of spectacular, and I’m expecting a dominant performance now with the spotlight on him. Look for a big scoring output from the freshman, who’s prop is set at 17.5 against Villanova. If you want to get plus-money, 20+ points at +150 is also an attractive play.
