How AJ Dybantsa’s Rise Continues the Church’s Deep Connection with Basketball

AJ Dybantsa’s decision to play basketball at BYU marks a significant moment in college basketball history. As the nation’s top recruit, AJ passed over traditional powerhouse programs like North Carolina and Kansas. BYU’s appeal stemmed from coach Kevin Young’s NBA-style play, parental approval, and a lucrative NIL deal reportedly worth millions.

This groundbreaking choice sparked wider interest beyond sports circles, capturing the attention of Barbara Jones Brown, director of Signature Books in Salt Lake City. Recognizing the cultural importance, Barbara initiated a project to explore how AJ’s story intersects with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and its profound connection to basketball.

Basketball’s Deep Roots in LDS Culture

Historically, basketball courts have been a staple in every LDS church building nationwide. Co-author Matthew Bowman, a historian and professor, emphasizes basketball as an expression of core church values, such as community and cooperation. “What other church can say they have a basketball court in every building?” Bowman remarked, highlighting the unique relationship between the sport and the church.

The book, Game Changers: AJ Dybantsa, BYU and the Struggle for the Soul of Basketball, co-written by Bowman and fellow basketball enthusiast Wayne LeCheminant, delves into this narrative. They trace college basketball’s evolution alongside BYU’s own storied basketball history, including legends like Mel Hutchins and Jimmer Fredette, framing AJ’s arrival as the newest chapter.

A Fast-Tracked Publication

Given AJ’s likely one-and-done status — expected to enter the NBA draft after a single season — the team faced tight months to publish before the basketball season began. Barbara’s urgency led her to enlist Bowman, who then brought on LeCheminant to complete the 243-page book within the deadline.

The book examines the NCAA’s changing landscape, the rise of NIL deals, and BYU’s place as a church-affiliated basketball powerhouse. It sheds light on how AJ’s signing symbolizes a convergence of athletic, religious, and commercial interests.

Behind the Scenes of the Endorsements

AJ’s endorsement portfolio includes major brands like Nike and Red Bull, demonstrating how NIL agreements have transformed athlete recruitment. Signature Books also secured rights to AJ’s name and likeness for the publication’s cover through negotiations with his family and agent Leonard Armato.

Barbara highlighted the professionalism and openness of AJ’s camp. “Ace, AJ’s father, is a really good guy,” she said, dispelling stereotypes about elite athletes’ entourages. The financial terms of the deal remain undisclosed but are reportedly small compared to AJ’s broader earnings.

AJ’s Impact Beyond the Court

At a book launch event in Salt Lake City, Barbara remembered telling AJ, “I know you’re going to make history at BYU,” to which he responded with a bright smile before returning to his phone like any typical teenager. This moment captures AJ’s grounded personality amid soaring expectations.

Game Changers is now available in print and audio, with narration by former Utah Jazz star Thurl Bailey. The book offers an insightful look into the unique interplay between AJ Dybantsa’s rise, BYU’s basketball legacy, and the church’s longstanding cultural embrace of basketball.

Readers and fans of the sport will find the story an essential chapter in understanding how basketball serves as a bridge between faith, community, and modern sports business in America.