AJ Dybantsa, a highly-regarded five-star junior guard from Prolific Prep in Napa Valley, has recently announced via his official X account that he has been presented with an offer from the USC Trojans to join their ranks in the future. As the current No. 1 prospect in his draft class, Dybantsa’s potential impact on the team has garnered significant attention from basketball enthusiasts.
In his announcement, Dybantsa expressed his gratitude for the offer, stating, “After speaking to Coach Musselman, I’m blessed to receive an offer from the University of Southern California! Go Trojans❤️💛.” This development has sparked excitement among USC fans and has raised anticipation for the possibility of Dybantsa donning the Cardinal and Gold jersey in the future.
Both Eric Musselman and the USC basketball programme are seeking to turn a new leaf following their respective challenging seasons. Musselman’s Arkansas Razorbacks concluded the 2023-24 season with a 16-17 record, marking the first time in his tenure that they failed to secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament. Similarly, the Trojans, under the leadership of Andy Enfield, posted a 15-18 record, falling short of a Big Dance appearance.
During a visit to the Trojans last October, Dybantsa had the opportunity to familiarise himself with the team and their playing style. Standing at 6-foot-9, his proficiency in scoring during transitions and drives has earned acclaim from basketball enthusiasts. In a statement following his initial visit, Dybantsa shared, “They said that if I go there that I will low-key run the show. I can be the one-guard, two-guard… I can run the team,” reflecting his eagerness to contribute to the team’s success.
Unsurprisingly, Dybantsa has also received offers from other esteemed collegiate basketball programmes, including Musselman’s former team, currently led by ex-Kentucky coach John Calipari, as well as LSU, Auburn, North Carolina, Michigan, Cal, Florida State, Kansas, Baylor, Duke, and Oregon.
In light of the upcoming NBA Draft, there is further buzz surrounding USC basketball as Isaiah Collier, a prospect from the team, has recently engaged in interviews with a late lottery team. This development underscores the potential for USC to be a fertile ground for producing talented individuals capable of making a significant impact at the professional level.
With the offer extended to Dybantsa, USC is positioning itself as a compelling destination for emerging basketball talents, signalling the university’s commitment to fostering a competitive and successful basketball programme. As the ongoing recruitment process unfolds, the USC Trojans basketball community eagerly anticipates witnessing the next generation of players contribute to the team’s future triumphs.