BYU forward AJ Dybantsa broke the Big 12 tournament record for points by a freshman, scoring 40 points with nine rebounds and six assists to lead his No. 10-seeded Cougars past Kansas State 105-91. The 19-year-old surpassed Kevin Durant’s previous mark of 37 points set in 2007, while also tying the Big 12 tournament record for field goals made (15). Dybantsa’s performance marked his sixth 35-point game this season, tying a Big 12 record, and he became the fourth Division I freshman in 30 years to reach 40 points in a conference tournament game.

Dybantsa’s historic night came amid BYU’s Cinderella run after a season-ending knee injury to star player Richie Saunders forced the team to a 10th-place seed. Despite the Cougars’ early-round bye, Dybantsa’s 54 points created (scoring or assisting on) set a Big 12 tournament record, showcasing his playmaking versatility. Coach Kevin Young praised his “full display of skill,” calling him “the most skilled player in college basketball.” The freshman’s efforts included critical late-game plays, such as a buzzer-beating dunk and a three-point play that sealed the win.

Dybantsa, projected as a potential top-5 NBA draft pick, downplayed record-chasing: “The main goal is to get to a championship.” His 40-point effort nearly matched his career high of 43 points against Utah in January. The Cougars now face West Virginia in the second round, with Dybantsa’s workload drawing scrutiny after playing 37 minutes in the opener.

The game highlighted BYU’s resilience, as Dybantsa’s unselfish decisions—like passing to Khadim Mboup for a layup—balanced his scoring outbursts. Despite late-game tension, the Cougars’ depth shone, with Darryn Peterson and Cameron Boozer contributing to the upset. Dybantsa’s performance not only cements his draft legacy but also fuels BYU’s March Madness hopes.