AJ Dybantsa declares intention for Team USA in LA 2028 games, says he is okay with "Jayson Tatum role"

AJ Dybantsa, the No. 1 ranked player in the 2025 class, has set his sights high as he prepares for a future in the game. At 17 years old, Dybantsa is one of the most sought-after players in the nation, with plenty of college programs interested in the rising star.

While university is the most likely next step, Dybantsa is also keen to represent Team USA at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

During an episode of "Podcast P with Paul George," which was released on Monday, Dybantsa sat down to discuss a range of topics with the host of the show. When the Philadelphia 76ers guard asked him if his aim was to play for the USA at the 2028 Olympics, Dybantsa answered in the affirmative.

"Yes, no question. Hopefully, I will be two years in the league. Then winning a gold medal, that would be amazing," said Dybantsa. (54:45)

The Massachusetts native was not greedy, however. He claimed that he was not worried about his role, or playing time and that he simply wants to be a part of the team.

"I told people too, I was like, 'I don't care if I am the last dude on the bench'. I need me a gold. I do not care, I'll clap," said Dybantsa.

When George pushed him on whether he would be willing to play a limited role like Jayson Tatum did at the Paris Olympics, Dybantsa confirmed he would have no issues with that position.

"I'll do it. And he handled it well," added Dybantsa.

Jayson Tatum was a member of the 12-man USA men's national team roster that won gold at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. Despite coming off an incredible NBA season where he guided the Boston Celtics to a championship, the five-time All-Star saw limited playing time at the competition. Tatum appeared in just four games and played a total of only 71 minutes.

AJ Dybantsa speaks of his love for watching film and learning from NBA players

Brockton's AJ Dybantsa, the nation's top-ranked basketball recruit in the 2025 class, donated Nike gear to students at Trinity Catholic Academy in Brockton. Photo Credit: Imagn

At 6-foot-9 and 210 pounds, AJ Dybantsa is an imposing figure on the court. He is regarded as an elite scorer and has impressed scouts with his speed, movement and understanding of the game.

The 17-year-old is a student of basketball and is consistently looking for ways to develop and evolve his skills. Speaking with Paul George, he opened up about watching film and learning from some of the game's top players.

"Me, I am big film guy, so I watch a lot of film. A lot of different players that I think I can take parts of their game from," said Dybantsa.

The 17-year-old had the chance to work out with George during the offseason and spoke of his admiration for the NBA star's style of play, especially considering the two play the same position.

He also mentioned Chris Paul as a player he has studied, and highlighted the point guard's ability to manipulate the game in different ways.