AJ Dybantsa vs Cooper Flagg: Who’s the better basketball player?

Cooper Flagg entered the collegiate basketball circuit as the top prospect in the 2024 class, while AJ Dybantsa is slated to make the same next year. While the two tourneyed high school waters while being the best players, Flagg has caught global attention with his Select Team stint against Team USA.

Meanwhile, AJ Dybantsa’s offensive acumen and defensive length already make him a favorite for the 2026 NBA draft. Considering that, let’s have a look at who is a better player among the two top prospects.

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Who is a better player between Cooper Flagg and AJ Dybantsa

Hoophall Classic faceoff between Flagg and Dybantsa

Hoophall Classic is a prestigious checkpoint among superstar players, with Kevin Durant, Anthony Davis, Jayson Tatum, Kyrie Irving and others having played on its hardwood.

The two stars played every minute for their teams as Cooper Flagg controlled the game early to mount 15 points, 10 rebounds and five blocks. While it took him some time, Dybantsa gave Flagg a taste of his own medicine with three triples and finding his shots easily late on. He finished with 21 points, five rebounds and four assists.

Dybantsa's Prolific Prep mounted a comeback in the second half, but a game-seasling steal by Flagg put Montverde on the ascendancy. Both players were given the top berth in the Hoophall's Elite Player table in their respective classes.

MAIT (Montverde Academy Invitations Tournament) Finals

High school fans got the game of the year when Cooper Flagg and AJ Dybantsa’s schools made it to the MAIT Championship’s finale in January this year.

The home team escaped with a 78-72 thriller, but the skillset of the two stars was on full display. Flagg initiated an early stop with his fearless defense, be it on the perimeter or under the basket.

Dybantsa hit the pedal with his first quick step, constantly bringing Prolific Prep to contention and nearly winning the game, posting18 points, while Flagg scored 19.

Nike Hoop Summit - Cooper Flagg and AJ Dybantsa with different rosters

Dybantsa and Cooper Flagg were among the 24 best prospects in the Nike Hopp Summit in April 2024.

The Duke commit was aided by Ace Bailey, who for a change, was not competing with him for the top spot. The two represented Team USA, while AJ Dybantsa represented the Republic of Congo and Jamaica for the World Team. He was also one of the youngest players in the international circuit.

The 2025 class recruit scored 21 points, putting his versatile touch on display and showcasing an improved sense of shot selection. Despite being on a new roster, he was vocal and consistently present on both ends of the court.

Cooper Flagg put his all-around ability on feature with paint protection, passing and off-the-dribble scoring. While he didn't get to lead the team in the initial half, he took the responsibility in the second half to post 19 points and 11 rebounds as Team USA beat Team World 98-75.