AJ Dybantsa vs. Darryn Peterson: Who’s the better high school hooper?

AJ Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson are two of the top recruits in the Class of 2025. Only a few names shine as bright as Dybantsa and Peterson when it comes to high school basketball. Both players are elite; however, their styles and achievements highlight different strengths.

Now, the two former teammates are going to lock horns as Utah Prep (Hurricane, UT) takes on Prolific Prep (Napa, CA) on Dec. 8.

The highly-anticipated clash pits two of the best high school basketball talents against each other. Let's take a look at how the two compare on paper.

AJ Dybantsa

AJ Dybantsa, a 6-foot-9 small forward, is currently ranked as the top player in the Class of 2025, as per 247Sports. His transfer to Utah Prep for the 2024-25 season reunites him with fellow USA gold medalist JJ Mandaquit.

His outstanding freshman season, with an impressive average of 19.1 points, 9.6 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 2.5 blocks per game, earned him Massachusetts Boys' Basketball Gatorade Player of the Year.

Dybantsa continued his scoring streak after his transfer to Prolific Prep as well. During his time there, the star forward averaged 25.8 points at the 2023 Nike Peach Jam, leading all players.

Adam Finkelstein, the director of scouting (247Sports) describes Dybantsa as the best prospect in high school basketball. His efficiency extends beyond scoring, with high basketball IQ and composure under pressure.

Dybantsa’s recruitment is equally impressive. With offers from heavyweights like Duke, Kentucky and North Carolina, he has solidified himself as a top-tier prospect. He has recently narrowed the list to four programs: Alabama, BYU, Kansas and North Carolina.

Not only in high school basketball, AJ Dybantsa has stood out at international levels too. His international resume includes leading Team USA to gold at the U16 FIBA Americas Championship, where he averaged 13.8 points per game.

Darryn Peterson

Darryn Peterson, a 6-foot-5 shooting guard and five-star recruit, is ranked among the top three players in the 2025 Class, as per 247Sports. Known for his two-way game, he impacts both ends of the court. Peterson was phenomenal in his sophomore year, steering Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy to an 18–7 record.

Peterson averaged 31 points, 9.8 rebounds, 2.8 steals and 1.3 assists per game, showcasing his exceptional skill sets. He transferred to Huntington Prep in 2023, and a year later, he moved to Prolific Prep in Napa, California, where he currently plays.

Darryn Peterson's impressive high school career brought him over 23 offers, and in November 2024, the star guard committed to Kansas, securing his spot with one of college basketball’s top programs.

His international career has been equally decorated. At the 2023 U16 FIBA Americas Championship, Peterson averaged 16.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 3.3 steals per game.

Both players are a powerhouse of basketball skills and talent. Dybantsa stands out with his scoring ability and clutch leadership on the court. On the other hand, Peterson scores big with his versatility and defensive dominance.

Both players have unique skill sets, and their upcoming clash will be a feast for the eyes for hoop fans.