On-campus BYU student, AJ Dybantsa, Grabs Multi-Million-Dollar Agreement with Fanatics Brand
Fanatics, a leading sports e-commerce giant, has announced a significant new ambassador in the form of AJ Dybantsa, a highly-tipped NBA draft prospect for 2026. This partnership marks a major milestone for Fanatics, as it is reported to be one of their most substantial name, image, and likeness (NIL) contracts ever.
Dybantsa, who is considered the potential No. 1 overall draft pick, has already signed a multiyear deal with Fanatics Collectibles. As part of the agreement, he will provide autographs, inscriptions, and game-used jerseys. The partnership will extend beyond his expected one season in Provo before he declares for the draft, and Dybantsa will be included in various brand marketing campaigns.
The exclusive partnership with Dybantsa begins immediately and will be centered around Fanatics-owned Topps trading cards and other items. He will also be featured in several products from Fanatics' Bowman University line. The sides are hopeful that the relationship will have a smoother transition from college to pro than that of Marvin Harrison Jr., who was sued by Fanatics in 2024 for breach of contract. Their legal saga settled in March 2025.
Dybantsa's endorsement portfolio already includes renowned brands such as Red Bull and Nike. However, as of now, there are no publicly announced brands or companies that have partnered with him for NIL deals. All NIL deals over $600 for Dybantsa must be reported and go through Deloitte's national clearinghouse for review.
It's worth noting that Dybantsa is one of college basketball's top earners, reportedly receiving over $6 million to play for BYU. This latest deal with Fanatics is further evidence of his market value. The agreement is worth eight figures, making it a substantial addition to his income.
Dybantsa is one of the last high school star athletes of the pre-House settlement era, which has seen significant changes in the way college athletes can profit from their name, image, and likeness. This partnership with Fanatics underscores the growing trend of these lucrative deals for top college athletes.
The convoluted dispute between Marvin Harrison Jr. and Fanatics left him as the only 2024 first-round pick not to have his jersey available for sale. With Dybantsa now on board, Fanatics can look forward to a smoother and more fruitful partnership. Dybantsa's ambassadorship with Fanatics also marks the sports e-commerce giant's expansion of its exclusive collectible partnerships with dozens of athletes.
