AJ Dybantsa and his recruitment have garnered significant attention from BYU fans, and rightly so. However, Xavion Staton, a standout big man from Las Vegas, should not be overlooked. If Staton commits to BYU, he would rank among the most significant recruits in the program’s history.
At 7 feet tall, Staton is currently rated the #23 prospect in the nation by 247 Sports and has a strong chance of earning a spot as a McDonald’s All-American. He is frequently recognized as the best rim protector in his class, with a rapidly enhancing offensive game. One scout likened him to DeAndre Jordan due to his ability to rim run, excel in the pick-and-roll, and protect the basket. Kevin Young has emphasized the need for rim-running fives, and Xavion fits this description perfectly. He is projected to be an NBA player and will benefit whichever program he joins for several years.
Staton has narrowed his choices down to a final four: UNLV, Michigan, Stanford, and BYU. He plans to visit BYU officially on the weekend of November 2, with a commitment announcement scheduled for the evening of November 4, shortly after his visit. The early signing period for college basketball starts on November 13.
Here’s what Xavion shared with me today about his relationship with BYU.
“BYU has a great development standpoint on things with Coach Burgess being the big development coach, as well as their style of play and how I fit into their program. I personally like their coaching staff and their facilities and what they have to offer. I am mainly in contact with Coaches Burgess, Young, Dunson, and Linehan. I hear from at least 2 of them a week.”
Xavion Staton would be an incredible pickup for BYU and a foundational player they could develop for years. Should he join BYU, he would receive substantial minutes immediately alongside Keba Keita at the 5 position, and he would secure the starting center role once Keba graduates.
While BYU has had both tall and athletic centers, it’s rare to find a player who possesses both attributes. Xavion would be a vital addition to the recruiting class for any school he chooses and would serve as a cornerstone for BYU as they aim to compete on a national level.
According to 247’s composite rankings, Xavion would be the highest-rated recruit in BYU history, surpassing previous recruits like Egor Demin, who never received a composite rating due to varying evaluations from recruiting services. I am optimistic about BYU’s position with Xavion, even though he still has official visits planned with UNLV, Stanford, and BYU, having already visited Michigan. If I had to identify favorites, BYU and his hometown UNLV appear to be the most likely destinations among his final four schools.
Even if BYU doesn’t secure AJ Dybantsa, landing Xavion would be a remarkable highlight in their recruiting class. If BYU manages to recruit both AJ and Xavion, the excitement for next offseason would far exceed previous years.
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