Utah Prep has become a popular destination for some of the country’s finest prospects seeking to show off their abilities. Xavion Staton and JJ Mandaquit, four-star Team USA gold medalists, are both in the transfer portal. However, you need look no further than AJ Dybantsa, this year’s BYU basketball superstar, unanimous first-team All-American, and possible number-one pick in the next NBA Draft.
Anthony Felesi is the latest exciting talent to emerge from Utah Prep Academy in Hurricane, Southern Utah, who drew significant interest from BYU basketball a year ago before committing to Pittsburgh in the ACC.
However, Felesi is back on the market, and Kevin Young and his crew will pounce at the opportunity to convince him to reconsider Provo.
During his initial recruitment period, Felesi visited BYU, as well as San Diego State, USC, and, of course, Pitt. A 6’5 guard who prides himself on his aggressive play style, outstanding athleticism, and nearly 7-foot wingspan to defend like a maniac — something the Cougars desperately lacked last season.
Nonetheless, Felesi’s talent set requires some refinement; he falls far short of a dependable 3-point shooter, despite the fact that he hits his free throws at a decent pace. As a result, he would most likely need a few years of collegiate development before considering the NBA Draft.
Enter: Kevin Young and his NBA Academy, located in Provo, Utah. That’s the basic sales pitch for Felesi, who has witnessed firsthand what a BYU education can do for the NBA prospects of an AJ Dybantsa, who is expected to be the number one selection this summer, or Egor Demin, who jumped up to the eighth overall choice after many predicted he might slip out of the lottery entirely.
BYU supporters will be keeping an eye on Felesi’s second recruiting cycle as Kevin Young tries to correct the shortcomings of a season ago by emphasizing depth and defensive potential, something the previous team lacked.
