NBA Draft 2026: Wizards select teen sensation AJ Dybantsa with No. 1 pick

The Washington Wizards selected Anicet "AJ" Dybantsa Jr. with the first overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. The 19-year-old forward, who stands 6ft 9in, joins the NBA after one season of college basketball at Brigham Young University, where he averaged 25.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists. Dybantsa also led the United States to victory in the 2025 FIBA Under-19 World Cup, earning MVP honors. The Utah Jazz chose Darryn Peterson, a 6ft 6in guard from the University of Kansas, with the second pick, and the Memphis Grizzlies selected Cameron Boozer third overall.

The Washington Wizards hold the No. 1 pick in the NBA draft, a significant event occurring amidst a busy June in the league. Potential top selections include freshmen AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, and Cameron Boozer. This draft follows the New York Knicks' first championship win since 1973 and a major trade sending Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Miami Heat. The Wizards, who haven't won a title since 1978, are looking to their top pick to help them become contenders. Dybantsa, Peterson, and Boozer are highlighted as the primary options, each with distinct college performances and potential question marks.