Wizards Select Teen Sensation AJ Dybantsa With No. 1 Pick in NBA Draft

Washington Wizards Select Anicet “AJ” Dybantsa Jr. With First Overall Pick in 2026 NBA Draft

The Washington Wizards have selected Anicet “AJ” Dybantsa Jr., a 19-year-old forward, with the first overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. Dybantsa, who stands at 6ft 8in (2.03m), played one season of college basketball for Brigham Young University Cougars.

Dybantsa averaged 25.5 points in 35 starts during the 2025-26 season, along with 6.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists. He also led the United States to the 2025 FIBA Under-19 World Cup, where he was named Most Valuable Player.

Dybantsa expressed his gratitude for being selected by the Wizards, stating that it is a testament to his hard work and discipline. The Utah Jazz chose University of Kansas prospect Darryn Peterson with the second pick, while the Memphis Grizzlies selected Cameron Boozer, the son of two-time NBA All-Star Carlos Boozer.

Boozer, who stands at 6ft 9in (2.06m), played one season for Duke University and averaged 22.5 points in 38 starts. He suffered multiple fractures around his right eye during a game against the University of Connecticut in March.

The Memphis Grizzlies’ selection of Boozer was met with emotion, as he credited his family for their support throughout his career. The Wizards’ selection of Dybantsa marks the beginning of his NBA journey, which is expected to be filled with hard work and dedication.

Source: Al Jazeera