The Washington Wizards selected BYU freshman forward Anicet “AJ” Dybantsa Jr. with the first overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft on Tuesday night in New York. At 19 years old and standing 6-foot-9, Dybantsa is entering the league after a standout freshman season in which he led the nation in scoring, averaging 25.5 points per game along with 6.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists. His performance included a record-breaking 43-point game, the highest scoring output by a freshman in BYU history.
Dybantsa, who played 35 games for the Cougars last season, was also recognized internationally as the Most Valuable Player at the 2025 FIBA Under-19 World Cup, further highlighting his rapid rise through youth basketball ranks. The young forward, who asked to be addressed by his full name, Anicet Dybantsa Jr., to honor his father, expressed both humility and determination in response to the selection. “It’s a stepping stone,” he said, emphasizing the hard work and sacrifices behind his journey.
The Wizards’ choice marks the third time they have had the top overall pick since the NBA adopted the common draft format in 1966—the previous selections being Kwame Brown in 2001 and John Wall in 2010. With the franchise seeking to rebuild after missing the playoffs for five consecutive seasons and not advancing beyond the first round since 2017, Dybantsa’s arrival brings renewed hope. Washington’s roster also includes established but frequently injured stars such as Trae Young, who recently declined his player option but is expected to sign a long-term extension, and Anthony Davis, whose future remains uncertain due to health concerns.
Dybantsa becomes the 14th one-and-done freshman to be taken first overall since 2010 and the first of eight freshmen selected in the opening eight picks of this draft, tying a record from the previous year. He was chosen over notable prospects such as Darryn Peterson, a 6-foot-6 guard from Kansas picked second by the Utah Jazz, who averaged 20.2 points but struggled with injuries and illness. Also selected early were Cameron Boozer, the 2026 National College Player of the Year from Duke, who went third to Memphis, and Caleb Wilson from North Carolina, chosen fourth by Chicago.
The top five picks largely followed pre-draft expectations, though some analysts debated between Dybantsa’s scoring dominance and Peterson’s talent floor. Following these, the Los Angeles Clippers acquired the fifth pick to select Illinois guard Keaton Wagler, while the Brooklyn Nets, Sacramento Kings, Atlanta Hawks, and Dallas Mavericks rounded out the top nine with high-scoring guards and forwards. Dallas’s pick Morez Johnson Jr., a Michigan forward, was reunited with former coach Dusty May, who recently joined the Mavericks’ staff.
The Wizards hope that Dybantsa’s versatility as a scorer and defender, coupled with his work ethic, will help reverse their fortunes. The forward has stated his willingness to adapt to the team’s needs and aims to develop a reliable outside shot while guarding opposing top players. As the franchise looks to build around its young core, Dybantsa’s arrival represents a significant step in their rebuilding process.