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2026 Wizards Grab No. 1 Pick, Worst Record Wins Lottery

5/11/2026

28 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Washington Wizards won the 2026 draft lottery, becoming the worst-record team to claim the No. 1 pick under flattened odds.
The Wizards entered the May 10, 2026 lottery with a 14 % chance after a 17-65 season.
Utah Jazz second, Memphis Grizzlies third, Chicago Bulls fourth, and a trade sent pick to the Los Angeles Clippers.
Commissioner Adam Silver said tanking has worsened and that owners will vote on a lottery format on May 28.

History

Historical Context

On June 18 1985 the NBA held its first lottery draft, giving each of seven non-playoff teams a 14.3% chance at the top pick; the New York Knicks drew the envelope and selected Patrick Ewing. Owners will vote on a new lottery format on May 28 2026, a change that could reshape odds for clubs such as the Utah Jazz.

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Story summary

The Washington Wizards won the 2026 draft lottery, becoming the worst-record team to claim the No. 1 pick under flattened odds.
The Wizards entered the May 10, 2026 lottery with a 14 % chance after a 17-65 season.
Utah Jazz second, Memphis Grizzlies third, Chicago Bulls fourth, and a trade sent pick to the Los Angeles Clippers.
Commissioner Adam Silver said tanking has worsened and that owners will vote on a lottery format on May 28.

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