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Wizards Draft AJ Dybantsa No. 1, First BYU Top Pick

6/24/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Washington Wizards selected AJ Dybantsa with the No. 1 overall pick at the 2026 NBA Draft in Brooklyn.
Dybantsa became the first BYU player ever taken No. 1 and entered the draft after averaging 25.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists and winning the Julius Erving Award.
The Wizards, after a 17-65 2025-26 season, hope the pick will accelerate a rebuild built around Trae Young and newly acquired Anthony Davis.

History

Historical Context

Washington Wizards, who have secured the NBA’s first overall pick a record seven times (including 2026), echo the 2003 draft when high-school phenom LeBron James was chosen No. 1 by the Cleveland Cavaliers and earned Rookie of the Year. Both moments illustrate how top picks can reshape team fortunes and underscore the lasting impact of early-entry talent on league dynamics.

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Story summary

The Washington Wizards selected AJ Dybantsa with the No. 1 overall pick at the 2026 NBA Draft in Brooklyn.
Dybantsa became the first BYU player ever taken No. 1 and entered the draft after averaging 25.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists and winning the Julius Erving Award.
The Wizards, after a 17-65 2025-26 season, hope the pick will accelerate a rebuild built around Trae Young and newly acquired Anthony Davis.

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