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AJ Dybantsa joins Wizards as No. 1 overall pick in 2026 NBA Draft

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 2, 2026, 4:30 AM

Last updated Oct 2, 2026

AJ Dybantsa joins Wizards as No. 1 overall pick in 2026 NBA Draft

Summary

AJ Dybantsa, the first overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, is set to begin his rookie season with the Washington Wizards. Dybantsa, a former BYU standout, expressed excitement about learning from established players like Khris Middleton and Trae Young. He signed a four-year contract worth $66.9 million, with $30.2 million guaranteed. Dybantsa aims to balance his professional career with completing his college degree, marking a significant step for both him and BYU's basketball program. His arrival coincides with the hiring of Patrick Ewing as an assistant coach for the Wizards.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Dybantsa is the highest-drafted player in BYU history.
•He will earn $14.7 million in his first season.
•The signing includes team options for the final two contract years.
•Dybantsa was a consensus first-team All-American last season.
•Patrick Ewing joins the Wizards as an assistant coach.

Latest Updates

4:30 AMYahoo Sports — Former BYU basketball great AJ Dybantsa ‘super blessed’ to be a Washington Wizard

What they're saying

"
The top overall pick embraces his rookie season in D.C., trading collegiate stardom for a developmental masterclass alongside veteran icons while carrying the torch for BYU’s basketball legacy.
— Yahoo Sports

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