AJ Dybantsa pays tribute to Terrence Clarke during NBA Draft night
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 24, 2026, 4:31 AM
Last updated Jun 24, 2026
AJ Dybantsa, selected first overall by the Washington Wizards in the 2026 NBA Draft, honored the late Terrence Clarke by wearing a 'TC5' pin. Dybantsa cited Clarke as a major influence and mentor, referring to him as his 'little brother.' Their close relationship began in their youth, training under shared coaches in the Greater Boston area. Dybantsa has consistently carried Clarke's legacy with him throughout his basketball journey, embodying the values Clarke instilled in him. The tribute drew widespread acclaim in the basketball community, reflecting Clarke's lasting impact on young players.
- •AJ Dybantsa selected first overall by the Washington Wizards.
- •Wore a 'TC5' pin in honor of Terrence Clarke.
- •Dybantsa and Clarke shared a mentor-mentee relationship since childhood.
- •Clarke tragically passed away in a car accident in 2021.
- •Tribute received praise from across the basketball community.
- 4:31 AMYahoo Sports — ’Nothing But Respect’ — NBA World Reacts to No. 1 Pick AJ Dybantsa’s ’Powerful’ Tribute to Late Kentucky Star Terrence Clarke
"AJ Dybantsa’s NBA Draft night was about more than becoming the No. 1 overall pick.
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