Washington Wizards and Utah Jazz shine in 2026 NBA Draft

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 24, 2026, 5:38 AM

Last updated Jun 24, 2026

Washington Wizards and Utah Jazz shine in 2026 NBA Draft
Summary

The 2026 NBA Draft showcased a talented group of prospects on June 23, as the Washington Wizards selected AJ Dybantsa with the first overall pick. Dybantsa, described as a high-level athlete, aims to revitalize the Wizards' franchise alongside recent acquisitions like Trae Young and Anthony Davis. The Utah Jazz followed by choosing Kansas guard Darryn Peterson at No. 2, a player many consider the top perimeter prospect in the draft. Both teams are looking to make significant improvements after recent struggles, with new prospects expected to play crucial roles in their upcoming seasons.

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By the Numbers
  • AJ Dybantsa selected first overall by Washington Wizards
  • Darryn Peterson chosen second overall by Utah Jazz
  • Wizards look to rebuild with Dybantsa and Trae Young
  • Jazz aim to improve offensive efficiency with Peterson
  • Both teams shift focus from rebuilding to competing
Latest Updates
  • 5:50 AMYahoo Sports2026 NBA Draft Day 1 Winners and Losers: Bucks Usher in New Era, Michigan Trio Goes In Lottery, More
  • 5:38 AMYahoo SportsNBA Draft winners and losers: Loads of talent, the promise of youth, and, oh, those Michigan men
What they're saying
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After an extremely eventful night filled with potential franchise-altering picks, multi-team trades, and several suspenseful moments, round one of the 2026 NBA Draft is officially in the books. As the dust continues to settle, let’s break down the biggest winners and losers of the night.

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What follows is a stab at a first draft of history — a thumbnail sketch of who had a pretty good first night of the 2026 draft, and who might wind up looking back at the evening wistfully, and perhaps with some regret.

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