Wizards prepare for rookie AJ Dybantsa ahead of 2026-27 season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 1, 2026, 7:08 PM
Last updated Sep 1, 2026

The Washington Wizards drafted AJ Dybantsa with the first overall pick in the 2026 NBA draft. Following a standout freshman season at BYU, the 19-year-old averaged 25.5 points and 6.8 rebounds per game. He later competed in the NBA Summer League, recording 25 points per contest over two appearances. Dybantsa, whose full name is Anicet Dybantsa Jr., has established the AJ Dybantsa Foundation to support educational initiatives in Boston, Jamaica, and the Republic of Congo. The rookie is expected to report to training camp later this month as the team seeks to return to the playoffs.
- •AJ Dybantsa was the first overall pick in the 2026 NBA draft.
- •He broke 19 freshman program records during his time at BYU.
- •Dybantsa averaged 25 points per game during the NBA Summer League.
- •The rookie maintains an academic focus and plans to finish his degree online.
- •Training camp for the 2026-27 season begins later this month.
- 7:08 PMYahoo Sports — 5 fun facts: Get to know Wizards' AJ Dybantsa ahead of 2026-27 season
"As the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA draft, AJ Dybantsa joins the Wizards following a historic freshman campaign last season at BYU.
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