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Wizards Grab No.1, Dybantsa Eyes Franchise Future

ESPN NBA •
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Washington’s dramatic fall to 26‑of‑27 losses paid off as the Wizards secured the first pick in the 2026 draft, positioning them to acquire a franchise‑level talent after adding Trae Young and Anthony Davis.

The top spot falls to freshman AJ Dybantsa of BYU, who led Division I in scoring and impressed with his size and two‑way play. His physicality and growth potential make him a natural fit for Washington’s young wing corps.

Utah, Memphis, Chicago, and the Clippers round out the top four, each moving to higher selections after late‑season losses. The Jazz now have a chance to pair Darryn Peterson with new acquisition Jaren Jackson Jr., while the Grizzlies and Bulls eye foundational big‑men to anchor rebuilding projects.

With the draft order set, teams will convene in Chicago for the combine, and college players face a May 27 deadline to decide on entering the NBA. The draft’s outcome will shape each franchise’s trajectory for the next decade.