On Tuesday night, the 2026 NBA draft crowned AJ Dybantsa as the first overall pick. The Washington Wizards snatched the forward over Kansas guard Darryn Peterson and Duke forward Cameron Boozer, who slid to Utah Jazz and Memphis Grizzlies at second and third spots. Dybantsa’s selection signals a new era for the franchise ahead of the NBA future.

Dybantsa, 6ft 9in and 217lbs, led the nation in scoring during his lone season at Brigham Young University with an average of 25.5 points. A 43‑point outing shattered BYU’s freshman record and made him the first of eight straight college freshmen taken early in the draft. His play echoes a high‑flyer style reminiscent of Kevin Durant in the NBA arena.

The Wizards’ front office, led by GM Will Dawkins, praised Dybantsa’s confidence and community work, noting his foundation in Massachusetts, Jamaica and Africa. Dybantsa, who wears Jamaican and Congolese flag pins, said the NBA dream has driven him since ninth grade. His arrival promises a competitive lift for Washington as they seek their first title since 2014 in the season.