The 2026 NBA Draft officially ushered in a new generation of basketball stars on Tuesday night as towering teenage prospect AJ Dybantsa was selected first overall by the Washington Wizards.
The 19-year-old forward, whose full name is Anicet “AJ” Dybantsa Jr., becomes the latest top prospect entrusted with leading the Wizards’ rebuilding project after an outstanding lone season with the Brigham Young University Cougars.
Standing 6-foot-9 (2.06m), Dybantsa impressed scouts throughout the 2025-26 college season, averaging 25.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in 35 starts. His combination of size, scoring ability, and versatility made him the consensus top prospect in this year’s draft class.
His rise to the top of the draft board was further strengthened by his performances on the international stage, where he guided the United States to the 2025 FIBA Under-19 World Cup title and earned Most Valuable Player honours.
“It means a lot,” Dybantsa told ESPN moments after hearing his name called.
“Obviously, it’s just a stepping stone, and I have a lot more work to do. But it’s a testament to all my hard work and discipline and the sacrifices that I’ve made.”
The Wizards will now hope Dybantsa can become the centerpiece of a franchise searching for long-term success and a return to playoff contention.
Meanwhile, the Utah Jazz used the second overall pick to select highly rated guard Darryn Peterson from the University of Kansas.
The 6-foot-6 guard also spent just one season in college, averaging 20.2 points while establishing himself as one of the draft’s most gifted scorers. Peterson is expected to form an exciting young backcourt partnership with Keyonte George as Utah attempts to recover from a disappointing 22-60 campaign.
At number three, the Memphis Grizzlies selected national player of the year Cameron Boozer, adding another highly touted prospect to their roster.
The opening three selections highlighted a clear trend throughout the draft, with franchises placing their trust in young players who spent just one season in college before making the leap to the NBA.
For Dybantsa, however, the spotlight shines brightest. After dominating youth basketball, starring in college and leading his country to international success, the teenager now faces his biggest challenge yet: transforming potential into NBA stardom in Washington.
