The Washington Wizards have chosen 19-year-old forward Anicet 'A.J.' Dybantsa Jr. with the number one pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. Standing at 6ft 8in (2.03m), Dybantsa was selected after a standout season with the Brigham Young University Cougars, where he averaged 25.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists across 35 games.
Dybantsa's Journey to the NBA
Dybantsa's path to the NBA has been marked by exceptional performances. His stellar career in youth basketball culminated in leading the United States to victory at the 2025 FIBA Under-19 World Cup, where he was named Most Valuable Player. 'It means a lot,' Dybantsa told ESPN after his selection. '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.'
Other Notable Picks
The Utah Jazz selected University of Kansas guard Darryn Peterson with the second pick. Peterson, a 6ft 6in natural scorer, averaged 20.2 points in his single college season and is expected to play a key role in the Jazz's rebuilding efforts. The Memphis Grizzlies chose Cameron Boozer, son of two-time NBA All-Star Carlos Boozer, with the third pick. Boozer, who played one season at Duke University, was regarded as the most naturally gifted player in this year's draft despite suffering multiple fractures around his right eye earlier in the year.
Boozer's Family Support
Cameron Boozer expressed his gratitude to his family after being drafted. 'Honestly man, it's crazy. Just a lot of happiness and joy -- my whole life in a couple of seconds,' Boozer said. 'As a family sitting here, I wouldn't be here without these guys sitting right here. It's just a great feeling to be here with them. They've been there with me every step of the way.'
