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The Real Reason Wizards Shocked the Draft With Dybantsa
Washington passed on a hyped star for AJ Dybantsa at No 1, and the quiet logic behind it changes everything for their future. Here is the full story.
Kunal·June 24, 2026· 5 min read 0
Wizards select AJ Dybantsa first overall to begin franchise reset
The Washington Wizards used the number one pick in the 2026 NBA Draft on BYU star AJ Dybantsa, a franchise defining decision that instantly places the versatile wing at the center of their long term plans. By choosing Dybantsa over Kansas standout Darryn Peterson, the Wizards signaled a clear direction for their rebuild, prioritizing two way upside, perimeter size and long range scoring potential.
Why Washington chose AJ Dybantsa over Darryn Peterson
The front office faced an unusually close choice at…
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