AJ Dybantsa’s path to becoming the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft appears to be narrowing, with the BYU star reportedly feeling positive about his chances of landing with the Washington Wizards.
Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints reported Wednesday that Dybantsa recently worked out for Washington and met with the franchise’s leadership, with a source close to the situation describing the visit as “perfect.” The report added that Dybantsa and his camp received strong signals that the Wizards intend to select him with the first pick.
Washington controls the top selection after finishing the 2025-26 season with the NBA’s worst record at 17-65. The Wizards enter the draft searching for a franchise centerpiece, and Dybantsa has emerged as the player most connected to the No. 1 spot.
The BYU forward was also scheduled to visit the Utah Jazz, who own the No. 2 pick after a 22-60 season. According to reports, Dybantsa is only meeting with the teams holding the first two selections, leaving the impression that the draft’s opening decisions will revolve around Washington and Utah.
Dybantsa strengthened his case during his lone college season. The freshman started all 35 games for BYU and averaged 25.5 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists in 34.8 minutes per game. He shot 51.0% from the field, 56.8% on two-point attempts and 77.4% from the free-throw line.
His production earned him consensus first-team All-American honors and made him the clear favorite at the top of the draft class. His combination of size, shot creation and efficiency has positioned him as the prospect most likely to become the foundation of a rebuilding franchise.
For Washington, the need for a cornerstone is clear. The Wizards struggled throughout the season, posting a 17-65 record and finishing 43 games behind the Eastern Conference-leading Detroit Pistons. The franchise has focused on player development, but adding a high-level forward would accelerate the timeline.
Utah represents the only immediate threat to Washington’s plans. The Jazz finished 22-60 and hold the second pick, giving them an opportunity to select Dybantsa if the Wizards make a surprise decision.
The Memphis Grizzlies at No. 3 and Chicago Bulls at No. 4 are not expected to enter the Dybantsa sweepstakes. His limited visit schedule has reinforced the belief that the first overall selection will come down to Washington and Utah.
With draft night approaching on June 23-24, the final stage of the process is centered on one question: whether the Wizards will make Dybantsa the face of their rebuild. Current signals suggest the answer is trending toward yes.
