AJ Dybantsa prepared for 'crazy' NBA draft night scenarios

AJ Dybantsa, the NCAA scoring champion and Julius Erving Award winner, told USA TODAY Sports he is confident about securing the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, scheduled for June 23 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. However, he acknowledged the unpredictability of draft night, stating, 'There's been crazy stuff that happens on draft night.' Dybantsa has conducted pre-draft workouts with both the Washington Wizards and Utah Jazz, the teams holding the No. 1 and No. 2 picks. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Kansas guard Darryn Peterson, another top prospect, has only visited with the Wizards and does not plan to meet with other teams. Both players are expected to hear their names called at No. 1 overall. Dybantsa’s decision to visit multiple teams stems from his ties to Utah, where he played at BYU and attended Utah Prep Academy. He explained, 'You want to visit different teams and see what they have to offer.' The Jazz, however, remain torn between Dybantsa, Peterson, and Cameron Boozer, potentially selecting Peterson despite not conducting a workout with him. The Wizards’ front office is reportedly undecided until closer to draft night, while the Jazz must make an immediate choice when on the clock. Dybantsa emphasized his readiness to contribute versatility offensively and defensively, regardless of draft position. His father, Ace Dybantsa, shared a photo of a T-shirt featuring both the Wizards and Jazz logos, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the top picks.