AJ Dybantsa wants #3 jersey if drafted by Wizards

A projected top pick in the upcoming NBA draft has sparked a conversation about locker room dynamics and rookie expectations after publicly stating his desire for a veteran player's jersey number. AJ Dybantsa, the 19-year-old prospect from Brigham Young University, said during a recent podcast appearance that if the Washington Wizards select him with the first overall pick, he would want to wear number 3, the number currently worn by Wizards guard Trae Young.

The comment came during an interview on the "Gil's Arena" podcast hosted by former Wizards star Gilbert Arenas. When Arenas raised the potential jersey number conflict, Dybantsa responded, "If they draft me, I do need 3, Trae. If they draft me. We're gonna see in like 5 weeks." The 2026 NBA Draft is scheduled to begin on June 23.

Dybantsa has worn the number 3 throughout his high school and collegiate career. Young, an eight-year veteran and four-time All-Star, wore number 11 during his tenure with the Atlanta Hawks but switched to number 3 after a mid-season trade to Washington, as the number 11 is retired by the Wizards franchise.

The remark drew mixed reactions online. Some fans and observers criticized the statement as...