Top Pick AJ Dybantsa Scores 27 as Wizards Beat Jazz

AJ Dybantsa, the top overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, made a powerful first impression in his professional debut, scoring a game-high 27 points to lead the Washington Wizards to a 92-88 victory over the Utah Jazz in the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas on Thursday, July 9, 2026.

The 19-year-old forward, who signed a four-year rookie contract reportedly worth approximately $66.9 million, delivered an all-around performance in 26 minutes of play. He added seven rebounds, two assists, two steals, and one block while committing only a single turnover. His debut was highlighted by a forceful first-quarter dunk over Jazz guard Justin Harmon, a play that quickly circulated on social media and energized the crowd at the Thomas & Mack Center.

The game also featured a highly anticipated matchup against Darryn Peterson, the No. 2 overall pick selected by Utah. Peterson finished with 24 points but committed eight turnovers, with Dybantsa outperforming his rival in the head-to-head showcase. While Dybantsa missed all five of his three-point attempts and shot 39 percent from the field, his ability to attack the rim, draw fouls, and make difficult shots aligned with the pre-draft scouting...