2026 NBA Draft Preview: Washington Wizards Poised for Top Pick

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The 2026 NBA draft arrives, placing the Washington Wizards in the spotlight as they hold the first pick. With anticipation building, fans and experts are eager to see the selections for all 30 first-round picks.

Current Standings

The Wizards lead the draft, followed by the Utah Jazz, Memphis Grizzlies, Chicago Bulls, and LA Clippers. Key prospect AJ Dybantsa from BYU is predicted to be chosen by the Wizards at number one. Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, Cameron Boozer, and Caleb Wilson top the list of prospects for this year.

Where to Watch

The first round of the 2026 NBA draft begins at 8 p.m. ET on Tuesday, June 23. Viewers can watch on ESPN and ABC for live coverage.

Picks Overview

Picks 21-30

21. Detroit Pistons (via Timberwolves)
22. Philadelphia 76ers (via Rockets)
23. Atlanta Hawks (via Cavaliers)
24. New York Knicks
25. Los Angeles Lakers
26. Denver Nuggets
27. Boston Celtics
28. Brooklyn Nets (via Pistons)
29. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Spurs)
30. Dallas Mavericks (via Thunder)

Dallas Mavericks’ Strategic Moves

The Dallas Mavericks continue their transformation following the Luka Doncic trade, appointing Michigan’s Dusty May as coach. With two first-round selections, the Mavericks aim to build around Cooper Flagg, last year’s Rookie of the Year.

Dallas holds the ninth and 30th overall picks, in addition to a second-round choice available Wednesday. Alongside incoming talent, the team expects star Kyrie Irving to recover from his knee injury and return to play. Returning players include forwards P.J. Washington, Daniel Gafford, and center Dereck Lively II.

The ninth pick places Dallas in a position to select from numerous one-and-done guards like Arkansas’ Darius Acuff Jr., Houston’s Kingston Flemings, and Arizona’s Brayden Burries. Tennessee’s freshman forward Nate Ament might also be considered.

Coaching Changes

In a significant move, the Dallas Mavericks officially introduced Dusty May as the head coach shortly before the draft. Despite his short tenure, May led Michigan to a remarkable Year of achieving an NCAA championship, compiling a 64-13 record over two seasons.

Replacing Jason Kidd, May leads the team at a time when they hold the ninth pick, which is set to augment their young core around Cooper Flagg. Additionally, Dallas has the last pick in the first round, and the 48th selection in the second round.

Picks 11-20 Overview

11. Golden State Warriors
12. Oklahoma City Thunder
13. Milwaukee Bucks
14. Charlotte Hornets
15. Chicago Bulls (via Trail Blazers)
16. Memphis Grizzlies (via Suns)
17. Oklahoma City Thunder (via 76ers)
18. Charlotte Hornets (via Magic)
19. Toronto Raptors
20. San Antonio Spurs (via Hawks)

NCAA Champions Enter Draft

Michigan’s frontcourt, key to their NCAA title win, may dominate early selections. Players like Yaxel Lendeborg, Morez Johnson Jr., and center Aday Mara are likely to be chosen midway through the first round. Aday Mara, standing at 7-foot-3, is known for his defensive capabilities, while Lendeborg and Johnson provide versatile, potent options on the court.

Top 10 Draft Picks

1. Washington Wizards
2. Utah Jazz
3. Memphis Grizzlies
4. Chicago Bulls
5. LA Clippers (via Pacers)
6. Brooklyn Nets
7. Sacramento Kings
8. Atlanta Hawks (via Pelicans)
9. Dallas Mavericks
10. Milwaukee Bucks

AJ Dybantsa: The Contender

AJ Dybantsa stands as a strong candidate for the top draft pick. His stellar season at BYU saw him lead the nation in scoring with 25.5 points per game. Known for his scoring prowess and ability to draw fouls, Dybantsa’s performance garners widespread attention. His main competition includes Kansas guard Darryn Peterson, another highly skilled player with injury challenges, and Duke’s Cameron Boozer, who earned college basketball’s player of the year honors.