NBA executives and scouts continue to view AJ Dybantsa as one of the premier prospects in the 2026 NBA draft. Many around the league believe the BYU freshman is firmly in the conversation for the No. 1 overall pick.
According to league intel gathered by ESPN, the race for the top selection currently centers on two players. Kansas's Darryn Peterson and Dybantsa are the front-runners. Multiple front-office figures say the two freshmen have separated themselves from the rest of the draft class and are viewed as franchise-level prospects.
Executives praise Dybantsa’s rare physical tools and scoring ability. The 6-foot-9 forward has impressed scouts with his size, shot creation and athleticism on the wing. All traits that translate well to the modern pace. Several evaluators believe his ceiling as a versatile scorer and defender could make him an immediate impact player at the next level.
"He's got all the tools, he's a dynamic scorer who will put up points in the NBA right away," a veteran Eastern Conference executive said.
The 2026 draft is shaping up to be unusually strong at the top. One Western Conference scout told ESPN the class has the feel of a “double draft,” meaning teams picking anywhere near the top could land a generational player. In that environment, Dybantsa remains one of the prospects well-liked by decision makers across the league.
While Peterson entered the season as the presumed No. 1 pick, injuries and inconsistent availability have kept the debate open. That uncertainty has allowed Dybantsa to strengthen his case as the top prospect. Especially as NBA teams gather more live evaluations during the Big 12 and NCAA tournaments.
"I think Dybantsa is the easy No. 1," another East executive said. "He's special. There's just so much for him to still grow into."
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"He's the easiest one to see how he gets to No. 1, but the game doesn't come quite as easy to him like it does to some of the truly great players," a third Eastern conference executive added.
For now, NBA executives expect the battle for the top spot to continue through the postseason. But around the league, the consensus is clear that Dybantsa has the versatility and upside to be one of the defining players of the 2026 draft class.
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