Adam Finkelstein of CBS Sports Says AJ Dybantsa Hoped to be Drafted by Utah Jazz
His facial expression said a whole lot during this year’s NBA draft lottery broadcast. Instantly, talk spread that this first round pick might not particularly care for where his basketball career journey is heading. His team shutdown a lot of these discussions. However, it looks like such thoughts weren’t completely off the mark. Adam Finkelstein of CBS Sports says 2026 NBA draftee AJ Dybantsa was hoping to be drafted by the Utah Jazz.
In this year’s upcoming draft, thanks to the Washington Wizards winning the 2026 NBA Draft Lottery; Washington now holds the No. 1 overall pick for the NBA draft on June 23, 2026. The Utah Jazz and Memphis Grizzlies hold the 2nd and 3rd pick. As one can see, AJ’s “dream” came very close to coming true. In fact, it still can if Utah decides to trade up for Dybantsa.
A roster with AJ that includes the duo, Lauri Markkanen and Keyonte George; could be the start of a strong, dynamic and youthful core for the Jazz. Therefore, trading up could be a very attractive and appealing move to the front office of Utah. Soon we will see if they pull the trigger.
Adam Finkelstein of CBS Sports Says AJ Dybantsa Hoped to be Drafted by Utah Jazz
Nonetheless, why does Dybantsa want to stay in Utah so badly. Well, for thing he’s comfortable. He’s been living there for school and his family has joined him. Finkelstein alluded to this by stating,
“That comment by Dybantsa was also consistent with one of the most repeated pieces of intel floating around Chicago this week: that Dybantsa was reportedly hoping to stay in Utah. He’s been in Utah now for two years (one season at Utah Prep and one season in Provo at BYU). His family is now with him in Utah, and they’ve grown to like the state and were hoping to stay… Now that has led some to wonder whether we could see some “workout shenanigans” where Dybantsa could potentially refuse to work out for Washington in hopes of forcing his way to Utah… Dybantsa’s camp had reportedly indicated to some they weren’t interested in playing that game, despite their preference to end up in Utah.”
Interesting, however players do not get to choose where they typically land. Ask Ace Bailey. The draft is to help teams improve and become more competitive. The best prospects go to organizations that need the most talent to accomplish this goal. Therefore, of course anything can happen during the drafting process but for now; Dybantsa still probably (not definitely) ends up in Washington.
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