On Thursday, the top two picks in this year’s NBA draft squared off as AJ Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson suited up for Summer League action. Both players delivered the goods, as Dybantsa finished with 27 points and seven rebounds while Peterson put up 24 points, three boards, and three assists.
Dybantsa’s Wizards ended up getting the better of Peterson’s Jazz, with a 92-88 victory in Las Vegas. On social media, fans praised Dybantsa for winning this head-to-head of high-profile rookies.
Though Peterson faced some criticism for being one-upped by Dybantsa in this game, his previous Summer League games have nevertheless been impressive outings. Heading into the matchup against the Wizards, Peterson had been averaging 26.5 points per game on 68% true shooting (as per The Hardwood Collective).
In the months leading up to the draft, there was a healthy debate regarding the Wizards’ pick at the No. 1 position. But, as widely projected, the team went with the former BYU forward who had dazzled scouts with his size, athleticism, and scoring prowess. Peterson was taken by the Jazz one pick later, and now, the 2026-27 schedule of both Washington and Utah have become much more interesting.
AJ Dybantsa Opens Up on Summer League Goals: “Find Different Scoring Areas, Play Against NBA Defenses”
After the Wizards-Jazz game, AJ Dybantsa was asked about his objectives in this year’s Summer League. According to Dybantsa, fine-tuning his offense is a priority.
“First of all, wins. Definitely. Try to figure out where I’m going to be at, try to find different scoring areas…and just play against NBA defenses.”
Dybantsa also mentioned that he hadn’t met up with Wizards star Trae Young just yet. The pairing of Dybantsa and Young, who has led the NBA in assists, will be a must-see attraction.
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