Former Kansas Jayhawks star Darryn Peterson is one of the very best prospects in the 2026 draft class and it appears that he’s certain he will be drafted with the No. 1 pick next week.
So certain that he’s reportedly only visiting the Washington Wizards, who hold that top pick. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, he does not plan to meet with any other teams.
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Meanwhile, Charania reports that former BYU star AJ Dybantsa also granted the Wizards a meeting as well as the Utah Jazz, who hold the second pick in the draft.
Sources told ESPN that both players believe they will be the No. 1 pick.
While both Peterson and Dybantsa are worthy of the top selection, the narratives surrounding the two were drastically different last season.
Peterson entered last season viewed as the top prospect in the class, but his freshman season at Kansas was ravaged by injuries and health issues.
Doctors later determined that creatine, a supplement commonly used by athletes, was the cause of cramping problems that sidelined him for 11 games. His talent is undeniable, but his availability scares opened the door for other players to be the top pick.
At BYU last season, Dybantsa became just the third freshman in NCAA history to lead all D-I players in scoring for a season. He began the year as a potential high-lottery pick, but his outstanding play boosted him to the very top of the class.
Now, the Wizards face a decision that is both exciting and difficult.
“It’s our fans that have endured the most,” Wizards basketball executive Michael Winger said. “And to me, this No. 1 pick is for them. It’s a reward for hanging in there with us. It’s a reward to continue to support us despite sometimes really bad basketball. They knew and they supported a multiyear teardown, a multiyear reinvention of the franchise.”
James Parker is a sports writer for Ball Exclusives, follow him on X @TheJames_Parker
