The Washington Wizards selected AJ Dybantsa with the leadoff spot in the 2026 NBA Draft, and the rookie confirmed he will wear No. 4. The decision was announced during a brief press conference with General Manager Will Dawkins, where Dybantsa explained that the jersey choice was a nod to veteran point guard Trae Young, who has long worn the number three for Washington.

During a recent podcast with former Wizard Gilbert Arenas, Dybantsa humorously expressed his desire to keep the No. 3 jersey he wore at BYU, telling Arenas, "If they draft me, I do need 3, Trae." The comment resurfaced after the draft, prompting the young player to publicly defer to Young’s established role on the team. In a tweet that captured his attitude, Dybantsa wrote, "He's the vet, I'm gonna respect his number," underscoring the light-hearted nature of the exchange.

When Dybantsa appeared alongside General Manager Dawkins, the new number was revealed to the media. He described the change as a "new beginning," emphasizing that while the digit is different, the mindset remains focused on contributing to the team’s success. The shift from No. 3 to No. 4 keeps Dybantsa numerically close to his preferred digit while visibly honoring Young’s tenure with the franchise.

Beyond the jersey conversation, Dybantsa brings a versatile skill set to Washington. As a wing who can score, stretch the floor, and guard multiple positions, his presence adds a two-way dimension to a roster that already features a veteran point guard and a mix of young talent. The combination of Dybantsa’s athleticism with Young’s playmaking ability creates a backcourt capable of executing pick-and-roll actions and off-ball shooting scenarios, which should accelerate the rookie’s integration into the team’s system.

If Dybantsa adapts quickly, the jersey swap is likely to become a footnote in a season where the top draft pick contributes alongside Young, setting a tone for a franchise that blends fresh talent with established leadership. The open and humorous handling of the jersey issue reflects a collaborative culture within the organization, signaling that respect and team cohesion are prioritized over individual ego.