Dybantsa Scores 19 Points in NBA Debut Despite Wizards Loss
The No. 1 pick from Massachusetts scored 19 points and drew a foul on his first play against Cleveland.
By Elena Perry ·
The Washington Wizards have a new cornerstone player, and he made his presence known immediately on Wednesday night. AJ Dybantsa, the first player from Massachusetts selected first overall since Patrick Ewing in 1985, entered his regular season debut against the Cleveland Cavaliers with clear intent. After missing the first six days of the schedule to rest a right ankle injury, he aimed to make his arrival memorable.
Dybantsa recorded 19 points on 8-for-12 shooting from the field. He added two rebounds and two assists while shooting 1-for-3 from beyond the arc. His performance included two made free throws on the very first possession of the game. Although the Wizards fell to the Cavaliers, 121-111, Dybantsa displayed the scoring ability that drove the team’s draft decision.
The action started instantly for the rookie. On the Wizards' first play, Dybantsa came off a screen set by Anthony Davis. He confronted James Harden, a former MVP, and drove past him. Center Jarrett Allen fouled Dybantsa in the air, stopping the shot. Dybantsa converted both free throws, settling his nerves after waiting four games for his official start. He noted that he had butterflies but felt set once the shots fell.
Coach Brian Keefe praised the rookie's immediate impact. He described Dybantsa's ability to attack the basket from the opening play as terrific. Keefe also highlighted the rookie's passing and defensive activity, calling it a pretty impressive first game. The coaching staff had advised Dybantsa not to rush while he was sidelined, a message he followed during the team's 2-2 start to the season.
Dybantsa faced a familiar challenge in Harden, who he watched win the MVP award when Dybantsa was 11 years old. The veteran guard scored 16 points on 5-for-18 shooting while being guarded by Dybantsa for much of the contest. Dybantsa acknowledged the difficulty of the assignment, referencing Harden's past 50-point games, but stated he had to stay solid to handle the task.
The rookie showcased his range with a floater over Allen after a pump fake. He later delivered the dunk he had envisioned for his first basket. In transition, he ran behind Harden as Trae Young lobbed the ball from the three-quarter court. Dybantsa finished with a two-handed slam. He explained that he has added floaters and mid-range shots to his repertoire to counter the height of NBA defenders.
The Wizards now face more than 70 remaining games in the season. Dybantsa joined a roster featuring Anthony Davis and DeAndre Ayton, both former No. 1 picks. The team's guidance shifted to playing free once he was cleared to return. Dybantsa stated he tried to play hard and compete for a win, accepting that the debut did not end in victory but viewing the long schedule ahead as the real opportunity.
