Bub Carrington said the Washington Wizards had been “held back” during the 2025-26 season as the team pursued AJ Dybantsa. His comments describe how the season felt to him; the available reporting does not establish that management or coaches ordered players to lose games. Washington finished 17-65, won the 2026 NBA Draft Lottery, and selected Dybantsa first overall.
What Carrington said about being “held back”
In an interview with WUSA9’s Marshall Kramsky, as reported by theScore, Carrington said the players had not yet been told to “go be the best version” of themselves. He described the team as having been held back “in a way” because it was trying to get Dybantsa, then added that “no one has handcuffs” now.
That is Carrington’s characterization, not proof of a formal instruction to lose. The cited coverage reports his remarks and the team’s pursuit of Dybantsa, but does not substantiate an order from the front office or coaching staff telling players to throw games.
How the Wizards’ season and draft lottery turned out
Washington’s 17-65 record in the 2025-26 regular season placed the team in the draft lottery. The Wizards shared a 14% chance of winning the No. 1 pick with the Brooklyn Nets and Indiana Pacers, according to the NBA-hosted Associated Press lottery report. Those odds offered a chance, not a guarantee. Washington won the drawing and used the first pick in the June 2026 draft to select Dybantsa.
#1 Best Overall
- Officially Licensed by the NBA
- Boys youth sizing: Small (8), Medium (10-12), Large (14-16), X-Large (20)
- 100% Polyester; Machine Wash Cold, Tumble Dry Low
- Made from soft polyester, this knit-top jersey t-shirt offers a comfortable and breathable fit, designed to withstand the rigors of spirited game days and endless hours of play. It features bright team colors, and bold heat-transferred graphics that allow your budding basketball fan to proudly showcase their allegiance.
- The simple, classic design ensures your little one will look effortlessly cool wherever they go. It's a gift that combines style, comfort, and team spirit in one package, and will be cherished by your young basketball fan.
What Dybantsa brings to Washington
Dybantsa joined the NBA from BYU. In his freshman college season, he averaged 25.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game, according to his NBA.com prospect profile. Those are BYU statistics, not NBA results.
In that profile, BYU head coach Kevin Young compared Dybantsa’s focus and work ethic to Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, respectively. The comparison is Young’s assessment of the prospect, not a prediction of Dybantsa’s NBA performance.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 100% Polyester
- Screen printed graphics
- Wicks away moisture
- Boys Youth Sizing: Small (8), Medium (10-12), Large (14-16), X-Large (20), Player name and number on back
- Officially licensed NBA product
Rank #4
- OFFICIAL NBA JERSEY: Authentic Deni Avdija swingman jersey representing the Washington Wizards in a bold Red Statement Edition design.
- YOUTH SIZING: Available in kids sizes 8-20, making it the perfect fit for young basketball fans of all ages.
- SWINGMAN QUALITY: Features tackle twill lettering and numbering with a replica cut and construction inspired by on-court jerseys.
- OUTERSTUFF BRAND: Crafted by Outerstuff, a trusted name in officially licensed youth sports apparel and fan gear.
- GREAT FOR FANS: Perfect for game days, casual wear, or gifting to any young Deni Avdija or NBA fan.
Rank #3
- OFFICIAL NBA JERSEY: Authentic Deni Avdija swingman jersey representing the Washington Wizards in a bold Red Statement Edition design.
- YOUTH SIZING: Available in kids sizes 8-20, making it the perfect fit for young basketball fans of all ages.
- SWINGMAN QUALITY: Features tackle twill lettering and numbering with a replica cut and construction inspired by on-court jerseys.
- OUTERSTUFF BRAND: Crafted by Outerstuff, a trusted name in officially licensed youth sports apparel and fan gear.
- GREAT FOR FANS: Perfect for game days, casual wear, or gifting to any young Deni Avdija or NBA fan.
Rank #2
- Officially Licensed: This jersey is officially licensed by the NBA, ensuring authentic team logos and quality craftsmanship.
- Premium Material: Made from 100% polyester, this jersey features double-knit fabric with a mesh texture, ensuring breathability and comfort during intense games or playtime.
- Player Tribute: Celebrate one of the Washington Wizards's star players with this Bradley Beal #3 jersey, featuring Wizards-applied twill team and player details for an authentic and durable design.
- Youth Sizing: Available in sizes for kids and youths aged 8 to 20, this jersey offers a comfortable and tailoNavy fit, perfect for both athletic activities and casual wear.
- Easy Care: Machine washable for convenient cleaning, this jersey should be washed with the garment inside out and can be tumble dried on low Wizards, making it easy to maintain and keep fresh.
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