AJ Dybantsa did not disappoint in his long-awaited debut, although the Washington Wizards lost to the Cleveland Cavaliers, 121-111, at Rocket Arena on Wednesday.
Dybantsa, the No. 1 pick, was efficient with 19 points, two rebounds, and two assists in 27 minutes. He shot 8-of-12 from the field. The Wizards, however, got outscored in the fourth quarter, 29-19, allowing the Cavaliers to get the victory.
Washington fell to 2-3, while Cleveland improved to 3-1.
After his strong debut, Dybantsa posted a video of his highlights on X.
“It was one day until it was day one,” wrote the 19-year-old rookie in the caption.
As Jaylen Brown would put it, Dybantsa has a great public relations team.
Fans were fired up by Dybantsa's flex.
“We will be watching your career and rooting for you all the way, AJ,” said @wizardsfangirl.
“No. 4 is gonna be in the rafters one day,” added @trejohnsonszn.
“Future GOAT,” claimed @JayRuh2.
“You look sweet out that MF, shawty 🤝,” stated @__frankMatthews.
“MASS 617, stand up 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥,” commented @mrfamilyman4.
Dybantsa missed the Wizards' first four games due to an ankle injury.
He had a hot start against the Cavaliers, scoring nine points in the first quarter. He was unfazed despite going against tough defenders in Peyton Watson, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen, who are all tough defenders.
The former BYU standout will only get better as he progresses and continues to learn. He has shown that he has the work ethic to be competitive and the innate desire to be great.
The Wizards will host the Charlotte Hornets on Friday.