Wizards’ Youth Movement Opens Summer League With Statement Win Over Jazz, 92-88

The Washington Wizards opened the 2026 NBA Summer League with exactly the type of performance fans hoped to see. Behind an electric debut from No. 1 overall pick AJ Dybantsa and strong complementary efforts from Tre Johnson and Will Riley, Washington held off the Utah Jazz for a 92-88 victory Thursday night at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas.

The nationally televised matchup featured the top two selections in the 2026 NBA Draft, with Dybantsa facing No. 2 overall pick Darryn Peterson for the first time as professionals. While Peterson flashed his immense talent, Dybantsa stole the spotlight and helped the Wizards begin Summer League play with a confidence-building win.

Dybantsa finished with 27 points, seven rebounds, two assists, two steals and one block, repeatedly attacking the rim and living at the free-throw line. Although his three-point shot wasn’t falling (0-for-5), the former BYU star showcased the aggressive mentality, athleticism and two-way potential that made him the first overall selection. His 27-point performance tied the Summer League record for a No. 1 overall pick making his debut.

The Wizards received another outstanding outing from Tre Johnson, who poured in 26 points with efficient shooting, giving Washington a dynamic one-two scoring punch. Second-year wing Will Riley chipped in 17 points, including several clutch baskets during Utah’s late comeback attempt.

Washington’s young core controlled much of the contest, racing out to a sizable first-half advantage through relentless defense and transition offense. The Wizards’ defensive pressure consistently disrupted Peterson, forcing turnovers and making every possession difficult despite the talented guard eventually finishing with 24 points. Jamir Watkins drew the difficult defensive assignment and helped make Peterson work for nearly every basket.

Utah refused to go away in the second half, trimming a deficit that had reached 20 points. Cody Williams added 16 points for the Jazz, while Peterson found his rhythm late to make the final minutes competitive. Washington, however, answered every challenge with timely baskets from Riley, Johnson and Dybantsa to secure the four-point victory.

Perhaps the biggest takeaway wasn’t simply the win—it was how well Washington’s recent draft classes fit together. The starting lineup featured Dybantsa alongside 2025 first-rounders Tre Johnson and Will Riley, second-round pick Jamir Watkins, and center Felix Okpara. The chemistry between the young players was evident, providing another encouraging sign for a franchise committed to building through the draft.

MSB Take

It’s only one Summer League game, but this was exactly what Wizards fans wanted to see. Dybantsa looked every bit like a future franchise cornerstone, Johnson continued to show why he’s an important part of Washington’s rebuild, and Riley’s late-game poise was another reminder of his continued development.

Summer League is about growth more than wins, but opening with a victory over another talented young team—while the No. 1 overall pick shines on the national stage—is an excellent first step. If Thursday’s performance is any indication, the Wizards’ rebuild may be ahead of schedule.