Wizards Secure No. 1 Pick in NBA Draft Lottery; Jazz and Grizzlies Round Out Top Three

Why it matters locally: The Washington Wizards, District of Columbia's NBA team, securing the first overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft is a significant development for local sports fans and the team's future prospects.

The Washington Wizards landed the first overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft Lottery, their first No. 1 selection since 2010. The Utah Jazz claimed the second pick, and the Memphis Grizzlies secured the third pick. These teams finished with the league's three worst records during the 2025-26 season. The Chicago Bulls, represented by Toni Kukoc, jumped from ninth to fourth in the lottery order. Bryson Graham, the Bulls' lead executive, now holds the fourth pick, which follows their 2020 lottery jump to fourth, where they selected Patrick Williams. Washington, who acquired Trae Young and Anthony Davis during the season, is now positioned to add a high-level talent. Reports suggest they may select AJ Dybantsa, a 6'9" wing from BYU. The Brooklyn Nets received the sixth overall pick. The Indiana Pacers, who finished with the league's second-worst record, lost their top-four protected pick. This pick, originally traded to the Los Angeles Clippers as part of a package for Ivica Zubac, conveyed to the Clippers as the fifth overall selection. Pacers General Manager Kevin Pritchard acknowledged the outcome via social media. Following the Pacers' pick, the Sacramento Kings received the seventh selection. The New Orleans Pelicans obtained the eighth pick. The Pelicans traded the rights to this pick in June 2025 to select Derik Queen.