In an emotionally charged moment at the 2026 NBA Draft, AJ Dybantsa was selected as the overall number one pick by the Washington Wizards, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning basketball career. As he stood poised on the brink of his professional journey, Dybantsa paid a heartfelt tribute to his late mentor, Terrence Clarke, whose dreams of joining the NBA were tragically cut short.
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The draft took place on Tuesday, June 23, and Dybantsa made a striking impression with his outfit, which was thoughtfully curated to pay homage to his heritage and his friend. With roots in the Republic of Congo through his father, Ace, and Jamaican lineage from his mother, Chelsea, Dybantsa’s choice of attire was not just a fashion statement; it was a representation of his identity. He also wore a blue heart pin in honour of Clarke, known affectionately as “TC5.”
Reflecting on his decision to honour Clarke, who tragically passed away in 2021 at the age of 19 following a car accident, Dybantsa remarked, “I wanted to show love. Obviously, [Clarke] couldn’t get drafted, and I’m from the same city he’s from.” This bond was forged during their childhood in the suburbs of Boston, where the two young athletes shared a close brotherly relationship. Dybantsa described Clarke as someone he considered “like my big brother,” a figure who shaped his early years in basketball.
Dybantsa travelled to Paris to source his draft day outfit, which featured colourful elements that he described as “rainbow face on the watch,” showcasing his vibrant personality as well as his intent to celebrate his countries and his late friend. “I want to represent my countries, and I wanted to represent TC5,” he explained, highlighting the mix of emotions that surrounded this significant moment as he stepped onto the draught stage.
When his name was announced as the first pick, Dybantsa was joined by a close-knit group of family members, including his parents and two sisters, Samarra and Jasmyn. Their support emphasised the importance of family in his life, particularly as he embarked on this new chapter. Speaking to reporters after the announcement, he said, “I’m international. My mum’s from Jamaica, and my dad’s from Congo, so we have people from all over. But in the green room today, it’s just my parents, my sisters and my godparents.”
For Dybantsa, realising his dream of playing in the NBA is a moment of immense significance, something he described as “just a blessing.” His determination and hard work, including countless hours spent training, have culminated in this pivotal achievement. “To hear my name get called tonight would be just a blessing,” he shared, revealing the emotional depth behind his ascent to professional basketball.
Terrence Clarke, who attended the University of Kentucky, had a promising future ahead of him before his untimely death. Just a day before the accident, he had signed with the Klutch Sports agency and announced his intention to enter the NBA Draft. His tragic passing occurred when he was involved in a car accident in Los Angeles, where it was reported that he ran a red light and collided with another vehicle before crashing into a structure. Unfortunately, Clarke was not wearing his seatbelt at the time of the incident.
In the wake of Clarke’s death, Rich Paul, CEO of Klutch Sports, expressed the profound sense of loss felt by many. “We are saddened and devastated by the tragic loss of Terrence Clarke. He was an incredible, hard-working young man. He was excited for what was ahead of him,” Paul stated in a statement to ESPN. The impact of Clarke’s memorial still resonates deeply with Dybantsa, who has vowed to carry on his legacy.
As AJ Dybantsa steps onto the court for the Washington Wizards, his dedication to Clarke’s memory will undoubtedly influence his approach to the game. He is determined to fulfil not only his dreams but also to honour the aspirations and dreams of his late friend. The bond they shared continues to drive Dybantsa as he embarks on a career that, in many ways, reflects both their journeys through the sport they love.