NBA Summer League Awards: AJ Dybantsa, Caleb Wilson and the Lob City connection

LAS VEGAS — Summer League is a time for glimpses, not guarantees.

From an analysis standpoint, toes are being dipped in the water here; it’s how you get a feel for who players are, what they like, where they have to grow once competition ramps up during preseason play, and again once the regular season begins.

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More than anything, Summer League is supposed to be fun. I recently left Vegas, and while I don’t miss the (dry) heat, I do miss the general vibe there. Walking around the arena, not knowing if you’re going to run into fellow basketball sickos — fans, friends, media members, coaches, players, former league-mates — is part of the charm. You never know what throwback jerseys you’re going to see, either.

This piece is less about nitty gritty analysis, and more about celebrating the things that have brought me joy through a week-plus of Summer League action.

Let’s hand out some awards, shall we?

The Old Spice Swagger Award: AJ Dybantsa, Washington Wizards

There’s generally a level of self-belief — and (not so) borderline arrogance — you have to have to become a top pick. AJ Dybantsa certainly has that in spades.

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Beyond the pure talent — his ability to will himself into the paint for shots at the rim, free throws, or both, might just be unrivaled in this class — there’s a way that he reacts to defenses as a concept that I enjoyed watching up close.

AJ Dybantsa is showing why he was the No. 1 pick in the 2026 draft. (AP Photo/John Locher)

(AP Photo/John Locher)

For the Wizards-Jazz showdown, the very game that Dybantsa dropped 27 & 7 in a 92-88 win, what probably sticks with me the most was the way he was literally shaking his head after baskets. Like, it was as if he was confused and disgusted at the thought of someone having the audacity of trying to contain him.

There’s some level of shot selection refinement needed, but that isn’t new for a talented top pick. I do already appreciate his aggression and his approach. He’s not scared of anyone.

There’s plenty to like about the Caleb Wilson experience so far. He shined in his debut against the Cameron…

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Author : Nekias Duncan

Publish date : 2026-07-14 18:38:00

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