The Washington Wizards have struck gold in the 2026 NBA draft lottery, securing the No. 1 overall pick for the fifth time in franchise history—and the first since 2010, when they selected John Wall. The announcement came Sunday at the Navy Pier in Chicago, marking a historic moment as the Wizards became the first team to win the lottery after finishing with the league's worst record under the current drawing format.
With the top pick in what experts are calling one of the deepest draft classes in recent memory, Washington has its sights set on a transformative talent. The projected top prospects include Darius Acuff Jr., Cameron Boozer, Mikel Brown Jr., AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, and Caleb Wilson—a group that could reshape a franchise's future. The excitement was palpable, with the team's official social media erupting: "THE FIRST PICK IS OURS!!!! 🤯"
Behind the Wizards, the Utah Jazz secured the No. 2 pick, followed by the Memphis Grizzlies at No. 3, the Chicago Bulls at No. 4, and the LA Clippers rounding out the top five. The Clippers' pick came courtesy of the Indiana Pacers, conveying after it fell outside the top four protected range. The Bulls made the biggest leap of the night, jumping from the ninth pre-lottery slot to fourth, while the Brooklyn Nets suffered the steepest drop, falling to sixth despite having a 14% chance at the top pick.
The lottery kicks off an action-packed week in the Windy City, featuring the G League and draft combines. Over 100 prospects will showcase their skills in 5-on-5 games, strength and agility drills, measurements, and other testing—giving teams a final look before the draft on June 23.
Here's the complete first-round draft order:
1. Washington Wizards
2. Utah Jazz
3. Memphis Grizzlies
4. Chicago Bulls
5. LA Clippers (via Indiana Pacers)
6. Brooklyn Nets
7. (Remaining picks to be filled in based on actual results)
For fans and collectors, this draft class promises to deliver instant impact players and future stars—making it the perfect time to gear up with your team's latest merchandise.