WASHINGTON — The Wizards returned to Capital One Arena for the first time in six months when they welcomed 2,500 fans for the team’s annual open practice.
And the buzz was palpable.
Fans lined up outside the arena to secure their first look at this year’s Wizards. More importantly, it marked their first chance to see AJ Dybantsa and Anthony Davis Ayton, whom the team added this summer.
When those two were introduced, the reaction didn’t disappoint.
Following player introductions, the players participated in a 3-point contest. Trae Young defeated AJ Dybantsa, who said he only lost because his teammates forgot to count his makes.
The star of the competition was Tre Mann, who made 17/20 shots (he shot with his opposite hand at the final spot), including 14 straight makes to open his run.
Then came a bit of rookie hazing. Dybantsa and fellow rookie Felix Okpara grabbed microphones and serenaded Capital One Arena with a beautiful rendition of Drake’s “One Dance.”
Dybantsa even channeled his inner John Wall and hit The Dougie.
The crowd was the real winner
Last year, during the final of a three-year deconstruction phase, the Wizards hosted open practice at a high school gym. It’s crazy the difference one year — and one really talented No. 1 pick — can make on a franchise.
Dybantsa praised the atmosphere following practice. It only heightened his excitement for regular-season hoops at Cap One.
“Being here, getting to know how loud it can get. Like it wasn’t even halfway full, and it was super loud. So I can’t even imagine what it’ll be like when the season comes around.”
Lofty expectations come with being the top pick. You’re viewed as the franchise savior, the one handpicked to lead your team to an NBA title.
Dybantsa said doesn't feel that pressure. Why? The talent and experience around him.
“I have a lot of guys around me that are vets, that are proven winners. It takes a lot off my shoulders,” Dybantsa said. “Guys like AD and Khris have won championships. Trae [Young] is a multi-time All-Star. I don’t have to come in and be super pressed or super forced to do a lot of things. I can ease my way into it and learn how to play the right way.”
Tre Johnson shared a similar sentiment about the sold-out crowd.
“[The crowd] was great … It’s gonna be a big change from last season. I’m ready for it.”
Johnson said his consistency this summer will make him a better player than he was last season. The veterans, he said, will make the team much better.
“[The veterans] are gonna help tremendously,” Johnson said. “The vets have been through it. They’ve already got that experience. They’re gonna help a lot.”
Keefe talks Vukčević injury
On Thursday afternoon, the Wizards announced Tristan Vukčević suffered a hip impingement, and he would be re-evaluated in approximately four weeks.
He said Okpara has gotten more reps during training camp as a result. The two-way center was Washington’s No. 46 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.
“We have a lot of bigs on our roster that can fill that spot. Hopefully [Tristan] will get back soon.”
"Anthony Davis Ayton, whom the team added this summer" ??? 😂