As the buzz around the 2026 NBA Draft intensifies, rising star AJ Dybantsa is making waves with his bold picks for a dream starting five. During a recent media session, he faced the intriguing challenge of assembling a lineup of modern NBA icons, and his choices are stirring plenty of conversation.
Dybantsa, who is gearing up for his future in the league, didn’t hold back. He confidently placed himself at small forward, flanked by none other than LeBron James and Stephen Curry in the backcourt. Rounding out his lineup were Kevin Durant at power forward and Nikola Jokic manning the center position.
“I might get some backlash for this, but I’d have LeBron at the one and Jokic at the five,” Dybantsa shared, as reported by SportsCenter. “I’ll take the three spot, KD at the four, and Curry at the two, but he’s just there to shoot.”
It’s no surprise that Dybantsa included himself, showcasing his self-assuredness as he prepares for the next chapter of his career. His performance at BYU has been impressive, with averages of 25.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game, shooting an impressive 51% from the field. While his future remains uncertain, reports suggest he prefers to stay in Utah for his NBA journey.
Interestingly, the 19-year-old’s lineup leans heavily on seasoned veterans rather than the newer wave of talent. Instead of selecting rising stars like Anthony Edwards or Luka Doncic, he opted for established legends like LeBron, Curry, Durant, and Jokic. Each of these players has not only achieved superstar status but has also secured championships and MVP awards, setting a high bar for excellence in the league.
Dybantsa’s admiration for LeBron is evident, as he named him first without hesitation. By placing James at point guard—despite his usual forward position with the Lakers—Dybantsa acknowledges LeBron’s exceptional playmaking ability. With a career filled with accolades, including four championships and four MVP awards, LeBron’s impressive stats speak for themselves: an average of 26.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 7.4 assists over 23 seasons.
For the center position, Dybantsa chose Nikola Jokic, a decision that reflects his belief in the Serbian star’s offensive prowess. Despite a disappointing playoff exit this season, Jokic remains a top-tier player, known for his elite passing and scoring skills. This season, he averaged 27.7 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 10.7 assists, showcasing his all-around talent.
Kevin Durant’s inclusion might raise eyebrows, especially given his recent playoff struggles. Yet, Dybantsa sees him as a vital asset, recognizing Durant’s scoring ability and experience. In his 18th season, Durant averaged 26.0 points and continues to be a formidable presence on the court.
Lastly, Stephen Curry, a cornerstone of the Warriors’ dynasty, rounds out the lineup. Even as the team transitions, Curry’s skills remain sharp, with averages of 26.6 points and 4.7 assists this past season. Dybantsa envisions Curry primarily as a shooter, allowing LeBron to orchestrate the offense.
While fans may debate Dybantsa’s selections, one thing is clear: he has a profound respect for the legends who have paved the way for him. As he continues to hone his skills, the question remains—can he rise to the occasion and carve out his own legacy in the NBA?
