NBASep 30
AJ Dybantsa Lands Cover of 2026 Topps Flagship Basketball
The Wizards’ top draft pick adds a trading-card milestone as his own interest in collecting grows. Preorders open Oct. 6.
By OddsListing wire desk
· 2 min read
On this page3 sections
From draft spotlight to Topps cover
Washington Wizards rookie AJ Dybantsa will headline 2026 Topps Flagship Basketball, adding a collectibles honor to his arrival as the NBA draft’s top selection. Topps announced the cover choice Monday, with preorders scheduled for Oct. 6. The 19-year-old follows Dallas Mavericks standout Cooper Flagg, last year’s cover athlete, making it consecutive appearances for top overall draft picks. They also share New England roots: Dybantsa is from Boston, while Flagg comes from Newport, Maine. Dybantsa viewed that regional connection as a chance to represent their hometowns on a prominent platform.
A rookie class takes center stage
The collection features a 2026 draft class that includes Dybantsa, Utah Jazz selection Darryn Peterson, Memphis Grizzlies pick Cameron Boozer and Chicago Bulls newcomer Caleb Wilson. Autographs from rookies, established players and basketball legends are included, along with new inserts. Among the additions is a Gold one-of-one All Kings parallel.
Building his own collection
Dybantsa only began collecting this year, as signing cards sparked an interest in owning them. He already has two of his own: one purchased at Fanatics Fest in July and another found in a random pull. His draft-night introduction to NBA cards was especially quick. After Washington selected him in June, a rookie card was produced before he sat down for a post-selection interview, allowing him to sign it during the appearance. Dybantsa estimates his collection includes 100 notable signed or numbered cards. His interests extend beyond basketball, including a card featuring soccer star Ousmane Dembele. He also seeks cards of friends and teammates and envisions displaying cards alongside signed jerseys in a collectibles room at home.
Analysis, not a wagering instruction. Confirm every number on the sportsbook. 21+.
