AJ Dybantsa finally got his NBA debut after missing the start of the season with a sprained ankle, but the Cleveland Cavaliers spoiled the night with a 121-111 comeback win over the Washington Wizards at Rocket Arena.
The No. 1 pick in June’s draft started and finished with 19 points, a confident first outing for a rookie who has carried huge expectations since draft night. Washington played with energy early and looked comfortable in the opening stretch.
Washington Fades After a Fast Start
Cleveland rallied from behind in the second half. The Wizards could not hold off the surge, and the AJ Dybantsa debut ended without the win the visitors wanted.
It was a reminder of how hard it is to close games in the NBA, even when a talented young core shows flashes. Dybantsa looked at ease, and the debut gave Washington a glimpse of what a healthy lineup can offer.
Mobley’s Threes Swing the Night
Evan Mobley hit five three-pointers and gave Cleveland the lift it needed, with the Cavaliers tightening up defensively and shooting well as the game wore on. His shooting stretched the floor and turned a close contest into a comfortable finish.
The result lifts Cleveland to 3-1 on the young season and drops Washington to 2-3. For the Cavaliers it is a third straight victory after losing their opener, which is exactly the type of response a contender wants in the first week of the NBA season.
Few debuts carry the weight of a No. 1 pick, and this AJ Dybantsa debut will be remembered for more than the scoreline in Washington’s long rebuild.
Dybantsa will aim to build on his first night, while Cleveland chases a fourth straight win. Check the full box score on NBA.com, and keep up with the rest of the season on our basketball coverage.
