Anthony Davis is entering his first full season with the Washington Wizards focused on changing the team’s identity, establishing a defensive standard and helping the franchise’s young players.
Speaking during Wizards media day on Monday, September 28, Davis said he is excited to return to the court after not playing since January because of a hand injury.
“I’m very excited for a season,” Davis said. “Get to play basketball again, haven’t played since January with a hand injury. So to be able to get back on the floor, it’s gonna be very exciting and very fun.”
Davis said the excitement extends beyond games, with training camp providing the first opportunity to build chemistry with Washington’s revamped roster.
“Starting training camp tomorrow, starting this process with these guys,” Davis said. “Obviously, it’s a different look for the team than what has been the past couple of years. So the mentality and the discipline, the consistency, the urgency that we’re gonna have coming into camp.”
One of Davis’ priorities will be helping AJ Dybantsa adjust to the expectations that come with being the No. 1 overall pick. Davis had a similar role with Cooper Flagg in Dallas last season and said Dybantsa has already shown the approach needed to develop.
“They want it. They want to learn. They want to get better. They ask the questions, the right questions,” Davis said.
Davis believes Dybantsa has the physical and technical tools to make an impact immediately, while also acknowledging that the rookie will face the normal challenges of entering the NBA.
“He’s got all the tools to be successful in this league,” Davis said. “But he’s a special talent. He’s a very special talent. Can defend, can make any shot.”
Davis has also seen Dybantsa’s athleticism firsthand during workouts, particularly his ability to elevate quickly.
“He’s a very quick jumper,” Davis said. “He’ll remind me of when I was younger. He can jump for a pump, land, jump right back up and block a shot.”
The veteran big man said Dybantsa’s willingness to work and listen has stood out to him, while emphasizing that the rookie will experience both positive and difficult moments during his first season.
“It’s gonna be ups and downs for him just like every rookie coming in,” Davis said. “But he has enough to do some special things in this league.”
Davis also outlined the standard he wants to establish defensively. With Washington featuring several long and athletic players, he believes the Wizards have the personnel to become one of the NBA’s better defensive teams.
“I think we should be a top 10 defensive team for sure,” Davis said. “With the guys that we have and the ability that we have on the defensive end.”
Davis pointed to Dybantsa, Alex Sarr, Bilal Coulibaly, Kyshawn George and Deandre Ayton among the players who can contribute defensively, while stressing the importance of team-wide help.
“We’re going to cover each other and make sure that we always have help,” Davis said. “I’m excited about how we can be defensively, but that’s our goal. We’re going to be a top defensive team.”
Davis also discussed his own future in Washington, with his current contract situation extending through the 2026-27 season.
“When the season is over,” Davis said when asked how he will decide whether to remain with the Wizards. “They’re gonna go through the season and try to do what I do at a high level. And then, when it’s over, sit down and have those conversations again with the front office.”
