AJ Dybantsa's new jersey number with the Wizards has a simple explanation

When AJ Dybantsa emerged as the favorite to be the number-one overall pick to the Washington Wizards, a difficult conversation was brought into light -- one that could not be ignored. If AJ was, in fact, the man for Washington, he would likely have to give up his signature number-three jersey.

It's the number he's worn in high school, AAU, and in college at BYU, but when multiple-time All-Star point guard Trae Young already has dibs on AJ's digit, there comes a point where you have to concede to the veteran.

That's exactly what the number-one pick has done. Turning the page from Provo to the pros, AJ Dybantsa will wear new colors and carry a new identity.

"I chose number four," Dybantsa flashed a grin to the Washington media. "Just new beginnings, obviously; me coming to DC. I just wanted to grab a new number. Previously, I was number 3, but I was the number one pick, and I wanted to add those together."

"Good math," was the reply to Dybantsa's successful first-grade level addition. Masterful stuff from the BYU alumni.

AJ Dybantsa's jersey is much more than a number

For basketball players, a jersey number is more than a simple digit. It's an identifier; a new identity. Moving on from the number he's worn on his chest for years is no small adjustment for a player of his caliber, and he'll almost certainly be the one to pull rank on a future youngster who hopes to claim the number 4.

Trae Young is signing a three-year extension with the Wizards this offseason -- not going anywhere -- so four may be Dybantsa's new trademark from here on out. A new number for a new era of Dybantsa.

Some notable names to wear this number in Washington include Russell Westbrook, Chris Webber, and Antawn Jamison, three excellent players for the franchise. While those who came before have certainly left their mark, Dybantsa arrives as a beacon of hope for a team that hasn't witnessed much success -- a potential MVP candidate and the flagbearer of Washington's championship candidacy.

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