On the night of the 2026 NBA Draft, BYU Cougars star AJ Dybantsa won the hearts of basketball fans.
AJ Dybantsa was projected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, and the Washington Wizards didn’t hesitate in calling his name.
But even prior to taking the stage as the top pick, Dybantsa had already shown a gesture that instantly made him a fan-favorite.
AJ Dybantsa honors Terrence Clarke with the TC 5 pin
On draft night, many prospects show off their fashion sense with immaculate clothing choices, and Dybantsa did just that with a phenomenal suit.
Speaking of his suit, one thing that caught the eye of fans was a unique TC 5 pin. So, what was the reason behind wearing that? Well, it was to honor the late Terrence Clarke.
“AJ Dybantsa is wearing a TC 5 pin in honor of the late Terrence Clarke tonight at the NBA Draft,” ClutchPoints on X reported.
Yes, it’s the same Clarke who tragically lost his life in a car accident during his freshman season with the Kentucky Wildcats.
AJ Dybantsa and Terrence Clarke knew each other from childhood
As a top high school prospect, Clarke was expected to easily get his name called when he chose to enter the NBA Draft. Instead, he lost his life at just 19.
But why did Dybantsa pay tribute to a Kentucky guard from the 2026 No. 1 overall pick, who spent his sole season in the NCAA with the Cougars?
Well, it’s because of his childhood connection with the late guard. After all, the two grew up in the Boston area and had known each other since Dybantsa was in the second grade.
In fact, Dybantsa used to see Clarke as his brother. Moreover, the Wizards star also credited Clarke for his development in the NCAA.
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