Carmelo Anthony told AJ Dybantsa to enjoy every step of the way as he prepares for the 2026 NBA Draft.
## What happened?
Carmelo Anthony shared his advice on the *7PM in Brooklyn with Carmelo Anthony* podcast.
He warned Dybantsa about the stress of being a top pick.
The 19-year-old Dybantsa is expected to be a top pick in the draft.
## Why it matters for Carmelo Anthony
Carmelo Anthony's experience as the No. 3 overall pick in the 2003 draft makes his advice valuable.
He averaged 22.2 points per game in his one season at Syracuse.
Dybantsa averaged 25.5 points a night in his college career.
## What comes next?
Dybantsa is projected to go No. 1 overall to the Washington Wizards.
He will play alongside Trae Young and Anthony Davis in Washington.
Carmelo Anthony wants Dybantsa to take things one step at a time.
He should enjoy the draft, Summer League, and training camp.
The spotlight will be bright, but Dybantsa can live up to the hype.
And he will have to manage the expectations that come with being a top pick.
But Carmelo Anthony's advice can help him navigate the challenges.
So Dybantsa will have to stay focused on his game.
The 2026 NBA Draft will be a pivotal moment in his career.
Carmelo Anthony's words of wisdom can make a difference.
He has been in Dybantsa's shoes before.
The NBA draft is just the beginning of Dybantsa's journey.