With the 2025 draft class, including notable names like Cooper Flagg, Dylan Harper, and VJ Edgecombe, now transitioning to the NBA, attention is turning towards the prospects for the 2026 draft.
Scouting for the 2026 group has been ongoing, with the initial mock draft released back in February. There`s significant excitement surrounding the top echelon of this class; some league officials suggest the top five players possess historically high star potential. Darryn Peterson, A.J. Dybantsa, Cameron Boozer, and Nate Ament are highlighted as potential franchise-altering talents.
Over the past few years, these leading prospects have matured, and we typically develop a fairly accurate gauge of the top players early on. Our June 2024 projection for the 2025 draft, for instance, correctly identified four of the top five selections and six of the first eight, following a consistent historical pattern.
The large number of college and international players from the 2025 pool who opted not to declare or withdrew before the deadline—comprising up to two dozen prospects on our top 100 list—has resulted in unusual depth in our preliminary first and second-round projections for the 2026 draft.
NBA teams still have much to learn about the prospects projected later in the lottery and the rest of the first round. This incoming class of high school seniors enrolling in college isn`t considered particularly deep, nor is the 2007-born international group becoming draft-eligible for the first time regarded as exceptionally exciting.
As is typical each year, we anticipate numerous less prominent players will significantly improve their stock during the college season, mirroring the rise of players like Cedric Coward, Nique Clifford, Walter Clayton Jr., or Danny Wolf in the recent draft cycle.
This element of unpredictability is what makes draft projections so engaging. The exact timing and location of a prospect`s emergence are never truly known, keeping NBA scouts constantly evaluating.
Analyzing the Top Contenders for the No. 1 Pick in 2026
There are four strong candidates considered capable of becoming the No. 1 overall pick: Darryn Peterson, A.J. Dybantsa, Cameron Boozer, and Nate Ament. However, most NBA teams currently view Peterson and Dybantsa as the likely top two, barring any significant surprises.
These four, among others, were extensively scouted at events like the Chipotle Nationals, Nike Hoop Summit, and McDonald`s All American events in April, as well as the USA Basketball under-19 training camp in Colorado Springs in June.
Darryn Peterson solidified his position at No. 1 following an outstanding final season of high school basketball at Prolific Prep. He proved incredibly challenging to defend in the open court, demonstrating the ability to change speeds effectively out of the pick-and-roll, hit deep pull-up 3-pointers, and finish explosively at the rim.
Peterson has also shown considerable growth as a passer and defender. Kansas coach Bill Self is expected to give the 6-foot-6 guard a central role in the offense, providing him with an excellent platform in the highly competitive Big 12 conference to reinforce his status atop the draft class.
A.J. Dybantsa, who was once considered a definite No. 1 but had a somewhat less impactful high school senior season, delivered a spectacular performance at the USA Basketball U19 training camp recently. He appeared more focused on creating opportunities for teammates than in the past, becoming a dominant force in transition and effectively guarding positions from point guards to power forwards with an unusual blend of physicality and intensity for an 18-year-old.
He scored effortlessly and made numerous sophisticated reads in the pick-and-roll, including timely pocket passes and lobs, indicating significant improvements in his decision-making and willingness to share the ball.
If Dybantsa maintains this level of play, he is almost certain to challenge for the No. 1 spot. His performance at the upcoming FIBA U19 World Cup and during his freshman season at BYU will heavily influence his projected order, depending also on Darryn Peterson`s progress.
Cameron Boozer remains a strong possibility for the top pick, particularly after his exceptional display at the Nike Hoop Summit in April. He led USA Basketball to a tough overtime victory against the World Team with 22 points, 16 rebounds, and 6 assists, anchoring the defense and showcasing his remarkable basketball IQ. However, some NBA executives express concerns, describing Boozer as physically mature early and lacking top-tier explosiveness, sometimes relying too much on `bully-ball` tactics near the basket.
To silence these doubts, he will need to consistently make outside shots and demonstrate his versatility in passing and defense. Anticipate a season from Boozer at Duke similar to Cooper Flagg`s, potentially surprising his critics.
Nate Ament is a more recent addition to the No. 1 pick discussion and is considered the furthest from reaching his full potential, partly due to his current weight of 186 pounds. Yet, 6-foot-11 wing players with his exceptional fluidity, shooting skill, defensive flexibility, and scoring ability are frequently seen as potential franchise players.
Following the McDonald`s All American Game in April, many NBA executives commented on Ament`s All-Star potential. Having started practice at Tennessee on June 17, Ament appears to be gaining weight and will be featured prominently in the SEC, giving him ample opportunity to make his case as a potential surprise No. 1 selection.
Key Returning College Prospects to Monitor
While the majority of our early first-round projections consist of rising college freshmen or international players, 11 of the top 30 prospects are returning to the NCAA. Most of these players participated in the pre-draft process this spring before deciding to stay in college. Here are some of the top returning talents NBA teams are closely evaluating:
Jayden Quaintance, C, Kentucky
Quaintance was only 17 throughout his freshman year at Arizona State, making him ineligible for this year`s draft. NBA teams closely watched his progress, drawn to his excellent physical attributes and flashes of talent as a dynamic dunker and interior finisher. His significant shot-blocking numbers (2.6 per game) were particularly impressive, especially considering his youth.
Although Quaintance is still developing his skills, notably his jump shot, and needs to refine his overall technique and court awareness, his advanced physical development for his age at the college level earns him optimism. Scouts are eager to see his development after transferring to Kentucky. He`ll have a major platform there to solidify his lottery potential, though he requires considerable refinement to be NBA-ready. His recovery speed from ACL surgery in March will be a key factor to watch.
Yaxel Lendeborg, PF/C, Michigan
Lendeborg had a breakout season last year at UAB and is transferring to Michigan, where he anticipates a significant role and a lucrative NIL deal after considering the 2025 draft. He showed positive signs at the combine, but not enough to secure a definite first-round spot. With Michigan losing considerable frontcourt talent (Danny Wolf and Vladislav Goldin), Lendeborg is poised to significantly boost his draft stock. As a late-blooming prospect combining offensive abilities, defensive playmaking, and impressive length, Lendeborg is expected to be a key player for Michigan.
Bennett Stirtz, PG, Iowa
Stirtz`s draft stock was steadily rising among NBA scouts in March, particularly after strong performances in the NCAA tournament that generated first-round buzz. Given this momentum, his decision to forgo the pre-draft process entirely this spring was unexpected. Instead, Stirtz is following his coach, Ben McCollum (formerly of Drake and Northwest Missouri State), to Iowa. He will take over the offense and have a major platform in the Big Ten to further demonstrate his abilities. He is an excellent playmaker and is expected to be one of the top guards nationally.
Isaiah Evans, SG, Duke
Evans, a five-star recruit, didn`t consistently break through last season at Duke, playing a limited role on a strong team before deciding to return. As a perimeter shooting specialist with a slender build, Evans will likely have more scoring opportunities on a revamped Blue Devils roster, allowing NBA teams a better look at his potential. His limitations in decision-making and defense hindered his consistent playing time last season, and he must improve in these areas to secure a first-round projection next year. While his shooting is a genuine NBA asset, he will need to work to convince scouts of his overall game.
Tahaad Pettiford, PG, Auburn
Pettiford impressed on the first day of the NBA combine, and though he didn`t secure the first-round guarantee he sought, he reminded scouts of his talent upon his return to Auburn. He should have greater freedom to run the offense next season, as the Tigers have significant backcourt minutes available. Pettiford`s scoring and explosiveness give him a chance to succeed despite being undersized (6-1, 175 pounds). NBA teams hope he will enhance his playmaking and defensive abilities. His size projects him as a potential spark plug off the bench in the NBA. However, if Pettiford can change the narrative about his overall upside, he could still land in the first round.
2026 NBA Mock Draft: Top 10 Projections
The projected order for the top 10 picks in 2026 is based on a combination of factors, including betting odds, power rankings, and scouting projections.
1. Washington Wizards: Darryn Peterson, PG/SG, 6-6
Age: 18.4 | Freshman, Kansas
Peterson was arguably the top high school player last season, possessing a highly sought-after mix of size, length, explosiveness, and offensive creation skills. He`s an effective passer, capable defensive playmaker, and a gifted scorer. Heading to play under Bill Self at Kansas, Peterson will be the focal point of an offense designed around his dynamic abilities, giving him every chance to solidify his position as the top prospect for the next draft.
(Note: This pick is top-8 protected; it conveys to the New York Knicks if it falls between picks 9 and 30.)
2. Utah Jazz: A.J. Dybantsa, SG/SF, 6-9
Age: 18.4 | Freshman, BYU
Dybantsa has consistently filled the stat sheet wherever he`s played, though he had a less dominant season last year at Utah Prep. He looked considerably better at the USA Basketball U19 World Cup camp in June, playing more efficiently and impacting both ends of the court. NBA teams highly value 6-9 wings like Dybantsa who can score from anywhere, pass effectively on the move, and defend multiple positions. Now enrolled at BYU, he will have the keys to the offense and the chance to demonstrate he`s worthy of the No. 1 pick, a process that could begin soon at the FIBA U19 World Cup.
3. Brooklyn Nets: Cameron Boozer, PF, 6-9
Age: 17.9 | Freshman, Duke
Boozer is among the most accomplished high school players observed in recent history, boasting a winning track record unmatched by most prospects. He possesses an exceptional understanding of the game, capable of handling the ball, passing, shooting, and defending multiple positions. He plays with relentless physicality, excels at rebounding, and takes pride in dominating his matchups inside. His outside shooting has improved significantly over the past year. Boozer`s freshman production could potentially rival Cooper Flagg`s, positioning him as a legitimate contender for national Player of the Year honors, even if some NBA executives question his long-term ceiling.
(Note: This pick is top-8 protected; it conveys to the Oklahoma City Thunder if it falls between picks 9 and 30.)
4. Charlotte Hornets: Nate Ament, SF, 6-11
Age: 18.5 | Freshman, Tennessee
Ament is a late bloomer who has grown significantly in height over the past year, now listed at 6-11. He is an outstanding shooter who has improved his passing and defensive versatility. His ability to generate his own shot almost at will gives him arguably the highest potential of anyone in this class. He is expected to be a primary option at Tennessee, providing NBA teams with ample opportunity to evaluate if he can become a consistently efficient, winning player in the demanding SEC conference.
5. Sacramento Kings: Mikel Brown Jr., PG, 6-4
Age: 18.8 | Committed to Louisville
Having grown from 5-10 to 6-4 during his high school career, Brown displays dynamic scoring instincts and considerable talent as a ball handler, passer, and outside shooter. Currently listed at 176 pounds, he is inconsistent as a finisher, defender, and decision-maker. His ability to handle the physical demands of college basketball on both offense and defense will be crucial to his productivity as a freshman at Louisville.
6. Memphis Grizzlies (via Phoenix): Jayden Quaintance, PF/C, 6-10
Age: 17.9 | Sophomore, Kentucky
Younger than several highly-rated rising high school seniors, Quaintance had a very productive freshman year at Arizona State, ranking among the top shot blockers in college basketball. He possesses a strong build, large hands, a 7-foot-5 wingspan, and is exceptionally mobile. NBA teams will be closely watching his recovery and return to form after ACL surgery in March, which might lead to a slower start at Kentucky.
7. Chicago Bulls: Karim Lopez, SF/PF, 6-9
Age: 18.2 | New Zealand Breakers (NBL)
Lopez had a successful season with the New Zealand Breakers in the NBL Next Star program, showing notable progress with his outside shooting. At 6-9, he combines guard skills with the physicality and effort needed to defend larger players. Scouts are keen to see his potential development in his second year in the Australian league, where he`s likely to take on a more significant role.
8. Atlanta Hawks (via New Orleans): Caleb Wilson, PF, 6-9
Age: 18.9 | Freshman, North Carolina
Standing 6-9, Wilson has the physical tools with an excellent frame, length, and developing two-way versatility that could translate into a highly intriguing long-term prospect. He`s effective pushing the ball off defensive rebounds and passing on the move. While his intensity and outside shooting require improvement, he possesses inherent physical advantages and significant long-term potential.
9. Memphis Grizzlies: Dame Sarr, SG/SF, 6-8
Age: 19.0 | Freshman, Duke
Sarr aims to follow the path of other highly-regarded international prospects like Kasparas Jakucionis and Egor Demin, leaving the Spanish development system to join a revamped Duke squad in college basketball. The 6-8 wing is a versatile defender who has shown promising flashes as a perimeter shooter, passer, and shot creator in the EuroLeague and ACB last year, though he is still developing in several areas, including his decision-making.
10. Miami Heat: Dash Daniels, SG, 6-6
Age: 17.5 | Melbourne United (NBL)
Daniels is likely to be the youngest prospect in the 2026 draft class, turning 18 in mid-December, which makes predicting how he will handle the demands of the Australian NBL next season challenging. He shares many strengths and weaknesses with his brother Dyson (a guard for the Hawks) but is bigger, stronger, and has greater length at the same age, which is beneficial for his NBA projection. Similar to his brother, he is an excellent defender and is still improving as a ball handler, shooter, and scorer. However, he possesses a strong feel for the game, plays with good pace, and is unselfish. Based on his recent play in the NBL1 league, he appears to be making progress with his shooting.
Extended 2026 NBA Draft Big Board
- Chris Cenac Jr., PF/C, Houston, freshman
- Darius Acuff, PG, Arkansas, freshman
- Nikolas Khamenia, SF/PF, Duke, freshman
- Yaxel Lendeborg, PF/C, Michigan, super senior
- Bennett Stirtz, PG, Iowa, senior
- Isaiah Evans, SG/SF, Duke, sophomore
- Sergio De Larrea, PG/SG, Valencia (Spain)
- Koa Peat, PF, Arizona, freshman
- Braylon Mullins, SG, UConn, freshman
- Tahaad Pettiford, PG, Auburn, sophomore
- Joseph Tugler, PF/C, Houston, junior
- Aday Mara, C, Michigan, junior
- Tounde Yessoufou, SF/PF, Baylor, freshman
- Andrej Kostic, SG, Kansas State, freshman
- Ognjen Srzentic, SG/SF, Mega Superbet (Serbia)
- Hannes Steinbach, PF/C, Washington, freshman
- Motiejus Krivas, C, Arizona, junior
- Labaron Philon, PG, Alabama, sophomore
- Alex Condon, C, Florida, junior
- Braden Smith, PG, Purdue, senior
- Boogie Fland, PG, Florida, sophomore
- Karter Knox, SG/SF, Arkansas, sophomore
- Morez Johnson Jr., PF/C, Michigan, sophomore
- Zuby Ejiofor, C, St. John`s, senior
- Alex Karaban, PF, Connecticut, senior
- Dailyn Swain, SG/SF, Texas, junior
- JT Toppin, PF, Texas Tech, junior
- Patrick Ngongba II, C, Duke, sophomore
- Miles Byrd, SG, San Diego State, junior
- Thomas Haugh, SF/PF, Florida, junior
- Darrion Williams, SF/PF, NC State, senior
- Derrion Reid, SF/PF, Oklahoma, sophomore
- Moustapha Thiam, C, Cincinnati, sophomore
- Henri Veesaar, C, North Carolina, junior
- Andrej Stojakovic, SG/SF, Illinois, junior
- Kam Williams, SF/PF, Kentucky, sophomore
- Ian Jackson, SG, St. John`s, sophomore
- Tomislav Ivisic, C, Illinois, junior
- Mackenzie Mgbako, PF, Texas A&M, junior
- Milos Uzan, PG, Houston, senior
- Wesley Yates III, SG, Washington, junior
- Ryan Conwell, SG, Louisville, senior
- Nolan Winter, C, Wisconsin, junior
- Magoon Gwath, C, San Diego State, sophomore
- Donnie Freeman, PF, Syracuse, sophomore
- Flory Bidunga, C, Kansas, sophomore
- Kwame Evans Jr., PF, Oregon, junior
- Tobi Lawal, PF, Virginia Tech, senior
- Richie Saunders, SG, BYU, senior
- Zvonimir Ivisic, PF/C, Illinois, junior