Heading into the ultimate stretch of the school season, the 2026 NBA Draft image has come into clearer focus. Lengthy seen as one of many deepest lessons in years, the group continues to ship, with Darryn Peterson transferring forward of AJ Dybantsa over the previous couple of months after exhibiting the best long-term upside. ACC freshman bigs Cameron Boozer and Caleb Wilson have additionally strengthened their standing whereas carrying their respective groups, and the board is starting to stabilize as manufacturing separates prospects from projections, with guards like Kingston Flemings, Mikel Brown, and Keaton Wagler rising by effectivity, management, and management. With 20 freshmen projected within the first spherical, this replace displays a stronger snapshot of an extremely gifted class taking form.
6’5”, 195, PG/SG, Kansas, Fr.2025–26 Stats: 13 GP, 20.5 PPG, 48.9 FG%, 41.9 3P%, 79.1 FT%, 4.2 RPG, 1.7 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.5 BPG, 1.6 TO
Peterson is an extremely dynamic scoring guard whose mix of burst, power, and shot-making has translated at any time when he has been on the ground. He contains a fast first step, deep pull-up vary, and the power to attain in any respect three ranges, constantly placing strain on defenses each on and off the ball. Even with restricted minutes and availability, he has produced effectively, flashing the kind of offensive gravity that warps coverages. His positional measurement and energy are additional enhanced by a rare 8’7” standing attain, giving him uncommon bodily benefits for a combo guard and legit two-way versatility.
Restricted to simply over half of Kansas’ video games as a consequence of leg points and cramping, Peterson has been managed on one thing of a snap depend, which has barely sophisticated evaluations. Even so, his influence has been plain, highlighted by a clutch efficiency in opposition to Texas Tech through which he buried two late three-pointers to seal the win. The sturdiness questions are the one issue giving some scouts transient pause, however when wholesome, Peterson has separated himself as essentially the most explosive and scalable offensive expertise within the class. A participant we rated No. 2 lengthy earlier than the consensus caught up, he now initiatives as a franchise-level guard and the present favourite to be chosen first general within the 2026 NBA Draft.
NBA Comparability: James Harden / Devin Booker
2. Atlanta Hawks (from New Orleans) – AJ Dybantsa
6’9”, 210, SF/PF, BYU, Fr.2025–26 Stats: 23 GP, 24.0 PPG, 54.0 FG%, 37.8 3P%, 74.9 FT%, 6.3 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.4 BPG, 2.8 TO
Dybantsa has been one of the crucial constant and dominant gamers in faculty basketball all season, combining elite bodily instruments with a steadily increasing offensive ability set. A fluid, explosive athlete, he at present leads the nation in scoring at 24.0 factors per sport whereas carrying a major offensive position with sturdy effectivity. His size, anticipation, and motor translate defensively, the place he rotates with goal, disrupts passing lanes, and holds his personal throughout a number of positions. Offensively, he continues to function as a real level ahead, dealing with comfortably, initiating units, and creating alternatives for teammates with enhancing imaginative and prescient and composure.
Whereas his perimeter taking pictures was inconsistent early, his general effectivity has climbed, and he has developed a extremely dependable mid-range package deal that includes turnaround jumpers, pull-ups, and dribble counters to create separation in opposition to slower defenders. He assaults downhill with energy and stability, finishes above the rim, rebounds his place, and seamlessly shifts between scoring and facilitating roles. Pushed by the rise of Darryn Peterson on the prime of the board, Dybantsa has responded with regular, high-level manufacturing, reinforcing his profile as a franchise-caliber expertise with perennial All-Star upside and uncommon multi-positional versatility.
NBA Comparability: Tracy McGrady
6’10”, 250, PF, Duke, Fr.2025–26 Stats: 23 GP, 23.3 PPG, 57.6 FG%, 38.0 3P%, 76.2 FT%, 10.0 RPG, 4.0 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.5 BPG, 2.3 TO
Boozer has been one of many steadiest and most dominant gamers in faculty basketball all season, combining power, contact, motor, and elite fundamentals in a means that constantly interprets to profitable. A bodily prepared freshman, he’s averaging 23.3 factors and 10.0 rebounds per sport whereas working comfortably as a face-up scorer, inside finisher, and offensive hub. Whereas he isn’t an explosive athlete, his really feel for the sport is outstanding, permitting him to attain effectively, exploit mismatches, and stretch the ground with improved three-point taking pictures. He’s a sophisticated passer for his place, making fast reads out of doubles and constantly discovering cutters and shooters, and his manufacturing, consistency, and influence have made him the present odds-on favourite for Nationwide Participant of the Yr.
Defensively, Boozer is sturdy and disciplined, holding his floor within the publish, speaking nicely, and contesting photographs with timing and positioning relatively than vertical pop. His motor runs sizzling, and his rebounding reliability makes him a close to automated double-double risk. Some evaluators draw Tim Duncan–type comparisons primarily based on his fundamentals and demeanor, however even a profession trajectory just like Al Horford, a former No. 3 choose and five-time All-Star, would characterize an impressive final result. Boozer’s polish, consistency, and excessive ground make him one of many most secure projections within the 2026 class, with long-term upside as a 20-and-10 caliber frontcourt anchor constructed on intelligence, toughness, and ability.
6’4”, 190, PG, Houston, Fr.2025–26 Stats: 23 GP, 17.1 PPG, 51.6 FG%, 36.5 3P%, 82.6 FT%, 3.5 RPG, 5.4 APG, 1.8 SPG, 1.9 TO
Flemings has shortly emerged as one of the crucial impactful freshman lead guards within the nation, pairing elite athleticism with enhancing effectivity and rising command of Houston’s offense. An explosive downhill creator with a decent deal with and wonderful burst, he constantly generates penetration and finishes above the rim with power and creativity. His perimeter taking pictures has been an necessary growth, flattening mid-30s from three whereas forcing defenders to respect him off the ball and opening driving lanes the place his pace and physicality turn out to be main weapons. He performs with confidence and edge as Houston’s major initiator, exhibiting consolation pulling up, collapsing defenses, and making well timed reads out of ball screens.
Like most younger high-usage guards, there are stretches the place his aggressiveness results in compelled drives or formidable selections, however his assist-to-turnover numbers replicate encouraging management for a freshman. Continued power positive aspects will assist him end by contact and maintain up defensively in opposition to older guards, although his quickness, competitiveness, and exercise already enable him to strain the ball and create disruption. Flemings’ fast growth has pushed him firmly into the higher lottery dialog, and with Houston competing at a national-title degree, his management, shot creation, and big-moment poise proceed to strengthen his case as a long-term NBA lead guard with pace, scoring punch, and playmaking versatility.
NBA Comparability: De’Aaron Fox
6’10”, 215, PF, North Carolina, Fr.2025–26 Stats: 23 GP, 20.2 PPG, 9.6 RPG, 2.8 APG, 58.5 FG%, 26.9 3P%, 71.4 FT%, 1.3 BPG, 1.6 SPG
Wilson has established himself as one of the crucial dependable and constantly productive freshmen within the nation, delivering environment friendly scoring and robust inside presence on a nightly foundation. A fluid, bouncy ahead with wonderful measurement and mobility, he performs with a relentless motor and continues to influence video games as each a rim runner and face-up risk. Now bodily stronger at 6’10”, 215 kilos, he finishes above the rim with ease, thrives as a lob goal, and has expanded his means to attain off the dribble with improved consolation attacking closeouts and creating when performs break down.
Whereas his three-point share signifies continued growth is required as a fringe shooter, the contact and mechanics counsel room for progress. His improved body permits him to soak up contact, rebound successfully, and defend a number of positions, giving him respectable two-way versatility. Wilson constantly creates mismatches together with his measurement, mobility, and exercise degree, and his competitiveness reveals up possession after possession. With regular manufacturing, defensive influence, and a transparent upward trajectory, he has solidified his standing as a top-five expertise within the 2026 class and one of many most secure high-end prospects coming into the stretch run.
NBA Comparability: Jermaine O’Neal / Chris Bosh
6’4”, 190, PG, Louisville, Fr.Stats (16 GP): 17.2 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 5.1 APG, 39.8 FG%, 31.4 3P%, 81.9 FT%
Brown stays one of the crucial expert and intriguing lead guards within the 2026 class, controlling tempo with poise and taking part in with a quiet confidence that reveals in his decision-making. Extra fast and shifty than outright quick, he excels at creating separation with change of tempo, hesitation strikes, and tight ball dealing with. He generates offense effectively out of ball screens, the place his pull-up taking pictures and shot creativity stand out. His signature efficiency got here in Louisville’s win over NC State, the place he exploded for 45 factors and knocked down 10-of-16 from three, reinforcing the elite shot-making means and scoring ceiling that made him such a extremely regarded prospect. His mechanics, contact, and shot problem profile counsel his perimeter effectivity ought to proceed trending upward.
Sturdiness stays the important thing variable in Brown’s analysis. Again points which have lingered over the previous three seasons have restricted his availability at instances, making medical evaluations a focus for NBA groups. He has had stretches the place staying on the ground has been a problem, and the way he finishes the season will play a significant position in figuring out his draft vary. Even so, his 6’7” wingspan, superior deal with, and playmaking instincts enable him to create high quality appears for himself and others. If his well being stabilizes and the taking pictures consistency holds, Brown carries one of many highest offensive ceilings within the class and will emerge as one of many draft’s finest worth alternatives if medical issues trigger some groups to hesitate.
NBA Comparability: Darius Garland / Trae Younger
7. Dallas Mavericks – Nate Ament
6’10”, 205, SF/PF, Tennessee, Fr.2025–26 Stats: 23 GP, 17.6 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 2.5 APG, 42.8 FG%, 33.3 3P%, 76.8 FT%
Ament is a easy, fluid ahead whose mixture of measurement, mobility, and perimeter ability makes him one of many extra intriguing long-term prospects within the freshman class. At 6’10” with pure coordination and a clear taking pictures stroke, he matches the trendy NBA mould as a giant wing/ahead able to spacing the ground and attacking closeouts. His manufacturing has grown as his position has expanded, and he’s proven the power to attain at a number of ranges whereas contributing on the glass and flashing connective passing means. His lengthy strides and physique management enable him to cowl floor simply in transition and create offense off angled drives, whereas his consolation taking part in off the ball helps him generate environment friendly alternatives throughout the circulation.
The following step in his growth is including power, physicality, and higher offensive assertiveness. He can nonetheless be knocked off spots by stronger defenders, and persevering with to enhance his means to create separation and produce constantly within the half courtroom shall be necessary to maximizing his upside. As his body fills out and his confidence grows, his size, taking pictures contact, and mobility ought to turn out to be extra impactful on each ends. Defensively, he reveals encouraging versatility, utilizing his attain and motion expertise to contest photographs and guard a number of positions, at the same time as his approach and consistency proceed to develop. With continued bodily progress and expanded self-creation, Ament initiatives as a high-upside stretch ahead with important long-term two-way potential.
NBA Comparability: Jonathan Isaac / Lamar Odom
6’6”, 195, SG, USC, Fr.2025–26 Stats: 6 GP, 13.8 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 1.2 APG, 35.4 FG%, 27.6 3P%, 65.4 FT%
Arenas entered faculty as one of the crucial naturally gifted scoring guards within the freshman class, however his season has been formed extra by restoration than rhythm. A torn meniscus suffered in July, mixed with the aftereffects of accidents from a severe automobile accident in April 2025, has restricted each his availability and continuity. The inconsistent taking pictures splits replicate rust and restricted sport reps, however the underlying expertise has nonetheless surfaced in flashes, together with a 29-point outing in opposition to Indiana that reminded scouts of his superior shot-making instincts, confidence, and talent to generate offense in any respect three ranges.
Previous to the accidents, Arenas was seen as a mid-lottery expertise due to his deep vary, pure scoring really feel, and flexibility as a combo guard able to creating each on and off the ball. His pre-injury movie reveals a dynamic offensive weapon with burst, polished pull-up means, and robust off-ball instincts. Sturdiness and missed growth time shall be central to his analysis, with groups inserting heavy emphasis on medicals and late-season progress. If he regains rhythm and confidence, the long-term upside stays important. Whether or not he declares or opts for one more yr shall be a key resolution, but when he enters the draft, Arenas profiles as a high-risk, high-reward expertise whose ceiling nonetheless far exceeds his present manufacturing.
NBA Comparability: Latrell Sprewell / Jamal Crawford
6’6”, 185, PG/SG, Illinois, Fr.2025–26 Stats: 24 GP, 17.8 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 4.2 APG, 45.9 FG%, 43.3 3P%, 80.9 FT%
Wagler has been one of many greatest surprises in faculty basketball this season, rising from a evenly regarded recruit to one of the crucial productive and intriguing freshmen within the nation. Regardless of a slender body and loads of bodily growth nonetheless forward, he performs with superior poise, confidence, and a scorer’s intuition that belies his expertise. His 46-point explosion in opposition to Purdue served as a defining efficiency, highlighting his deep vary, shot-making versatility, and talent to take over in opposition to high-level competitors. What he lacks in power or explosiveness, he compensates for with tempo, craft, and a mature understanding of tips on how to management the sport.
His enchantment as a prospect lies within the mix of elite taking pictures, really feel, and decision-making. Wagler knocks down over 43 p.c from three, areas the ground naturally, and makes fast, correct reads as each a scorer and facilitator, hardly ever forcing the motion. He impacts the sport even when defenses key on him, exhibiting sturdy composure and effectivity for a freshman carrying a significant offensive position. The following step shall be proving he can constantly create separation and deal with elevated physicality in opposition to elite athletes, however the offensive basis and basketball IQ are clear. With added power and expertise, Wagler has positioned himself as one of the crucial intriguing guard prospects within the 2026 class, providing a high-skill profile with respectable long-term NBA upside.
NBA Comparability: Tyrese Halburton
6’6”, 190, SG, UConn, Fr.2025–26 Stats: 17 GP, 11.7 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 1.4 APG, 47.4 FG%, 38.4 3P%, 81.3 FT%
Mullins has put collectively a powerful freshman marketing campaign, exhibiting a refined basis constructed round really feel, size, and environment friendly perimeter taking pictures. At 6’6” with an extended wingspan and stable athleticism, he presents a perfect bodily profile for an NBA wing. His clear mechanics translate each off the catch and on the transfer, and his near-40 p.c three-point taking pictures displays pure contact and confidence spacing the ground. Taking part in inside construction and making fast, unselfish selections, he has steadily earned a bigger position as his consistency and offensive confidence have grown all through the season.
Defensively, Mullins’ instruments have been equally encouraging. His size, lateral mobility, and competitiveness enable him to protect a number of perimeter positions whereas producing exercise in passing lanes and contributing throughout the stat sheet. Continued power growth shall be necessary as he adjusts to bodily matchups and improves his means to complete by contact. Even so, his mixture of measurement, athleticism, defensive upside, and dependable exterior taking pictures provides him a extremely intriguing long-term profile. With continued progress and expanded offensive assertiveness, Mullins initiatives as a flexible two-way wing whose worth is anchored by his perimeter taking pictures and positional flexibility.
NBA Comparability: Mike Dunleavy
6’4”, 185, PG/SG, Arizona, Fr.2025–26 Stats: 24 GP, 15.7 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 2.6 APG, 50.8 FG%, 38.1 3P%, 78.8 FT%
Burries has established himself as one of the crucial productive and environment friendly freshman guards within the nation, steadily rising into a bigger position on an undefeated Arizona crew. A robust, managed combo guard, he performs with wonderful tempo and stability, scoring effectively in any respect three ranges whereas making sensible selections with the ball. His effectivity numbers replicate mature shot choice and a powerful understanding of tips on how to play throughout the circulation of an offense, and he has confirmed comfy working each on and off the ball. Burries has been particularly efficient of late, highlighted by a 29-point efficiency in opposition to BYU that underscored his confidence and talent to shoulder offensive duty when wanted.
Past his scoring, Burries brings constant two-way worth. He competes defensively, makes use of his power and instincts to remain related on the perimeter, and impacts the sport as a rebounder and secondary playmaker. His willingness to maneuver the ball, make the appropriate learn, and elevate teammates provides to his general effectiveness. Persevering with to enhance his means to create separation in opposition to elite athletes shall be an necessary subsequent step, however his mixture of effectivity, toughness, and really feel has firmly positioned him as a rising guard prospect with long-term NBA rotation upside.
NBA Comparability: Jalen Suggs
12. Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder (from LA Clippers) – Chris Cenac
6’11”, 240, PF/C, Houston, Fr.2025–26 Stats: 23 GP, 9.8 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 0.8 APG, 50.5 FG%, 37.5 3P%, 63.3 FT%
Cenac stays one of many extra intriguing long-term large males within the class, providing a uncommon mix of measurement, mobility, and rising perimeter ability for a 6’11” frontcourt prospect. His position inside Houston’s structured system has stored his scoring numbers modest, however his influence reveals up by power performs, rebounding, and environment friendly ending across the rim. He runs the ground extraordinarily nicely, covers floor simply in transition, and performs above the rim as a vertical risk. The flexibility to step out and convert almost 38 p.c from three, together with flashes of face-up consolation, highlights the offensive upside that makes him such an interesting developmental prospect. His coordination and motion means for his measurement enable him to function comfortably in house and match the profile of a contemporary floor-spacing large.
Consistency stays the first developmental focus, as his manufacturing and general influence can fluctuate whereas he continues adjusting to the bodily and psychological calls for of the school degree. Defensively, his mobility provides him respectable switching potential and the power to contest in house, although his timing, power, and presence as a rim protector are nonetheless evolving. The mix of taking pictures flashes and athletic versatility is eye-catching, significantly for a participant together with his body, and you will need to keep in mind that frontcourt gamers typically take longer to develop bodily and skill-wise. With continued power positive aspects, improved defensive really feel, and a extra constant position, Cenac initiatives as a high-upside fashionable large whose instruments and ability trajectory give him important long-term NBA potential.
NBA Comparability: Kel’el Ware
13. San Antonio Spurs (by way of Chicago) – Darius Acuff
6’3”, 190, PG, Arkansas, Fr.Stats (23 GP): 20.5 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 6.3 APG, 49.0 FG%, 41.6 3P%, 77.9 FT%
Acuff has established himself as one of the crucial productive and assertive freshman lead guards within the nation, averaging over 20 factors and greater than six assists whereas carrying a significant offensive burden for Arkansas. A robust, bodily guard with wonderful tempo management, he constantly pressures defenses by getting downhill, utilizing his sturdy body and tight deal with to create separation, take up contact, and generate high quality appears. His confidence and command stand out, as he performs with the presence of a real ground chief who embraces late-game duty. The taking pictures has been a significant power, changing over 40 p.c from three, which forces defenses to increase and opens driving lanes the place his power and alter of speeds are handiest.
Equally spectacular has been his effectivity as a decision-maker, posting a powerful 6.3-to-2.0 assist-to-turnover ratio regardless of excessive utilization. That degree of management displays rising maturity and his means to stability scoring aggression with playmaking tasks. How he navigates the late-season stretch and postseason shall be necessary in additional validating his management and talent to raise a crew in high-leverage settings. Defensively, his physicality permits him to compete on the level of assault, although enhancing consistency navigating screens and containing faster guards stays an space for progress. Along with his mix of measurement, toughness, taking pictures effectivity, and command of the offense, Acuff initiatives as a high-ceiling lead guard able to producing paint strain, creating late-clock offense, and organizing an NBA backcourt.
NBA Comparability: Isaiah Collier
6’4”, 185, PG, Alabama, So.2025–26 Stats: 22 GP, 21.5 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 4.9 APG, 50.9 FG%, 39.1 3P%, 76.4 FT%
Philon has constructed on a powerful freshman marketing campaign to turn out to be the primary non-freshman off the board on this vary, rising as one of the crucial productive and dynamic guards in faculty basketball. Now averaging over 21 factors per sport in an expanded position, he combines good positional measurement with elite end-to-end pace and a powerful first step to constantly strain defenses. His added power has improved his means to soak up contact, whereas his tight deal with and change-of-pace enable him to control defenders and function successfully in ball-screen conditions. The three-point taking pictures has been a significant step ahead, climbing to just about 40 p.c and giving him a much more full scoring profile.
The following section of Philon’s growth facilities on decision-making effectivity, as his 2.8 turnovers per sport replicate the challenges that include excessive utilization and aggressive playmaking. He can often power reads or overextend possessions, and enhancing his management as a facilitator shall be key to maximizing his worth as a lead guard. Even so, his mixture of pace, scoring punch, improved taking pictures, and offensive creation makes him one of many extra intriguing backcourt prospects within the class. If the turnover charge stabilizes whereas the effectivity holds, Philon initiatives as a high-level offensive guard whose tempo, craft, and shot-making translate nicely to the trendy NBA.
NBA Comparability: Dennis Schröder
6’6”, 180, SG/SF, Duke, So.Stats (23 GP): 14.0 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 1.3 APG, 40.7 FG%, 33.3 3P%, 88.3 FT%
Evans has continued his sophomore development, exhibiting improved confidence and offensive polish whereas solidifying his position as certainly one of Duke’s major perimeter scoring threats. A easy, pure shot-maker, he has expanded past a spot-up position, including a extra dependable midrange pull-up, improved power ending by contact, and flashes of secondary shot creation. His size and excessive launch enable him to generate clear appears over contests, and he strikes effectively with out the ball, navigating screens and discovering rhythm throughout the circulation of the offense. His elite free-throw share reinforces the mushy contact and taking pictures basis that anchor his long-term worth as a scoring wing.
The first questions surrounding Evans middle on his general influence past scoring, as his present manufacturing in rebounding, playmaking, and bodily presence stays modest. Continued power growth ought to assist him broaden his contributions, significantly on the defensive finish, the place his size already permits him to contest photographs and guard a number of perimeter positions. Whereas he’s naturally lean and more likely to stay on the slender facet, he has proven improved consolation dealing with bodily play in comparison with final season. Along with his taking pictures means, growing off-the-dribble sport, and scoring instincts, Evans initiatives as a prototypical floor-spacing wing with long-term beginning upside.
NBA Comparability: Brandon Ingram
16. Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder (by way of Miami) – Thomas Haugh
6’9”, 210, SF/PF, Florida, Jr.Stats (23 GP): 17.8 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 2.0 APG, 47.6 FG%, 35.2 3P%, 74.0 FT%
Haugh has stepped comfortably right into a considerably expanded position this season, establishing himself as a gentle, high-minutes contributor whereas carrying a a lot bigger offensive duty. Taking part in almost 34 minutes per evening, he has turn out to be one of many extra dependable high-energy forwards in faculty basketball, producing effectively whereas impacting a number of phases of the sport. At 6’9”, he brings sturdy mobility and positional versatility, excelling as a cutter, transition finisher, and opportunistic scorer who operates successfully throughout the circulation of the offense. His improved three-point taking pictures has added an necessary layer to his profile, serving to stretch defenses and enhancing his general offensive worth.
Defensively, Haugh presents reliable multi-positional utility, switching throughout matchups, anticipating actions nicely, and competing with a constant motor. His rebounding manufacturing and general exercise replicate a participant able to influencing possessions while not having touches. Whereas he isn’t a major shot creator and should show his perimeter taking pictures holds over a full season, his expertise, maturity, and position acceptance strengthen his projection from a readiness standpoint. Haugh’s motor, really feel, and profitable influence make him an interesting plug-and-play ahead with a transparent pathway to a long-term NBA rotation position.
NBA Comparability: David Lee
6’10”, 240, PF, Washington Fr.Stats (21 GP): 17.5 PPG, 11.2 RPG, 1.5 APG, 54.2 FG%, 35.1 3P%, 75.9 FT%
Steinbach has established himself as one of the crucial productive and bodily imposing freshman bigs within the nation, constantly controlling the paint together with his measurement, power, and relentless motor. At 6’10”, 240 kilos, he performs with a mature inside presence, anchoring the glass and producing double-doubles with regularity. He runs the ground nicely for his measurement, carves out deep place early in possessions, and finishes by contact with contact and endurance. His nightly manufacturing displays a participant who understands tips on how to leverage his body, compete bodily, and influence profitable by effort and consistency.
Offensively, Steinbach has added an necessary dimension by exhibiting credible perimeter vary, connecting on over 35 p.c from three and forcing defenses to account for him past the paint. That inside-out scoring means, paired with elite rebounding, provides him a well-rounded offensive basis. He additionally flashes stable really feel as a passer from the elbows and brief rolls, serving to hold the offense flowing. Defensively, he depends extra on positioning, power, and anticipation than vertical explosiveness, and enhancing lateral mobility and foot pace in house shall be key as the extent rises. Even so, his mixture of bodily maturity, constant manufacturing, rebounding dominance, and rising taking pictures contact factors to a reliable, bodily large with clear NBA rotation potential.
NBA Comparability: Tom Gugliotta
18. Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder (by way of Philadelphia) – Meleek Thomas
6’5”, 185, PG/SG, Arkansas, Fr.Stats (23 GP): 15.0 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 2.7 APG, 42.2 FG%, 39.1 3P%, 84.2 FT%
Thomas has established himself as a pure scorer, bringing a singular mix of tempo, craft, and shot-making that makes him troublesome to include. His herky-jerky type retains defenders off stability, utilizing hesitation strikes, sudden bursts, and lengthy, slippery strides to create separation off the dribble. A easy and assured perimeter shooter, he’s flattening almost 40 p.c from three whereas changing over 84 p.c on the line, reinforcing the long-term worth of his scoring profile. His means to vary speeds permits him to assault angles, get downhill, or rise comfortably into pull-ups, giving him a number of methods to generate offense throughout the circulation.
At 6’5”, Thomas has ample measurement however initiatives extra as a combo guard than a real lead, and including power shall be necessary to raised take up contact and deal with bodily defenders. He’s considerably undersized for a full-time two-guard position, however his scoring instincts, taking pictures contact, and quickness assist offset these issues. Defensively, he reveals lively palms and aggressive power, and he continues to flash secondary playmaking means. With continued bodily growth and improved decision-making consistency, Thomas presents an intriguing offensive package deal and initiatives as a flexible scoring weapon able to offering instantaneous offense on the subsequent degree.
NBA Comparability: Leandro Barbosa / Jordan Hawkins
6’10”, 240, PF/C, Michigan, Sr.Stats (23 GP): 14.3 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 3.2 APG, 50.5 FG%, 29.9 3P%, 84.5 FT%
Lendeborg stays one of many extra distinctive and versatile senior bigs within the class, providing an unusual mix of measurement, passing, and general really feel. After transferring from UAB to Michigan, his scoring manufacturing has dipped in opposition to stronger competitors, however his all-around influence and connective ability set proceed to face out. Comfy working from the elbows and brief roll, he makes fast reads, facilitates offense, and retains the ball transferring. His means to rebound, deal with in house, and contribute throughout a number of statistical classes provides him worth past conventional frontcourt scoring and displays a contemporary, high-IQ type of play.
The analysis is considerably blended, as his really feel and flexibility are clear strengths, however his consistency, focus, and offensive assertiveness can fluctuate. His perimeter taking pictures stays a piece in progress, and groups will wish to see higher defensive reliability in opposition to NBA-level athletes. His age limits his long-term developmental upside, however it might enchantment to groups in search of a extra NBA-ready contributor who can step right into a rotation sooner. Along with his bodily maturity, expertise, and passing instincts, Lendeborg initiatives as a flexible rotation large able to facilitating offense and impacting the sport in a number of methods if he brings steadier power and improved taking pictures consistency.
NBA Comparability: Boris Diaw
20. Toronto Raptors – Cameron Carr
6’5”, 190, SG/SF, Tennessee, So.Stats (23 GP): 19.6 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 2.8 APG, 52.1 FG%, 41.3 3P%, 76.8 FT%
Carr has put collectively one of many extra spectacular breakout seasons amongst returning wings, rising as a major choice after beforehand being buried in a numbers crunch and restricted by alternative. Now taking part in a significant position, he has responded with sturdy all-around manufacturing and effectivity, making an enormous leap from simply 4.6 factors per sport a yr in the past. An explosive, long-striding athlete, he pressures the rim successfully, finishes above the basket, and has made a big soar as a fringe shooter, changing over 41 p.c from three. The taking pictures enchancment seems pushed extra by rhythm, confidence, and expanded alternative than mechanical modifications, because the contact and type have been at all times evident.
There shall be some concern that his growth took time on the faculty degree, elevating questions on how shortly his sport will translate to the NBA. Whereas he doesn’t constantly take over each sport, the flashes of high-level influence are troublesome to disregard. Defensively, his size, mobility, and timing give him sturdy upside guarding a number of positions, and his general athletic profile matches the mould of a high-upside instruments wing. If the perimeter taking pictures holds and his offensive consistency continues to enhance, Carr has one of many faster-rising trajectories amongst faculty wings, with a mix of athleticism, defensive potential, and scoring progress that factors to respectable two-way starter upside.
NBA Comparability: Kevin Martin / Nique Clifford
21. Minnesota Timberwolves – Bennett Stirtz
6’4”, 180, PG/SG, Iowa, Sr.Stats (23 GP): 19.9 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 4.8 APG, 50.7 FG%, 40.6 3P%, 84.2 FT%
Stirtz has carried his manufacturing seamlessly from Drake to the Huge Ten, posting almost an identical numbers regardless of the numerous soar in competitors. Averaging almost 20 factors per sport whereas taking pictures over 40 p.c from three, he has confirmed that his effectivity, decision-making, and offensive management translate in opposition to high-major defenses. He performs with wonderful tempo and composure, hardly ever forcing the motion whereas constantly making the appropriate learn and holding the offense organized. His compact taking pictures stroke, effectivity from all three ranges, and regular ball safety give him a powerful profile as a refined, complementary guard who can each rating and facilitate.
Defensively, Stirtz competes with toughness and self-discipline, counting on anticipation and positioning to compensate for common lateral quickness and athleticism. His expertise reveals in his display screen navigation and talent to remain inside crew ideas. Whereas his age and lack of elite burst restrict his long-term upside and the adjustment to NBA pace on the guard place might take time, his readiness and confirmed manufacturing in opposition to high-level competitors make him an interesting choice for groups in search of early contribution. Along with his really feel, taking pictures, and regular ground presence, Stirtz initiatives as a reliable rotation guard able to organizing an offense and offering instant worth.
NBA Comparability: Steve Blake
6’5”, 215, SG/SF, Baylor, Fr.Stats (23 GP): 17.7 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 1.7 APG, 47.8 FG%, 30.8 3P%, 76.2 FT%
Yessoufou has produced a powerful freshman marketing campaign constructed on physicality, toughness, and a relentless motor. One of the crucial bodily mature perimeter gamers within the class, he constantly pressures defenses by attacking downhill, ending by contact, and producing paint touches with power and explosiveness. He performs with an aggressive, high-energy type that interprets to transition scoring, rebounding from the wing, and regular two-way influence. Defensively, his power, lateral quickness, and depth enable him to protect a number of positions, disrupt ball handlers, and create turnovers, mirrored in his 2.1 steals per sport.
Whereas the manufacturing has been stable, his long-term offensive ceiling stays tied to perimeter growth. His 30.8 p.c from three reinforces ongoing questions on taking pictures consistency, and enhancing his reliability from deep shall be key to opening driving lanes on the subsequent degree. As a result of he’s already bodily superior, some evaluators query how a lot extra upside stays in comparison with different freshmen. Even so, Yessoufou’s defensive edge, aggressive nature, and talent to influence the sport with out performs referred to as for him give him a transparent path to early contribution. With incremental taking pictures enchancment and continued ability refinement, he initiatives as a rugged, high-energy two-way wing able to serving to groups by protection, physicality, and downhill strain.
NBA Comparability: Luguentz Dort / Avery Bradley
23. Los Angeles Lakers – Karim Lopez
6’8”, 205, SF, Mexico, Intl. (New Zealand Breakers – NBL)Stats (29 GP): 11.8 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 1.9 APG, 1.2 SPG, 1.1 BPG, 50.0 FG%, 31.5 3P%, 73.8 FT%
Lopez has emerged as one of many extra intriguing worldwide wing/ahead prospects, providing a uncommon mixture of measurement, fluid taking pictures mechanics, and two-way statistical manufacturing in Australia’s NBL. Bodily, he resembles an even bigger Klay Thompson-type body with good size and easy perimeter motion. Whereas his three-point share sits at simply over 31 p.c this season, the mechanics, contact, and confidence in his stroke counsel higher long-term taking pictures potential, particularly with NBA spacing. He contributes throughout the field rating with rebounding, defensive exercise, and environment friendly inside scoring, exhibiting a well-rounded basis for a younger perimeter participant competing in opposition to professionals.
The analysis hinges on consistency, defensive edge, and general influence degree. Lopez was considerably underwhelming on the 2025 adidas Eurocamp, the place his efficiency fluctuated, although he flashed the elite taking pictures means that retains scouts intrigued. He at present lacks the defensive toughness and bodily presence related to prime two-way wings, and groups will wish to see him deliver a extra constant motor and aggressive edge. Thought of a possible first-round expertise, his mixture of measurement and taking pictures provides him clear worth, however the important thing shall be proving he can put all of the items collectively and contribute with out requiring a prolonged developmental runway.
6’10”, 250, PF/C Kentucky, So.Stats (4 GP): 5.0 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 0.5 APG, 57.1 FG%, 0.0 3P%, 30.8 FT%
Quaintance is likely one of the extra bodily gifted frontcourt prospects within the class, bringing power, explosiveness, and a excessive motor to the inside. A switch from Arizona State who was not draft-eligible as a freshman, he entered the season with important buzz however has struggled to remain on the ground as a consequence of accidents and restricted availability. When wholesome, his bodily upside is obvious. He performs above the rim, appears to complete all the things with power, and impacts the sport by power, rebounding, and defensive exercise. His instruments, body, and athleticism give him the inspiration of a contemporary role-playing large who can run the ground, shield the paint, and supply bodily presence.
Offensively, Quaintance stays a piece in progress. Whereas he reveals occasional contact across the basket, his scoring ability degree continues to be growing, and his restricted vary and free throw struggles spotlight the necessity for continued refinement. His long-term worth initiatives extra round protection, rebounding, and ending inside an outlined position relatively than offensive creation. Regardless of early hype that positioned him within the top-10 dialog, his present trajectory factors extra towards the late first-round vary. Along with his bodily instruments and defensive potential, he matches the mould of a Kevon Looney-type contributor on the subsequent degree, able to impacting video games by toughness, inside protection, and energy whereas persevering with to develop his offensive really feel.
NBA Comparability: Kevon Looney
6’5”, 190, PG/SG, Australia, Intl.
Stats (2025–26 NBL): 4.4 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 0.8 APG, 0.7 SPG in 14.5 MPG, 40.7 FG%, 36.0 3P%, 50.0 FT%
Daniels is an athletic, fluid two-way guard whose defensive competitiveness, size, and depth give him a powerful basis as a fringe stopper. Incomes rotation minutes as an 18-year-old within the NBL has introduced a steep developmental curve, however he has dealt with the physicality and tempo of the skilled degree nicely whereas exhibiting encouraging flashes. He strikes naturally on the perimeter, slides nicely in house, and makes use of his size and anticipation to strain ball handlers, disrupt passing lanes, and guard a number of positions. His physicality and poise in opposition to high-level competitors have been evident in a 2025 preseason exhibition in opposition to the New Orleans Pelicans, the place he recorded 11 factors and 6 rebounds and drew constructive critiques from scouts.
Offensively, Daniels reveals slashing means and secondary playmaking instincts, attacking closeouts with lengthy strides and working comfortably within the midrange. His 36 p.c three-point taking pictures is a promising signal, although the general effectivity and 50 p.c free throw mark level to the necessity for continued taking pictures growth and mechanical consistency. The restricted statistical manufacturing displays each his age and position relatively than a scarcity of instruments, and the expertise of taking part in in opposition to grown professionals ought to speed up his progress curve. He additionally advantages from the developmental blueprint of older brother Dyson Daniels, whose NBA success has strengthened confidence in his long-term trajectory. Along with his defensive instruments, motor, and positional versatility, Daniels carries a excessive ground as a two-way connector, with upside to turn out to be a worthwhile perimeter defender if his offensive sport continues to progress.
NBA Comparability: Thabo Sefolosha
7’0”, 225, C, North Carolina, Jr.Stats (23 GP): 16.6 PPG, 9.1 RPG, 2.0 APG, 1.3 BPG, 0.6 SPG, 62.6 FG%, 46.0 3P%, 62.1 FT%
Veesaar, a switch from Arizona, has put collectively a extremely environment friendly junior season whereas increasing his offensive versatility and general influence. At 6’11”, he brings good mobility and really feel, ending effectively inside whereas additionally rising as a respectable floor-spacing risk. His 62.6 p.c field-goal mark displays wonderful shot choice and contact across the basket, whereas his 46 p.c from three has added a worthwhile inside-out dimension to his offensive profile. He rebounds constantly, runs the ground nicely, and contributes as a connective passer, permitting him to function comfortably throughout the circulation of the offense.
Not an explosive leaper, Veesaar depends on ability, positioning, and consciousness relatively than vertical pop. Defensively, he offers stable rim safety and competes successfully on the glass, although continued power growth will assist him maintain floor in opposition to extra bodily inside gamers. His free throw share signifies some long-term taking pictures variability, however the mixture of measurement, mobility, effectivity, and perimeter contact makes him an intriguing fashionable large. Along with his team-oriented method and increasing ability set, Veesaar initiatives as a stretch middle who can house the ground, rebound, shield the rim, and facilitate inside a structured system.
NBA Comparability: Kelly Olynyk
27. Denver Nuggets – JT Toppin
6’8”, 225, PF/C, Texas Tech, Jr.Stats (22 GP): 21.8 PPG, 10.5 RPG, 2.0 APG, 1.6 BPG, 1.3 SPG, 55.1 FG%, 27.5 3P%, 54.3 FT%
Toppin has been one of the crucial productive and impactful frontcourt gamers within the nation, averaging almost 22 factors and over 10 rebounds whereas anchoring Texas Tech together with his power, athleticism, and relentless motor. At 6’8”, he constantly performs greater than his measurement, utilizing elite vertical pop, power, and timing to dominate the glass and end above the rim. A lot of his offense comes from high-efficiency alternatives—alley-oops, putbacks, transition finishes, and inside work—however he has additionally proven improved consolation scoring on the block. He fills the stat sheet in a number of methods, including 1.6 blocks and 1.3 steals per sport, reflecting his exercise degree and defensive influence.
Perimeter growth stays the important thing swing issue. His three-point share reveals gradual progress, however his 54 p.c free throw mark raises issues about long-term taking pictures consistency, regardless that he shot considerably higher (67 p.c) final season, suggesting some volatility. Defensively, his motor, rebounding, and talent to generate each blocks and steals give him actual worth, although managing fouls and tightening decision-making shall be necessary. At 22 on draft evening, his age limits his developmental runway, however his athleticism, toughness, and high-level manufacturing give him a transparent path as a high-energy rotation large who impacts video games by effort, physicality, and inside presence.
NBA Comparability: Kenneth Faried
28. San Antonio Spurs – Koa Peat
6’8”, 235, PF, Arizona, Fr.Stats (24 GP): 14.3 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 2.6 APG, 54.2 FG%, 33.3 3P%, 61.0 FT%
Peat has delivered a productive freshman season constructed round power, ability, and bodily maturity, exhibiting the polish and inside really feel that made him one of the crucial completed highschool gamers in latest Arizona historical past. A key contributor to Arizona’s undefeated begin, he has supplied regular scoring, toughness, and reliability on each ends. At 6’8”, 235 kilos, he makes use of his highly effective body, stability, and superior footwork to determine place, end effectively across the basket, and play by contact. His passing out of the publish and luxury working as a scorer or facilitator contained in the arc stay worthwhile strengths, and his high-IQ, team-first method constantly impacts profitable.
The long-term projection turns into extra advanced when evaluating his taking pictures and general offensive ceiling. His three-point share has been respectable however on modest quantity, and a 61 p.c free throw mark factors to ongoing questions on perimeter consistency. With out elite size or explosiveness for an NBA energy ahead, growing extra dependable spacing worth shall be necessary. His sport at present leans closely on physicality, and there are questions on how nicely that type will translate in opposition to greater, longer, and extra athletic frontcourts. These elements mood his upside as a excessive first-round prospect, however within the late first-round vary, his toughness, really feel, and inside-the-arc productiveness venture nicely as a sturdy rotation ahead if his taking pictures and offensive vary proceed to develop.
NBA Comparability: Chuck Hayes / Trevor Booker
29. Detroit Pistons – Allen Graves
6’9”, 225, SF/PF, Santa Clara, Fr.Stats (26 GP): 11.2 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 1.8 APG, 1.0 BPG, 2.1 SPG, 51.4 FG%, 39.3 3P%, 69.6 FT%
Graves has emerged as a respectable first-round darkish horse, producing sturdy two-way numbers regardless of taking part in in a mid-major setting with modest utilization. The analytics stand out, as he averages over a three-pointer, a block, and greater than two steals per sport, reflecting uncommon defensive exercise and flexibility for a 6’9” ahead. A former level guard, he brings superior really feel, ball dealing with, and passing instincts for his measurement, permitting him to perform as a connective piece offensively relatively than a pure finisher. His size, anticipation, and mobility present up on the defensive finish, the place he impacts the sport throughout a number of areas and profiles as a disruptive multi-positional defender.
Bodily, Graves nonetheless has room to refine his physique and enhance his scoring assertiveness, however the basis of measurement, effectivity, defensive manufacturing, and really feel is very intriguing. A transfer to a high-major program subsequent season may push him into lottery consideration for 2027, however his present trajectory already provides him an opportunity to listen to his title referred to as within the mid-to-late first spherical this yr. The choice might in the end come all the way down to timing, as groups worth his versatility, instincts, and talent to influence profitable while not having excessive utilization.
NBA Comparability: Boris Diaw / Kyle Anderson
30. Dallas Mavericks (by way of OKC Thunder) – Miikka Muurinen
6’11”, 210, PF/C, Finland, Intl. (Partizan Belgrade)Stats: 4.1 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 1.0 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Muurinen is a high-upside worldwide ahead whose mixture of measurement, fluid athleticism, and perimeter ability potential continues to intrigue scouts, at the same time as his position with Partizan has been restricted. He has struggled to earn constant minutes on the skilled degree, however previous to turning professional he was a extremely rated American highschool prospect at AZ Compass Prep, the place he flashed excessive athleticism and open-floor means. At 6’11”, he strikes exceptionally nicely, exhibiting grab-and-go potential, the power to assault closeouts, and the athletic instruments to complete above the rim. His taking pictures mechanics are mushy and projectable, and defensively his size and mobility give him the flexibility to modify and canopy floor.
The important thing questions middle on power, maturity, and consistency. Muurinen nonetheless wants so as to add physicality to deal with contact, and his growth will rely upon enhancing focus, day-to-day habits, and general professionalism. At this stage, he should evolve from a spectacular highlight-maker right into a disciplined, dependable crew participant who impacts the sport constantly relatively than in flashes. Given his instruments and athletic profile, he stays an intriguing upside wager, however he initiatives as a longer-term developmental prospect who would require endurance as he continues to mature each on and off the ground.
NBA Comparability: Andris Biedrins / Darko Milicic
