By Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo
With the 2025 class, including notable players like Cooper Flagg, Dylan Harper, and VJ Edgecombe, having moved on to the NBA, attention is now shifting to the 2026 draft pool.
Scouts have been evaluating these prospects for a considerable period, with initial mock drafts published as early as February. The top of the 2026 class is generating significant buzz, with some league executives suggesting that the potential star power among the top five could be historically impressive. Players such as Darryn Peterson, A.J. Dybantsa, Cameron Boozer, and Nate Ament are seen as potential franchise cornerstones.
Based on our experience over the past few years, we`ve seen these top prospects develop, and we typically gain a solid understanding of the class`s upper echelon early on. For instance, our June 2024 projection for the 2025 draft accurately predicted four of the top five picks and six of the first eight, a trend that has generally held true.
The substantial number of college and international prospects from the 2025 pool who chose not to declare or withdrew before the deadline – potentially up to two dozen players from our top 100 board – has created unusual depth in our initial first and second-round projections for the 2026 draft.
NBA teams still have much to learn about players expected to fill out the lottery and the rest of the first round. The incoming high school senior class isn`t widely considered exceptionally deep, nor is the group of 2007-born international players who will become eligible for the draft for the first time particularly electrifying across the board.
However, every year brings surprises, with less-heralded players rising during the college season, similar to Cedric Coward, Nique Clifford, Walter Clayton Jr., or Danny Wolf in the recent draft cycle.
This unpredictability is part of what makes draft projections exciting. The emergence of players from unexpected places keeps NBA scouts constantly engaged.
Who`s No. 1 in 2026 and why?
There are four strong contenders for the No. 1 overall pick – Peterson, Dybantsa, Boozer, and Ament. However, most NBA teams currently view Peterson and Dybantsa as the likely top two prospects, barring significant unforeseen developments.
We had extensive opportunities to observe these four players, among others, at events like the Chipotle Nationals, Nike Hoop Summit, and McDonald’s All American games 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 with an outstanding final high school season at Prolific Prep. He proved exceptionally difficult to defend in transition, displayed the ability to change pace effectively out of the pick-and-roll, confidently hit deep pull-up 3-pointers, and finished explosively around the rim.
Peterson has also demonstrated notable improvements as a passer and defender. Under Kansas coach Bill Self, the 6-foot-6 guard is expected to be the focal point of the offense, providing an ideal platform to secure his status at the top of the draft class within the highly competitive Big 12 conference.
A.J. Dybantsa, who was once considered a sure bet for No. 1 before a somewhat less impressive high school senior year, delivered a stunning performance at the USA Basketball U19 training camp recently. Showing a strong inclination to create opportunities for teammates, Dybantsa was a devastating force in transition and effectively guarded positions from point guards to power forwards, utilizing a rare combination of physicality and intensity for an 18-year-old.
He scored effortlessly and made numerous high-level reads in the pick-and-roll, including precise pocket passes and lobs, showcasing significant growth in his decision-making and unselfishness.
If Dybantsa maintains this level of play, he is almost certain to emerge as the No. 1 pick. His performance at the upcoming FIBA U19 World Cup and as a freshman at BYU will prompt us to reassess our projected order, considering also how Peterson performs.
Cameron Boozer remains a strong candidate for the top spot following his exceptional showing at the Nike Hoop Summit in April. He was instrumental in leading USA Basketball to a hard-fought overtime victory against the World Team, tallying 22 points, 16 rebounds, and 6 assists. He anchored his team`s defense and displayed remarkable basketball IQ. Despite this, some NBA executives have expressed concerns, viewing Boozer as someone who peaked physically early and perhaps relies too much on physical dominance inside the paint.
To silence these critics, Boozer will need to demonstrate consistent shooting, passing ability, and defensive versatility. We anticipate a season similar to Cooper Flagg`s at Duke, which could surprise those who doubt him.
Nate Ament is a recent addition to the No. 1 pick discussion and is arguably the furthest from realizing his full potential, partly due to his current weight of 186 pounds. However, ultra-talented 6-foot-11 wing players possessing his fluidity, shot-making prowess, defensive versatility, and scoring touch are frequently regarded as potential franchise players.
Following the McDonald`s All American Game in April, several NBA executives remarked on Ament`s All-Star potential. Having joined practice at Tennessee on June 17, Ament appears to be gaining weight and is slated for a prominent role in the SEC. This provides him with every opportunity to make a strong case as a surprise No. 1 candidate.
Who are the top returning prospects to watch?
While most of our early projected first-rounders are incoming freshmen or international players, 11 players in our top 30 are returning to NCAA basketball. Many of these players went through the pre-draft evaluation process this spring before deciding to stay in college. Here are some of the top returning players NBA teams will be closely monitoring:
Jayden Quaintance, C, Kentucky
Quaintance was only 17 years old throughout his freshman season at Arizona State, making him ineligible for this year`s draft. NBA teams paid close attention nonetheless, attracted by his excellent physical attributes and flashes of talent as an interior scorer and dunker. Given his age, his significant shot-blocking numbers (2.6 per game) were particularly impressive.
Although Quaintance is still raw in terms of skill, particularly his jump shot, and has considerable development needed in overall technique and court awareness, his extreme youth for college level earns him the benefit of the doubt. NBA scouts will be keen to see if he makes further strides after transferring to Kentucky. He will have a major platform there to solidify his position as a lottery talent, but he requires substantial refinement before he`s ready for the NBA. His recovery speed following ACL surgery in March will be a factor to watch.
Yaxel Lendeborg, PF/C, Michigan
Lendeborg had a breakout season at UAB and has transferred to Michigan, where he is expected to have a significant role and received a lucrative NIL deal after contemplating the 2025 draft. He showed positive moments at the combine but it wasn`t enough to guarantee a first-round selection. With key frontcourt players like Danny Wolf and Vladislav Goldin departing for the pros, Lendeborg has an opportunity to significantly boost his draft stock at Michigan.
A late bloomer, Lendeborg offers a mix of offensive skill, defensive playmaking, and excellent length. Expect him to be a central figure for Michigan next season.
Bennett Stirtz, PG, Iowa
Stirtz was gaining considerable traction with NBA scouts in March, performing well in the NCAA tournament and generating first-round buzz. Given his momentum, it was unexpected when he decided to bypass the entire pre-draft process this spring.
Instead, Stirtz will follow his coach, Ben McCollum, from Drake to Iowa. At Iowa, he will take on the primary ball-handling duties, providing a platform to further establish himself as one of the country`s top guards in the Big Ten conference. He is an excellent playmaker.
Isaiah Evans, SG, Duke
Evans, a former five-star recruit, didn`t fully break through at Duke last season, playing a limited role on a very strong team before opting to return. A perimeter shooting specialist with a slender build, Evans is likely to have more scoring opportunities on a revamped Blue Devils squad, giving NBA teams a better look at his capabilities.
His struggles with decision-making and defense limited his consistent playing time last season. Evans must improve in these areas to solidify his potential as a first-round pick next year. His shot-making is a legitimate NBA skill, but he has work to do to win over scouts regarding the rest of his game.
Tahaad Pettiford, PG, Auburn
Pettiford stood out on the initial day of the NBA combine, but his performance wasn`t sufficient to guarantee the first-round status he sought. However, he reminded scouts of his talent before returning to Auburn. He is expected to have more freedom to operate next season, as the Tigers have significant backcourt minutes available.
Pettiford`s scoring ability and explosiveness offer him potential success as an undersized guard. Nevertheless, NBA teams want to see him improve his playmaking and defense. At 6-1 and 175 pounds, his projected role might be as an offensive spark off the bench. Still, if Pettiford can reframe the conversation about his potential upside, he could land in the first round.
2026 NBA mock draft: Top 10 picks
The projected 2026 top-10 draft order is based on various factors including betting odds and existing team analysis.
1. Washington Wizards
Darryn Peterson, PG/SG, 6-6, Age: 18.4
Freshman, Kansas
Peterson was arguably the best high school player last season, possessing a sought-after combination of size, length, athleticism, and shot creation ability. He is also a capable passer and exhibits strong defensive instincts.
Heading to Kansas under coach Bill Self, Peterson will be the primary offensive engine, providing him with an excellent opportunity to solidify his standing as the top prospect in the 2026 draft class within the competitive Big 12.
2. Utah Jazz
A.J. Dybantsa, SG/SF, 6-9, Age: 18.4
Freshman, BYU
Dybantsa has consistently put up impressive statistics throughout his young career, although he had a somewhat inconsistent season last year at Utah Prep.
He looked significantly better at the USA Basketball U19 World Cup camp in June, playing more efficiently and dominating on both ends of the court. NBA teams highly value 6-foot-9 wings like Dybantsa who can score from anywhere, pass effectively while on the move, and defend multiple positions with physical intensity.
Now enrolled at BYU, he is expected to be a primary offensive option and has the chance to prove he is worthy of the No. 1 pick. This process may begin at the upcoming FIBA U19 World Cup.
3. Brooklyn Nets
Cameron Boozer, PF, 6-9, Age: 17.9
Freshman, Duke
Boozer is recognized as one of the most productive high school players in recent memory, with an unmatched winning pedigree. He possesses an elite basketball IQ, capable of handling the ball, passing, shooting, and defending multiple positions.
He plays with relentless physicality, rebounds aggressively, and takes pride in dominating his matchups inside. His outside shooting has also seen significant improvement over the past year. Boozer`s freshman year production at Duke could potentially rival that of Cooper Flagg, positioning him as a legitimate candidate for national Player of the Year, even amidst questions from some NBA executives regarding his ultimate long-term upside.
4. Charlotte Hornets
Nate Ament, SF, 6-11, Age: 18.5
Freshman, Tennessee
Ament, a late bloomer, has grown significantly in height and has started filling out his frame at 6-foot-11.
He is an exceptional shot-maker, has improved his passing and defensive versatility, and his ability to create his own shot almost at will gives him perhaps the highest upside in this draft class. He is expected to be a key player at Tennessee, providing NBA teams with a clear look at whether he can consistently perform as an efficient, impactful player in the challenging SEC.
5. Sacramento Kings
Mikel Brown Jr., PG, 6-4, Age: 18.8
Committed to Louisville
Having grown from 5-foot-10 to 6-foot-4 during his high school career, Brown has demonstrated dynamic scoring instincts and talent as a ball handler, passer, and outside shooter.
Currently listed at 176 pounds, Brown can be inconsistent as a finisher, defender, and decision-maker. His ability to handle the physicality of college basketball on both ends of the court will significantly influence his productivity during his freshman season at Louisville.
6. Memphis Grizzlies (via Phoenix)
Jayden Quaintance, PF/C, 6-10, Age: 17.9
Sophomore, Kentucky
Younger than several highly-rated incoming high school seniors, Quaintance had a very productive freshman season at Arizona State, standing out as one of the top shot blockers in college basketball.
He possesses a strong physique, large hands, a 7-foot-5 wingspan, and is exceptionally mobile. NBA teams will be closely watching his recovery and performance after ACL surgery in March, which may lead to a cautious start at Kentucky.
7. Chicago Bulls
Karim Lopez, SF/PF, 6-9, Age: 18.2
New Zealand Breakers (NBL)
Lopez had a strong season with the New Zealand Breakers in the NBL Next Star program, showing significant improvement in his outside shooting. At 6-foot-9, he combines guard skills with the physicality and motor required to defend larger players.
Scouts are eager to observe his continued development in his second season in the Australian league, where he is 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
At 6-foot-9, Wilson has the physical tools, featuring an impressive frame, length, and developing two-way versatility that could evolve into a very promising profile long-term. He is capable of grabbing defensive rebounds and initiating the offense with passes on the move.
Wilson`s intensity and outside shooting require improvement, but he possesses inherent attributes that are difficult to teach and significant long-term upside.
9. Memphis Grizzlies
Dame Sarr, SG/SF, 19.0
Freshman, Duke
Sarr is following the path of previous highly-rated international prospects, leaving the Spanish development system for college basketball at Duke. He joins a significantly altered roster there.
The 6-foot-8 wing is a versatile defender who has shown promising flashes as a perimeter shooter, passer, and shot creator while playing in the EuroLeague and ACB last year. However, he is still unpolished in several aspects of his game, including 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. This makes it challenging to predict how he will handle the demands of the Australian NBL next season. He shares many strengths and weaknesses with his brother Dyson (a guard for the Hawks) but is bigger, stronger, and longer at the same age, which enhances his NBA projection.
Similar to his brother, he is an excellent defender but is still developing as a ball handler, shooter, and scorer. However, he has a strong feel for the game and plays with pace and unselfishness. Based on his performance in the NBL1 league this summer, he appears to be making progress with his shooting.
Remaining big board for the class of 2026
- 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
