2026 NBA mock draft: Who’s rising and falling ahead of March Madness?

Regardless of whether you’ve tracked the 2026 NBA draft class throughout the season or are only now engaging due to March Madness, it’s worth reiterating: this draft pool promises outstanding talent.

Darryn Peterson, AJ Dybantsa, Cameron Boozer, and Caleb Wilson stand out as the top prospects. However, a strong contingent of guard talents—including Kingston Flemings, Keaton Wagler, Darius Acuff Jr., and Mikel Brown Jr.—bolsters the mid-lottery’s potential.

Inside NBA circles, discussions persist regarding tanking and the league’s counter-measures; the perceived strength of this draft has undoubtedly contributed to the unusually high number of teams currently dropping in the standings. Many expect numerous promising players, especially those not firmly projected as first-rounders, to opt for another year in college, influenced by evolving NIL compensation. This mock draft aims to illustrate selections if NBA teams were drafting right now. It is not a comprehensive prospect ranking; for that, refer to ESPN’s Top 100.

These insights are drawn from continuous discussions with NBA executives and scouts, complemented by my personal evaluation through extensive game attendance and film analysis.

As conference tournaments commence and a talent-rich NCAA tournament approaches in a week, here are our updated projections for the 2026 draft.

The draft sequence was determined based on ESPN’s BPI projections updated on March 8.

Additional NBA Draft Resources:
2026 Prospect Top 100 Rankings | Further Content

First Round Selections

Darryn Peterson, Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Kansas
Freshman
2025-26 Season Statistics: 19.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.8 assists across 20 appearances

Peterson’s potential as the top pick has been a frequent topic throughout a challenging season. Concerns about his cramping and erratic performance have amplified the perceived risk of selecting him first, yet he continues to be recognized as the draft’s most naturally talented offensive player. NBA organizations hold diverse levels of apprehension, but comprehensive details regarding his long-term well-being and other intangible qualities will only become available further into the evaluation process.

The competition for the No. 1 spot between Peterson and AJ Dybantsa is so tight that many league insiders consider it dependent on the team making the final decision. Cameron Boozer’s impressive season has similarly maintained his position within this top-pick discussion.

It’s crucial to recall the high regard many evaluators, especially scouts who observed him in high school, held for Peterson prior to the season. While his responsibilities at Kansas have primarily shifted him away from lead ball-handling, confidence persists in his playmaking skills and capacity to function as a primary handler. Peterson is unlikely to drop outside the top three, and he demonstrated significantly improved health during last weekend’s game against Kansas State. A strong performance in the postseason could reshape the perception of his overall season.

Sacramento, seeking a foundational player for their franchise, has substantial stakes in this lottery outcome. Given five key rotation players are currently sidelined with injuries, they appear to be a strong contender for a top-three pick.

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AJ Dybantsa, Small Forward, BYU
Freshman
2025-26 Season Statistics: 24.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, 3.8 assists across 31 games

A significant NBA presence attended the Big 12 tournament in Kansas City on Tuesday to watch Dybantsa and BYU compete against Kansas State, with decision-makers from most lottery-bound teams present. Dybantsa delivered a stellar performance, scoring 40 points in a variety of ways on 15-of-21 shooting, leading the Cougars to a 105-91 victory. He is set for another prominent showing Wednesday night against West Virginia, with Houston awaiting if he can orchestrate another win.

The Big 12’s Freshman of the Year has certainly made the No. 1 pick race compelling, currently leading the NCAA in scoring while also demonstrating growth as a playmaker. He was playing his finest basketball of the season before teammate Richie Saunders suffered an ACL tear on February 14th, an injury that contributed to BYU’s late-season decline. In what has become a genuine debate for the top pick, some within the NBA now view Dybantsa as a more secure choice than Peterson. He may not possess the same ball-handling or shooting prowess, but he could offer greater untapped potential in terms of physicality, skill development, and defensive impact.

The Wizards retain this pick (otherwise destined for the New York Knicks) if it lands within the top eight. Trae Young returned to play last week, and Anthony Davis’s comeback timeline remains uncertain, but this could represent Washington’s final high-lottery opportunity for some time.

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Cameron Boozer, Power Forward/Center, Duke
Freshman
2025-26 Season Statistics: 22.7 points, 10.2 rebounds, 4.1 assists across 31 games

Boozer, named both ACC Player and Rookie of the Year, has built a compelling argument for being the premier player in college basketball and would represent excellent value if he were to fall to No. 3.

He is currently enjoying a historically productive season, serving as the linchpin for a Duke team harboring championship ambitions. His excellence extends across nearly all offensive facets. However, his average explosiveness, coupled with slower defensive lateral movement, has prompted questions regarding his ultimate ceiling.

Some scouts ponder whether he can be the leading player on an NBA championship-caliber team, or if his optimal role is as a secondary star.

Indiana’s trade deadline acquisition of Ivica Zubac heightens the stakes for next season and this draft choice, as they will convey it to the LA Clippers if it lands between picks 5-9. Integrating Boozer with a healthy Tyrese Haliburton could propel the Pacers into another playoff push.

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Caleb Wilson, Power Forward/Center, North Carolina
Freshman
2025-26 Season Statistics: 19.8 points, 9.4 rebounds, 2.7 assists across 24 games

Wilson made the decision to undergo surgery last week after sustaining a broken thumb in practice, effectively ending his season and preventing him from participating in the NCAA tournament.

A first-team All-ACC honoree, he has showcased enough skill to remain a secure top-pick candidate, even without further court action. His performance highlighted his capacity for above-the-rim play and two-way potential as a power forward. While evaluators are keen to see further development in his 3-point shooting (25.9%) and ball skills, Wilson consistently demonstrates exceptional effort, having recorded 11 double-doubles and distinguished himself as an elite prospect. NBA teams have consistently placed him within their top-four selections.

Brooklyn has patiently built its roster, retaining Michael Porter Jr. and Nic Claxton at the trade deadline, and will be looking to add star power to the NBA’s youngest roster, regardless of where this pick lands.

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Kingston Flemings, Point Guard, Houston
Freshman
2025-26 Season Statistics: 16.5 points, 3.9 rebounds, 5.4 assists across 31 games

With a robust collection of backcourt players projected across the middle of the lottery, and front offices holding diverse valuations for each, these athletes have a genuine opportunity to significantly enhance their stock over the coming weeks.

Flemings stands out as the draft’s most explosive guard, with his aggressive downhill style and developing playmaking skills keeping him high on team wish lists. Evaluators share some reservations about his shooting mechanics, but he has delivered results (84% from the line, 37.6% from 3-point range) and his jumper has shown an upward trend over the past year.

Ultimately, Houston’s March success will depend on how far the first-team All-Big 12 selection can lead them, starting Thursday in the conference tournament.

The Jazz need this pick to fall within the top eight; otherwise, it will be conveyed to Oklahoma City. Utah strengthened its frontcourt with Jaren Jackson Jr. at the trade deadline and should be closely examining guard options as they prepare to pivot toward playoff contention next season.

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Keaton Wagler, Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Illinois
Freshman
2025-26 Season Statistics: 17.9 points, 4.9 rebounds, 4.3 assists across 31 games

Wagler’s unexpected ascent from an unheralded recruit to Big Ten Freshman of the Year has positioned him as a contender to be the second guard selected. His size for his position (6-foot-6), 3-point shooting prowess (41%), and flawless playmaking provide him with strong developmental potential.

Continuing to build strength for improved navigation in the paint and becoming a more effective defender are also crucial long-term objectives. He is the least dynamic athlete among the guards in this cohort, but the framework exists for him to become a consistent NBA backcourt contributor.

Atlanta will be seeking a long-term point guard after parting ways with Trae Young, and can address this need in the upcoming draft, even if their pick does not land in the top four.

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Darius Acuff Jr., Point Guard, Arkansas
Freshman
2025-26 Season Statistics: 22.2 points, 3.0 rebounds, 6.4 assists across 30 games

Acuff earned the title of SEC Player of the Year following an exceptional season that firmly established him as a lottery pick. His knack for navigating congested areas on the court, creating his own scoring opportunities, and finding open teammates has been a significant distinguishing factor.

NBA teams have reservations about his defense, but Acuff’s ability to generate points is undeniable. While opinions vary on how he compares long-term against his peers, Acuff is considered the most NBA-ready among the four guards.

Dallas represents another potential landing spot for a point guard, with Kyrie Irving now 33 and the Mavericks building around the rising Cooper Flagg. Securing a long-term starter at the position would be a major asset for their future.

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Mikel Brown Jr., Point Guard, Louisville
Freshman
2025-26 Season Statistics: 18.2 points, 3.3 rebounds, 4.7 assists across 21 games

Brown was officially sidelined for the ACC tournament on Tuesday as he continues to contend with back issues that have bothered him for much of the season. A return for the NCAA tournament has not been ruled out, but this has become a situation NBA teams are eager to learn more about once he completes his medical evaluation at the combine in May.

Despite shooting just 41% from the field this season, scouts are confident in his past performance and view his dynamic perimeter shot-creation (34% from 3-point range) as a significant asset. While the fluctuations in his season haven’t boosted his draft profile, he performed better after his injury return in February. Brown is still projected to be a top-10 pick, with evaluators remaining optimistic about his potential as a tall (6-5) backcourt playmaker.

Memphis traded Jaren Jackson Jr. at the deadline as they continue to rebuild primarily through the draft. The Grizzlies should adopt a “best-available” approach, especially with Ja Morant’s long-term future uncertain.

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Nate Ament, Small Forward/Power Forward, Tennessee
Freshman
2025-26 Season Statistics: 17.4 points, 6.4 rebounds, 2.4 assists across 29 games

Ament sustained a right leg injury against Alabama on February 28th and has not played since, though he resumed basketball activities this week. His availability for Tennessee’s SEC tournament game on Thursday remains uncertain.

He turned his season around during conference play after a slow start, averaging 19 points in 16 league games and reminding teams of his high pre-season rating. While he has occasionally left evaluators wanting more, he possesses valuable size and skill attributes that should ensure his long-term presence in the NBA. Ament’s potential to become a star hinges on the evolution of his shot-creation abilities.

The Bulls cleared out their roster at the trade deadline and should prioritize the best available talent going forward, with a clear need for improved perimeter shooting.

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Brayden Burries, Shooting Guard, Arizona
Freshman
2025-26 Season Statistics: 16.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, 2.6 assists across 31 games

Burries has been a significant climber since the start of the calendar year, overcoming a poor start to the season and earning first-team All-Big 12 honors on an Arizona team that dominated its conference schedule. He has proven effective both on and off the ball, a capable screen-runner who can also catch and shoot (37% from 3-point range), providing a solid foundation as a long-term backcourt contributor. Although a year older than many of his freshman classmates and slightly undersized for a two-guard at 6-4, he is gaining momentum as a late-lottery prospect, adding another freshman to this competitive mix.

Rival teams have been unclear about the Bucks’ strategic direction, with Giannis Antetokounmpo returning to the court this month and a potential offseason trade still a possibility. If Milwaukee intends to keep him, it might make sense to target a more NBA-ready player with this pick (the lesser of its own and Atlanta’s). However, Giannis’s mid-season comeback could ultimately diminish the Bucks’ chances for better draft odds.

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Karim Lopez, Small Forward/Power Forward, New Zealand Breakers
2025-26 Season Statistics: 11.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, 2.0 assists across 31 games

Lopez concluded a strong individual season in the NBL, amassing the most points, steals, and blocks ever by a draft-eligible Next Stars participant.

While this occurred within a losing team context, NBA organizations are optimistic about his combination of size, skill, and toughness, keeping him in contention for a late-lottery selection as the pre-draft process begins. Scouts believe he needs to improve his shooting, enhance his defensive capabilities, and maximize his physique to ultimately succeed as a stretch-four, which is his most natural long-term position.

Portland seems entrenched in a play-in tournament spot and will transfer this pick to Chicago if they manage to reach the playoffs.

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Thomas Haugh, Small Forward/Power Forward, Florida
Junior
2025-26 Season Statistics: 17.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, 2.0 assists across 30 games

A first-team All-SEC selection, Haugh continues to project as one of the more dependable players in this draft class.

As a big, tough frontcourt player with a history of winning, he consistently earns extra possessions and plays with tremendous effort. While his perimeter confidence has noticeably improved, his 3-point shooting has remained around average for the past two seasons (34%), an area he will need to refine.

He doesn’t generate much offense independently, but his versatile role at Florida should translate well, provided his shot continues to develop. At 22, Haugh is on the older side for a prospect, but he offers a plug-and-play option for playoff-contending teams starting in this portion of the draft.

The Spurs are slated to receive this pick via a swap from the Hawks, potentially granting them another lottery selection to augment their young and increasingly deep roster.

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Braylon Mullins, Shooting Guard, UConn
Freshman
2025-26 Season Statistics: 12.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, 1.3 assists across 24 games

Mullins presents an intriguing stay-or-go scenario this spring, being a freshman with many admirers in NBA front offices, yet potentially able to improve his draft stock next year. As a high-caliber perimeter shooter with positional size (6-6) and natural scoring instincts, some believe he is capable of much more than he has demonstrated this season in a supporting role on an experienced UConn squad.

He possesses good upside regardless and is positioned to benefit from the March Madness spotlight if the Huskies make a deep run.

The Warriors held onto this pick at the trade deadline, giving them an outside chance at a lottery selection if they fail to make the playoffs.

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Jayden Quaintance, Center, Kentucky
Sophomore
2025-26 Season Statistics: 5.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, 0.5 assists across four games

Quaintance has emerged as one of the more enigmatic prospects in this class, with his chances of returning this month from knee swelling unclear, alongside a limited sample size of play since tearing his ACL a year ago.

Regardless of his return, the success of his pre-draft process will depend heavily on medical evaluations and team workouts. His long-term upside in a draft lacking top-tier center talent should keep him in lottery discussions, with a viable future as a rim-running, shot-blocking five. However, his current draft range is quite broad.

Charlotte has shown progress this season after successfully drafting Kon Knueppel last year and could benefit from additional frontcourt help, a need the team could address with its two first-round picks.

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Hannes Steinbach, Power Forward/Center, Washington
Freshman
2025-26 Season Statistics: 18.6 points, 11.6 rebounds, 1.5 assists across 28 games

Steinbach has been consistently reliable, albeit for a middle-of-the-road Washington team, and appears to be a future NBA rotation player. He is a competent offensive player with good hands and potential for floor-spacing, but he occasionally struggles defensively, where his ability to defend in space is limited, and he is undersized for a center. Washington will attempt to extend its season against USC on Tuesday at the Big Ten tournament.

The Clippers improved their season sufficiently to solidify a play-in tournament position, reducing the likelihood of the Thunder acquiring another lottery selection. With the Thunder already having considerable quality depth and limited roster spots, there is an incentive for Oklahoma City to consolidate some of these picks leading up to draft night.

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Christian Anderson, Point Guard, Texas Tech
Sophomore
2025-26 Season Statistics: 19.2 points, 3.7 rebounds, 7.8 assists across 30 games

Anderson has been instrumental in keeping Texas Tech competitive after the injury of star teammate JT Toppin on February 17th, and he continues to exhibit exceptional shooting (42.7% from 3-point range).

The First-Team All-Big 12 selection has positioned himself favorably in a very deep point guard class, establishing a strong secondary tier alongside Bennett Stirtz and Labaron Philon. NBA teams admire Anderson’s well-rounded game and his capacity to play both on and off the ball, with his average physical profile and lack of strength being the primary factors limiting his stock. Texas Tech secured a double-bye and will commence Big 12 tournament play on Thursday.

Oklahoma City holds this pick from Philadelphia with top-four protections, giving them a second asset to utilize in the middle of the first round.

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Yaxel Lendeborg, Power Forward/Center, Michigan
Senior
2025-26 Season Statistics: 14.7 points, 7.2 rebounds, 3.2 assists across 31 games

Amidst an outstanding year at Michigan, culminating in him winning Big Ten Player of the Year, Lendeborg has appeared to be a ready-made rotation player; his age (23) is the primary drawback.

He has successfully defended both opposing guards and bigs, while also contributing to offensive facilitation on the perimeter, showcasing a level of versatility that NBA teams value. A capable, though not outstanding, shooter (34.3% from 3-point range), Lendeborg’s switchability and skill level should allow him to contribute across multiple positions on the court. He will have a significant platform in March to challenge the age narrative and potentially elevate himself into the lottery.

The Grizzlies own the more favorable of Phoenix’s and Orlando’s picks, likely securing them a second selection within the top 20.

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Labaron Philon Jr., Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Alabama
Sophomore
2025-26 Season Statistics: 21.5 points, 3.2 rebounds, 4.8 assists across 29 games

Philon earned first-team All-SEC honors and continues to demonstrate impressive shot creation abilities, proving he can drive to spots off the dribble and score from anywhere on the floor.

While NBA teams acknowledge his scoring prowess, some evaluators question his organizational skills and whether his ultimate fit is best as a bench spark plug—a role often considered replaceable.

Returning to school significantly benefited him, but the deep point guard talent in this draft class might hinder his prospects of sneaking into the lottery.

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Koa Peat, Power Forward/Center, Arizona
Freshman
2025-26 Season Statistics: 13.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.7 assists across 28 games

Peat was sidelined for a few games in February due to a leg injury and hasn’t quite returned to his previous form since.

When healthy, he is a robust, physically imposing forward with good court awareness and versatility, but his inconsistent jump shooting and less-than-ideal height (6-8) for a power forward continue to raise questions about how his role will translate.

He is another freshman who could ultimately improve his standing by returning to college and entering the 2027 draft, which appears to offer more opportunities for players to rise.

Charlotte holds the least favorable pick among Washington’s (if 1-8), Phoenix’s, Orlando’s, and Memphis’ selections.

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Bennett Stirtz, Point Guard, Iowa
Senior
2025-26 Season Statistics: 20.2 points, 2.5 rebounds, 4.4 assists across 31 games

An exceptional college player who has done everything possible to keep Iowa competitive, Stirtz adjusted well to the Big Ten after transferring from Drake.

He has put together another strong statistical season on an extremely slow-paced Iowa team built around his skill set. His impressive decision-making, court awareness, and perimeter shooting will need to compensate for his limited foot speed in the NBA, and defense will not be his primary calling card.

Given his numerous strengths, Stirtz should still be able to immediately contribute as a depth option.

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Motiejus Krivas, Center, Arizona
Junior
2025-26 Season Statistics: 10.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, 1.0 assists across 31 games

Krivas made significant progress this season and has progressively distinguished himself within a large pool of big men projected in the 20-40 range.

He is among the most impactful defenders in college basketball, utilizing his sheer size (7-2) to deter opponents near the rim, secure rebounds (8.2 RPG), and control interior play. He possesses good footwork and hands, finishes effectively around the basket, has converted 79.7% of his free throws, and appears to be a future NBA rotation player. Krivas may not have flashy upside, but he is a strong bet to provide value later in the draft.

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Chris Cenac Jr., Power Forward/Center, Houston
Freshman
2025-26 Season Statistics: 9.4 points, 7.4 rebounds, 0.8 assists across 31 games

Cenac’s freshman year has been a mixed bag as he adapted to a significant role at Houston.

His mobility, length, and glimpses of shooting touch (36.5% on all jump shots, per Synergy) provide an appealing developmental foundation, and he has shown overall improvement this season primarily playing at the 4 spot.

However, there are also some clear deficiencies in his profile: he has averaged less than a block per game and rarely gets to the foul line (59% on only 39 attempts). Some scouts still believe in Cenac’s long-term upside, but there’s also a sentiment that he could benefit from more time in college.

The Pistons acquired swap rights for this pick with the Timberwolves in a three-team deal at the trade deadline, potentially allowing them to move up several spots in the 20s.

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Cameron Carr, Shooting Guard, Baylor
Sophomore
2025-26 Season Statistics: 19.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, 2.7 assists across 31 games

Carr has been the standout performer in an otherwise disappointing year for Baylor, with his season likely concluding Tuesday after his 25-point effort in a loss to Arizona State. He finished the season shooting nearly 40% from 3-point range, demonstrating genuine shot-making ability and still having ample room for improvement across all facets of his game.

While he remains an inconsistent offensive creator, he is an explosive leaper with deep 3-point range and plus length (7-foot-1 wingspan) who could thrive in a more focused NBA role.

He needs to become a better defender to broaden his impact beyond scoring, but he is precisely the type of athletic wing shooter NBA teams are willing to take a chance on and develop.

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Aday Mara, Center, Michigan
Sophomore
2025-26 Season Statistics: 11.3 points, 6.9 rebounds, 2.4 assists across 31 games

Mara’s game is an acquired taste for some scouts, but it’s hard to overlook his contribution to Michigan’s success.

His enormous frame—7-foot-3—allows him to effectively deter opponents in the paint, and he possesses genuine skill and playmaking instincts on offense to leverage.

Mara struggles to cover ground given his size and will likely be confined to drop coverage defensively. He also lacks upper-body strength and occasionally struggles with ball security, but he is a unique player some teams will be eager to invest in, especially if he can develop a consistent 3-point shot. His shooting stroke appears decent in warmups, but it hasn’t translated to game action or the free-throw line (52.9%).

Philadelphia acquired this pick at the deadline from Oklahoma City in the Jared McCain trade.

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Isaiah Evans, Shooting Guard, Duke
Sophomore
2025-26 Season Statistics: 14.5 points, 2.8 rebounds, 1.3 assists across 31 games

Evans continues to exhibit an NBA-friendly skill set as a talented movement shooter with good positional size (6-6) on the wing.

He has been an important secondary scorer, providing spacing alongside Cameron Boozer, and will have more opportunities to showcase his shot-making abilities on a major stage in March. There is room for him to ascend in a first round that is shaping up to be somewhat thin on wing talent.

Through swaps, the Hawks owe their own first-round pick to the Spurs but will end up with the more favorable of Cleveland’s and San Antonio’s selections.

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Patrick Ngongba II, Center, Duke
Sophomore
2025-26 Season Statistics: 10.7 points, 6.0 rebounds, 1.9 assists across 29 games

Ngongba is slated to miss the ACC tournament due to right foot soreness, with his status for the NCAA tournament currently uncertain.

Scouts are divided on Ngongba: he possesses inherent strengths that make him well-suited as a modern center, excelling as a passer and interior defender. However, he is also a below-average run-jump athlete who needs to maximize his frame (6-11).

His defensive instincts and feel for the game could prove useful, but some scouts believe he is not yet prepared for NBA physicality and would benefit from additional time in college.

How he performs in March could influence his eventual decision, with all eyes on Duke over the coming weeks and a number of more NBA-ready centers potentially available in the 20-40 range.

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Morez Johnson Jr., Power Forward/Center, Michigan
Sophomore
2025-26 Season Statistics: 13.7 points, 7.4 rebounds, 1.1 assists across 31 games

It has been a productive season for Johnson, who has climbed draft boards through consistent play and a willingness to perform the unglamorous tasks.

His strong build and 7-foot-2 wingspan enable him to play larger than his actual height (6-9), and he has demonstrated the ability to guard both power forwards and centers.

While his offensive role will be confined, he has successfully converted spot-up 3-pointers (10 of 24 on the season) and finishes straightforward plays around the basket. With NBA teams increasingly reverting to double-big lineups, Johnson should have long-term utility and provide immediate depth.

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Amari Allen, Small Forward/Power Forward, Alabama
Freshman
2025-26 Season Statistics: 11.9 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.1 assists across 28 games

After starting the year as an under-the-radar prospect, Allen has proven to be an intelligent, versatile perimeter player with good positional size (6-8). His passing instincts and developing shot (37% from 3-point range) have captured the attention of scouts who foresee long-term upside, especially if he progresses as a ball-handler.

The question is whether he can climb high enough on draft boards to make returning to school an unappealing option. The latter scenario seems more probable at this juncture, but he also has an opportunity to rise as teams gather more information on him in the coming months.

Cleveland owns the lesser of San Antonio’s pick and its own, via a swap with Atlanta.

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Dailyn Swain, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Texas
Junior
2025-26 Season Statistics: 17.7 points, 7.5 rebounds, 3.4 assists across 31 games

Swain has been a gradual riser as a skilled wing amidst a strong individual season.

His shooting has long been a concern for scouts, but he has shown some improvement this season (35% on 80 3-pointers) and is now an 81% career free-throw shooter. He also projects as a plus positional defender due to his frame and agility.

Swain must develop as a shooter to play effectively without the ball, as his current high-usage role at Texas is expected to diminish in the NBA. Evaluators have mixed opinions on his upside, but he represents the type of gamble a team might take in this range.

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30. Dallas Mavericks (via Oklahoma City)

Tounde Yessoufou, Small Forward, Baylor
Freshman
2025-26 Season Statistics: 18.0 points, 5.8 rebounds, 1.6 assists across 31 games

Yessoufou contributed 14 points in a loss to Arizona State as Baylor’s season likely concluded on Tuesday.

Scouts have been intrigued by his physical strength and long-term potential, but have largely desired more from him, expressing concerns about his shot selection and inconsistent defensive effort.

He tends to seek out his own shot and relies more on brute force than refined skill, and it is challenging to succeed in the league as a 6-foot-5 scoring forward who is only an average shooter (30% from 3-point range).

Yessoufou also possesses the tools and motor to eventually become a plus defender, but he hasn’t fully integrated all aspects of his game yet. This places him in an interesting position heading into the pre-draft process, with a strong argument for a second year of college based on this season’s body of work.

Dallas acquired OKC’s pick from Washington in the Anthony Davis trade.

Second Round Selections

31. Sacramento Kings: Dame Sarr, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Duke, Freshman
32. New York Knicks (via Washington): Tyler Tanner, Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Vanderbilt, Sophomore
33. Memphis Grizzlies (via Indiana): Alex Condon, Center, Florida, Junior
34. Brooklyn Nets: Juke Harris, Shooting Guard, Wake Forest, Sophomore
35. San Antonio Spurs (via Utah): Alex Karaban, Small Forward/Power Forward, UConn, Senior
36. Chicago Bulls (via New Orleans): Henri Veesaar, Center, North Carolina, Junior
37. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Dallas): Joshua Jefferson, Small Forward/Power Forward, Iowa State, Senior
38. LA Clippers (via Memphis): Meleek Thomas, Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Arkansas, Freshman
39. Houston Rockets (via Chicago): Zuby Ejiofor, Power Forward/Center, St. John’s, Senior
40. Boston Celtics (via Milwaukee): Braden Smith, Point Guard, Purdue, Senior
41. San Antonio Spurs (via Portland): Adam Atamna, Shooting Guard, ASVEL (France)
42. Denver Nuggets (via Atlanta): Ryan Conwell. Shooting Guard, Louisville, Senior
43. Miami Heat (via Golden State): Alijah Arenas, Shooting Guard, USC, Freshman
44. Sacramento Kings (via Charlotte): Flory Bidunga, Center, Kansas, Sophomore
45. Brooklyn Nets (via LA Clippers): Milan Momcilovic, Power Forward, Iowa State, Junior
46. Phoenix Suns (via Philadelphia): Pryce Sandfort, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Nebraska, Sophomore
47. Orlando Magic: Rueben Chinyelu, Center, Florida, Junior
48. Toronto Raptors: Sergio de Larrea, Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Valencia (Spain)
49. Dallas Mavericks (via Phoenix): Dash Daniels, Point Guard/Shooting Guard. Melbourne United (Australia)
50. San Antonio Spurs (via Miami): Jaden Bradley, Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Arizona, Senior
51. Golden State Warriors (via Los Angeles): Baba Miller, Power Forward/Center, Cincinnati, Senior
52. Washington Wizards (via Minnesota): Tarris Reed Jr., Power Forward/Center, UConn, Senior
53. Chicago Bulls (via Denver): Bruce Thornton, Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Ohio State, Senior
54. Houston Rockets: Kylan Boswell, Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Illinois, Senior
55. LA Clippers (via Cleveland): Emanuel Sharp, Shooting Guard, Houston, Senior
56. Atlanta Hawks (via Boston): Richie Saunders, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, BYU, Senior
57. New York Knicks: Solo Ball, Shooting Guard, UConn, Junior
58. Minnesota Timberwolves (via San Antonio): Milos Uzan, Point Guard, Houston, Senior
59. New Orleans Pelicans (via Detroit): Maliq Brown, Power Forward/Center, Duke, Senior
60. Washington Wizards (via Oklahoma City): Trevon Brazile, Power Forward/Center, Arkansas, Senior