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NBA draft combine 2026 winners and losers: Who tested, measured the best?
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- NBA draft combine 2026 winners and losers: Who tested, measured the best?
CHICAGO — A.J. Dybantsa loaded up for another jumping attempt, and Cameron Boozer glanced over for a brief moment to watch as one of the players he's competing with to be the top pick in the 2026 NBA Draft soared more than 42 inches into the air. Boozer flashed a quick grin at the result, then got ready at the starting line for a shuttle run.
The best prospects in the highly-anticipated 2026 NBA draft class were on the same court together on Tuesday, May 12, running, jumping and shooting together in front of the biggest league decision-makers during the annual NBA Scouting Combine taking place at Wintrust Arena in Chicago this week.
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Though the film from actual games will do the heavy lifting for NBA teams evaluating players ahead of the draft on June 23-24, measurements, medical exams and agility drills conducted as part of the combine help differentiate similar prospects. Some players see their stock soar from a strong showing in Chicago. For others, the combine will be a humbling experience that leads to a return to school. The decision trees are more complicated now in the NIL era of college basketball .
Here's a breakdown of some winners and losers from the first two days of the NBA Scouting Combine , when the nearly 120 prospects in attendance went through anthrometric measurements, agility testing and shooting drills:
NBA DRAFT COMBINE: Ranking the top players in scrimmages this week
1. Washington Wizards: AJ DybantsaTEAM: BYU | POSITION: Wing | BORN: Massachusetts | HEIGHT: 6-9 | DRAFT AGE: 19 – The Wizards have the second-worst offense in the NBA and could instantly inject life into their offense by selecting AJ Dybantsa, the NCAA scoring champion and Julius Erving Award winner. He emphasized that point during his one game for BYU in March Madness, putting up 35 points and 10 rebounds. The Big 12 Rookie of the Year led the nation in unassisted points scored (680) by a wide margin this season, per CBB Analytics. The emerging star also had 40 points against Kansas State in the Big 12 Tournament on March 10 and averaged 28.8 points per game over his final 17 appearances.
2. Indiana Pacers: Cameron BoozerTEAM: Duke | POSITION: Forward | BORN: Florida | HEIGHT: 6-9 | DRAFT AGE: 18 – Duke freshman Cameron Boozer was dominant during his first NCAA season, earning national collegiate player of the year. According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, rival teams believe Boozer would be the "preferred selection" for the Pacers because of his "potential fit" alongside Pascal Siakam and Ivica Zubac. The ACC Player of the Year isnÕt a human highlight reel, but he offers consistency and a diverse, impactful skill set. More importantly, he can bring a culture of winning after multiple championships in high school and an elite Duke team that made it to the Sweet 16 before a heartbreaking last-second loss.
3. Brooklyn Nets: Darryn PetersonTEAM: Kansas POSITION: Guard BORN: Ohio HEIGHT: 6-5 DRAFT AGE: 19 While he is no longer perceived as the near-certain No. 1 overall pick that he once was due to relative inconsistency and injury issues, many scouts and evaluators feel that Darryn Peterson is the most talented player in this class. The Nets have the worst offense in the NBA and could change the course of the franchise by selecting Peterson. It is incredibly rare to find a prospect who is able to score as efficiently as Peterson did while holding a usage rate as high as his was this season.
4. Utah Jazz: Kingston FlemingsTEAM: Houston POSITION: Guard BORN: Texas HEIGHT: 6-4 DRAFT AGE: 19 While most project North Carolina freshman Caleb Wilson at No. 4 overall, he may not fit in UtahÕs crowded front court. Meanwhile, the Jazz currently have the worst defensive rating in the Western Conference and could potentially improve that by selecting Houston freshman Kingston Flemings. The All-Big 12 guard has several games when he has recorded at least three steals, notching eight against Arizona State earlier this season. He scored 42 points against No. 11 Texas Tech on Jan. 24. He helped lead Houston to the Sweet 16, and with highs as high as his were this season, it will not take long for him to hear his name called on draft night.
5. Sacramento Kings: Caleb WilsonTEAM: North Carolina POSITION: Big BORN: Georgia HEIGHT: 6-10 DRAFT AGE: 19 The Kings need the best player available, and that is North Carolina freshman Caleb Wilson, who unfortunately missed the NCAA Tournament with a broken thumb. Wilson, who also suffered a hand fracture earlier in the season, did more than enough to earn this placement, though. According to Bart Torvik, before the injury the All-ACC big man led the nation with 67 dunks recorded. He was also the only player under 20 years old to reach thresholds of 2.5 percent for both block and steal percentage while also notching a defensive rebound percentage above 20.0 percent.
6. Atlanta Hawks (via Pelicans): Darius Acuff Jr.TEAM: Arkansas POSITION: Guard BORN: Michigan HEIGHT: 6-3 DRAFT AGE: 19 The Hawks could use a guard like Arkansas freshman Darius Acuff Jr. after trading away Trae Young, using a first-round pick they received from the Pelicans. En route to the Sweet 16, the SEC Player of the Year proved he is one of the most enticing offensive prospects in recent memory. Acuff Jr. led the nation for points created (1,394) either by himself or through an assist, per CBB Analytics. He led freshmen for field goals made in transition (72) and field goals made from both the left and right side of the court. He was among the freshmen leaders in alley-oop assists (17) as well. He has significant defensive deficiencies but playing alongside Dyson Daniels would help cover that problem.
7. Dallas Mavericks: Keaton WaglerTEAM: Illinois POSITION: Wing BORN: Kansas HEIGHT: 6-6 DRAFT AGE: 19 The Mavericks have the worst offensive rating in the Western Conference and could benefit from a player like Illinois standout Keaton Wagler. The 19-year-old guard played a crucial role to help the Fighting Illini earn a spot in the Final Four, where he recorded 20 points and 8 rebounds against UConn in the national semifinals. The freshman also dropped 25 points in the Elite Eight. He projects as one of the best 3-point shooters in this class, shooting 39.7 percent from beyond the arc as a freshman. while connecting on as many as nine 3-pointers in a game. The Big Ten Rookie of the Year has athletic limitations but is a cerebral basketball player who is also averaging 5.1 rebounds and 4.2 assists per game this season.
8. Memphis Grizzlies: Yaxel LendeborgTEAM: Michigan POSITION: Forward BORN: New Jersey HEIGHT: 6-9 DRAFT AGE: 23 The Grizzlies could add to their rebuilding core after trading away Jaren Jackson Jr. by selecting Yaxel Lendeborg, who has shown on his way to the menÕs collegiate national championship game that he is perhaps the most NBA-ready player in this draft class. The Big Ten Player of the Year offers a bit of everything on both sides of the ball and has silenced skeptics who were unsure how his game would scale after transferring from mid-major UAB to high-major Michigan. The Grizzlies have drafted players with similar trajectories like Jaylen Wells and Cedric Coward.
9. Chicago Bulls: Brayden BurriesTEAM: Arizona POSITION: Guard BORN: California HEIGHT: 6-4 DRAFT AGE: 20 Arizona freshman Brayden Burries was an exciting prospect to watch during the Big Dance, making it all the way to the Final Four and dropping 23 points against Arkansas. He had two breakout games in January, which helped solidify his draft stock. But the All-Big 12 guard continued to display his tantalizing talent, scoring 31 points with seven rebounds and five steals against Colorado on March 7 and 20 points with 12 rebounds and five assists during a victory against No. 14 Kansas on Feb. 28. He has proven productivity, and he is able to defend, relocate, move the ball and make 3-pointers off the dribble. Burries would make a great pick for whatever new executives take over the front office for the Bulls.
10. Milwaukee Bucks: Mikel Brown Jr.TEAM: Louisville POSITION: Guard BORN: Florida HEIGHT: 6-5 DRAFT AGE: 20 The Milwaukee Bucks need to simply draft the best player available with whatever pick they have and will likely keep Louisville floor general Mikel Brown Jr. highlighted on their big board. The All-ACC guard has deep shooting range and was among the freshmen leaders in 3-pointers made from beyond 25 feet (27) this year, per CBB Analytics. Brown was averaging 29.2 points per game over his last five appearances, including 45 points against NC State on Feb. 9, while hitting 10 shots from beyond the arc, before an injury on Feb. 28 forced him to miss March Madness.
11. Golden State Warriors: Labaron PhilonTEAM: Alabama POSITION: Guard BORN: Alabama HEIGHT: 6-4 DRAFT AGE: 20 The Warriors could still use more reliable players in the backcourt and could find a fairly compelling player in Alabama sophomore Labaron Philon. Even though the All-SEC guard was not playing at 100 percent during March Madness due to injury issues, he played well in the tournament, recording 35 points during a loss against Michigan. He also notched 29 points in his first game and 12 assists in his second. The guard averaged 22.0 points per game, and he improved his 3-point shooting from 31.5 percent as a freshman to 39.9 percent as a sophomore, while also managing 5.0 assists per game in the process.
12. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Clippers): Hannes SteinbachTEAM: Washington POSITION: Big BORN: Germany HEIGHT: 6-11 DRAFT AGE: 20 After winning the 2025 NBA Finals, the Oklahoma City Thunder are projected to add even more lottery-caliber talent in the 2026 NBA Draft. They could use it to potentially replace Isaiah Hartenstein by drafting a younger German big man: Hannes Steinbach. While his team missed the tournament, the All-Big Ten post is an instinctive rebounder with great hands, including an absurd 24 rebounds against USC on March 4. Additionally, the center is one of the more prolific pick-and-roll finishers in college basketball. He shined during the FIBA U19 World Cup, and scouts love that he is a smart basketball player who can make great reads.
13. Portland Trail Blazers: Nate AmentTEAM: Tennessee POSITION: Wing BORN: Virginia HEIGHT: 6-10 DRAFT AGE: 19 After a relatively slow and inefficient start to the season, Tennessee freshman Nate Ament started to realize some of his lofty expectations. The freshman averaged 21.6 points per game, while shooting 38.9 percent on 3-pointers, during a 13-game stretch before an injury against Alabama on Feb. 28. The All-SEC forward then had 27 points (4-of-6 on 3-pointers) with eight rebounds, four assists, three blocks and a steal against Auburn on March 12. He was not as efficient during March Madness, but it will only take one team to fall in love with Ament, and that team is almost certainly picking in the lottery.
14. Miami Heat: Koa PeatTEAM: Arizona POSITION: Forward BORN: Arizona HEIGHT: 6-8 DRAFT AGE: 19 The Miami Heat have drafted several prospects known for their athleticism, which means a player like Arizona forward Koa Peat will probably have some appeal to the organization. Peat is an ideal match for this franchise given his versatility as a playmaking forward. Arizona played at a significantly faster pace (3.9 extra possessions) when Peat was on the floor relative to when he was not, per CBB Analytics, which would fit very well with MiamiÕs fastest-paced offense in the NBA. The All-Big 12 forward just needs a jumper to carve out regular minutes as a high-impact pro.
15. Charlotte Hornets: Braylon MullinsTEAM: Connecticut POSITION: Wing BORN: Indiana HEIGHT: 6-6 DRAFT AGE: 19 Braylon Mullins, a five-star recruit and former McDonald's All-American, was a breakout star in the NCAA menÕs basketball tournament after hitting one of the most improbable 3-pointers in March Madness history. Mullins continued to show a winning mentality, helping the Huskies earn a spot in the national championship game. The Big East All-Freshman wing shot 40.7 percent on 3-pointers during his first 18 games in the starting lineup. He is a useful off-ball threat, which gives him an immediately practical role at the next level.
16. Memphis Grizzlies (via Magic): Joshua JeffersonTEAM: Iowa State POSITION: Forward BORN: Nevada HEIGHT: 6-9 DRAFT AGE: 22 A few years ago, research indicated that the Grizzlies tend to value a few statistical similarities in their draftees: Efficient shot selection, added value beyond scoring and defensive playmaking. For the second year in a row, the Iowa State forward was an impactful dribble-pass-shoot forward who met many of the qualifications that led Memphis to find players who spent many years on their roster. The All-Big 12 forward got injured during the first round of the tournament, but Iowa State still earned a spot in the Sweet 16.
17. Toronto Raptors: Bennett StirtzTEAM: Iowa POSITION: Guard BORN: Missouri HEIGHT: 6-4 DRAFT AGE: 22 The Raptors could use another guard and should have Bennett Stirtz on their priority list. After transferring from Division II to a mid-major and then to a high-major program, he is at the top of the class in creating his own shot off the dribble in isolation or the pick-and-roll. The All-Big Ten guard can also finish plays from dribble handoffs. His play during March Madness, which included 24 points against Illinois and 20 points against Nebraska, earned a spot in the Elite Eight. The Raptors play at a slow pace, which would translate well for Stirtz, who did the same at Iowa.
18. Charlotte Hornets (via Suns): Jayden QuaintanceTEAM: Kentucky POSITION: Big BORN: Ohio HEIGHT: 6-9 DRAFT AGE: 18 Jayden Quaintance recorded just one start during his sophomore campaign as he recovered from a torn ACL, meniscus and fractured knee. The big man is still one of the youngest players in this class, but he has shown flashes during his time at Arizona State and Kentucky. When healthy, he is arguably the most talented defender in this draft class and could help a team that desperately needs frontcourt help, like the Hornets. But health may cause some concern for evaluators.
19. Oklahoma City Thunder (via 76ers): Karim López
TEAM: International (Australia) POSITION: Forward BORN: Mexico HEIGHT: 6-8 DRAFT AGE: 19 The Thunder have drafted multiple players from Australia’s NBL, including Josh Giddey. They could dip into this well again by selecting Karim López with their pick from the Philadelphia 76ers. While the Mexican-born forward still needs some development, he is physically gifted and widely seen as the top prospect from this class currently playing overseas. He exploded for 32 points (11-of-13 FG) with eight rebounds, two blocks and one steal against Melbourne on Jan. 30. Even if he is a draft-and-stash player, that is ideal for a team with a rotation as crowded as the Thunder.
20. San Antonio Spurs (via Hawks): Aday MaraTEAM: Michigan POSITION: Big BORN: Spain HEIGHT: 7-3 DRAFT AGE: 21 After leading his team to the NCAA championship game, Michigan center Aday Mara became one of the prospects who helped himself the most during March Madness. The 7-foot-3 big man, who transferred from UCLA, is a fantastic rim protector. Opponents only attempted 20.9 percent of their field goals at the rim when the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year was on the court, per CBB Analytics, which ranks near lowest among all NCAA players. He can also pass well, finding some awesome outlet looks in transition and at the rim. Especially in short spurts, Mara would make an excellent backup to Victor Wembanyama.
21. Detroit Pistons (via Timberwolves): Christian AndersonTEAM: Texas Tech POSITION: Guard BORN: Georgia HEIGHT: 6-3 DRAFT AGE: 20 While they are one of the best teams in the league this season, the Pistons are still struggling from the perimeter and could use more talented 3-point shooters on their roster. A simple fix would be drafting Texas Tech sophomore Christian Anderson, who had the most unassisted 3-pointers (61) among high-major players, per CBB Analytics. After moving from the two-guard to point guard, the All-Big 12 Most Improved Player recorded more than twice as many assists per 100 possessions as a sophomore compared to when he was a freshman.
22. New York Knicks: Chris Cenac Jr.TEAM: Houston POSITION: Big BORN: Louisiana HEIGHT: 6-11 DRAFT AGE: 19 It was an up-and-down season for former five-star recruit and McDonald's All-American Chris Cenac Jr. at Houston. While he still remains a candidate to return to college and improve his draft stock for the 2027 NBA Draft, Cenac Jr. got hot at the perfect time. During his first game in the Big Dance, the big man recorded a season-high 18 rebounds, while also knocking down a 3-pointer and grabbing a steal. Then in the Round of 32, he showed off more scoring with some impressive cuts to the basket, dropping 17 points against Texas A&M. He was quieter in the Sweet 16 but still managed 10 rebounds.
23. Denver Nuggets: Thomas HaughTEAM: Florida POSITION: Wing BORN: Pennsylvania HEIGHT: 6-9 DRAFT AGE: 22 After winning a national championship with Florida last season, Thomas Haugh was instantly regarded as one of the most interesting players who elected to return to college. The All-SEC forward had one of the top motors in the NCAA this season before an early elimination from March Madness. While he did not score efficiently in a set offense this year, he does not need the ball in his hands very often to make a difference on the floor for his team. He can serve as a glue guy for a contending team looking to win an NBA title like the Nuggets.
24. Atlanta Hawks (via Cavaliers): Patrick Ngongba IITEAM: Duke POSITION: Big BORN: Virginia HEIGHT: 6-11 DRAFT AGE: 20 Many teams could use a big man like Patrick Ngongba II, who is an above-average passer for his position. His assist rate is the highest among underclassmen listed at 6-foot-11 or taller, per Bart Torvik, and he is at the top of his game when passing to a driving perimeter player. The big man, who helped Duke earn a spot in the Elite Eight, is a big-bodied prospect who can carve out space as one of the more prolific cutters in college basketball. He is on an encouraging development track, displaying legitimate year-over-year improvement from his freshman to sophomore campaign.
25. Philadelphia 76ers (via Rockets): Allen GravesTEAM: Santa Clara POSITION: Forward BORN: Louisiana HEIGHT: 6-9 DRAFT AGE: 20 One of the most under-the-radar prospects in all of college basketball this season was Santa Clara freshman Allen Graves, who was nearly a March Madness hero. It was hard not to notice the WCC Rookie of the Year and Sixth Man of the Year after he scored 30 points with 13 rebounds, four assists and two steals Feb. 7 against Washington State. The only players under 21 years old who currently held a higher box plus-minus, via Bart Torvik, were Cameron Boozer and Caleb Wilson.
26. Los Angeles Lakers: Morez Johnson Jr.TEAM: Michigan POSITION: Big BORN: Illinois HEIGHT: 6-9 DRAFT AGE: 20 Morez Johnson Jr. is one of the best two-way players in the NCAA. He is a crucial part of the Michigan identity this season, leading his team to an appearance in the NCAA championship game, and has thrived since transferring to the Wolverines from Illinois. Johnson's shooting form at the free throw line looks good, and he scores well near the rim, especially when cutting to the basket. The former FIBA U-19 Team USA standout and All-Big Ten big man is a trustworthy defensive playmaker, too, and should find minutes at the next level.
27. Boston Celtics: Cameron CarrTEAM: Baylor POSITION: Wing BORN: Minnesota HEIGHT: 6-5 DRAFT AGE: 21 One of the players who improved his draft stock the most this season was Baylor junior Cameron Carr. The All-Big 12 wing brings athleticism and shooting and, per Bart Torvik, he was the only player to make at least 40 field goals that were dunks and more than 60 field goals that were 3-pointers this season. Baylor outscored opponents by an additional 28.5 points per 100 possessions when he was on the floor relative to when he was not, via CBB Analytics, which ranked as the fourth-most of any high-major player in the NCAA.
28. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Pistons): Tyler TannerTEAM: Vanderbilt POSITION: Guard BORN: Tennessee HEIGHT: 6-0 DRAFT AGE: 20 It is unusual to find a 6-foot sophomore projected in the first round of a mock draft, but if there were ever a player who has earned that kind of praise should he decide to turn pro after this season, it's Tyler Tanner. Despite his size, the All-SEC guard found meaningful ways to contribute on both sides of the floor. He can score efficiently, dunk, block shots, steal the ball, and he is more than serviceable as a floor general capable of earning rotation minutes for a team like the Timberwolves. Tanner could also return to school but should earn serious first-round buzz if he turns pro.
29. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Spurs): Dailyn SwainTEAM: Texas POSITION: Wing BORN: Ohio HEIGHT: 6-8 DRAFT AGE: 21 After transferring from Xavier to Texas during the offseason and then leading his team to the Sweet 16, Dailyn Swain became one of the more intriguing breakout players in college basketball. The All-SEC forward is versatile and contributed a little bit of everything for the Longhorns on both sides of the ball, scoring well both in the paint and on fastbreaks. Another element that is notably compelling is that Swain is efficient one-on-one in isolation against his defenders.
30. Dallas Mavericks (via Thunder): Amari AllenTEAM: Alabama POSITION: Wing BORN: Wisconsin HEIGHT: 6-7 DRAFT AGE: 20 Alabama's Amari Allen is a 6-foot-7 freshman who averaged 12.9 points, 6.9 rebounds and 2.9 assists with 1.7 "stocks" (combined steals and blocks), while shooting 39.5 percent on 3-pointers on 4.8 shots per game for the Crimson Tide during SEC conference play. The SEC All-Freshman wing is a good connective piece who plays hard, cares about winning and knows how to make the right play. Despite a weak showing against Michigan in the Sweet 16, he is still someone who could earn fringe first-round consideration.
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1. Washington Wizards: AJ DybantsaTEAM: BYU | POSITION: Wing | BORN: Massachusetts | HEIGHT: 6-9 | DRAFT AGE: 19 – The Wizards have the second-worst offense in the NBA and could instantly inject life into their offense by selecting AJ Dybantsa, the NCAA scoring champion and Julius Erving Award winner. He emphasized that point during his one game for BYU in March Madness, putting up 35 points and 10 rebounds. The Big 12 Rookie of the Year led the nation in unassisted points scored (680) by a wide margin this season, per CBB Analytics. The emerging star also had 40 points against Kansas State in the Big 12 Tournament on March 10 and averaged 28.8 points per game over his final 17 appearances.
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1. Washington Wizards: AJ DybantsaTEAM: BYU | POSITION: Wing | BORN: Massachusetts | HEIGHT: 6-9 | DRAFT AGE: 19 – The Wizards have the second-worst offense in the NBA and could instantly inject life into their offense by selecting AJ Dybantsa, the NCAA scoring champion and Julius Erving Award winner. He emphasized that point during his one game for BYU in March Madness, putting up 35 points and 10 rebounds. The Big 12 Rookie of the Year led the nation in unassisted points scored (680) by a wide margin this season, per CBB Analytics. The emerging star also had 40 points against Kansas State in the Big 12 Tournament on March 10 and averaged 28.8 points per game over his final 17 appearances.
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2. Indiana Pacers: Cameron BoozerTEAM: Duke | POSITION: Forward | BORN: Florida | HEIGHT: 6-9 | DRAFT AGE: 18 – Duke freshman Cameron Boozer was dominant during his first NCAA season, earning national collegiate player of the year. According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, rival teams believe Boozer would be the "preferred selection" for the Pacers because of his "potential fit" alongside Pascal Siakam and Ivica Zubac. The ACC Player of the Year isnÕt a human highlight reel, but he offers consistency and a diverse, impactful skill set. More importantly, he can bring a culture of winning after multiple championships in high school and an elite Duke team that made it to the Sweet 16 before a heartbreaking last-second loss.
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3. Brooklyn Nets: Darryn PetersonTEAM: Kansas POSITION: Guard BORN: Ohio HEIGHT: 6-5 DRAFT AGE: 19 While he is no longer perceived as the near-certain No. 1 overall pick that he once was due to relative inconsistency and injury issues, many scouts and evaluators feel that Darryn Peterson is the most talented player in this class. The Nets have the worst offense in the NBA and could change the course of the franchise by selecting Peterson. It is incredibly rare to find a prospect who is able to score as efficiently as Peterson did while holding a usage rate as high as his was this season.
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4. Utah Jazz: Kingston FlemingsTEAM: Houston POSITION: Guard BORN: Texas HEIGHT: 6-4 DRAFT AGE: 19 While most project North Carolina freshman Caleb Wilson at No. 4 overall, he may not fit in UtahÕs crowded front court. Meanwhile, the Jazz currently have the worst defensive rating in the Western Conference and could potentially improve that by selecting Houston freshman Kingston Flemings. The All-Big 12 guard has several games when he has recorded at least three steals, notching eight against Arizona State earlier this season. He scored 42 points against No. 11 Texas Tech on Jan. 24. He helped lead Houston to the Sweet 16, and with highs as high as his were this season, it will not take long for him to hear his name called on draft night.
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5. Sacramento Kings: Caleb WilsonTEAM: North Carolina POSITION: Big BORN: Georgia HEIGHT: 6-10 DRAFT AGE: 19 The Kings need the best player available, and that is North Carolina freshman Caleb Wilson, who unfortunately missed the NCAA Tournament with a broken thumb. Wilson, who also suffered a hand fracture earlier in the season, did more than enough to earn this placement, though. According to Bart Torvik, before the injury the All-ACC big man led the nation with 67 dunks recorded. He was also the only player under 20 years old to reach thresholds of 2.5 percent for both block and steal percentage while also notching a defensive rebound percentage above 20.0 percent.
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6. Atlanta Hawks (via Pelicans): Darius Acuff Jr.TEAM: Arkansas POSITION: Guard BORN: Michigan HEIGHT: 6-3 DRAFT AGE: 19 The Hawks could use a guard like Arkansas freshman Darius Acuff Jr. after trading away Trae Young, using a first-round pick they received from the Pelicans. En route to the Sweet 16, the SEC Player of the Year proved he is one of the most enticing offensive prospects in recent memory. Acuff Jr. led the nation for points created (1,394) either by himself or through an assist, per CBB Analytics. He led freshmen for field goals made in transition (72) and field goals made from both the left and right side of the court. He was among the freshmen leaders in alley-oop assists (17) as well. He has significant defensive deficiencies but playing alongside Dyson Daniels would help cover that problem.
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7. Dallas Mavericks: Keaton WaglerTEAM: Illinois POSITION: Wing BORN: Kansas HEIGHT: 6-6 DRAFT AGE: 19 The Mavericks have the worst offensive rating in the Western Conference and could benefit from a player like Illinois standout Keaton Wagler. The 19-year-old guard played a crucial role to help the Fighting Illini earn a spot in the Final Four, where he recorded 20 points and 8 rebounds against UConn in the national semifinals. The freshman also dropped 25 points in the Elite Eight. He projects as one of the best 3-point shooters in this class, shooting 39.7 percent from beyond the arc as a freshman. while connecting on as many as nine 3-pointers in a game. The Big Ten Rookie of the Year has athletic limitations but is a cerebral basketball player who is also averaging 5.1 rebounds and 4.2 assists per game this season.
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8. Memphis Grizzlies: Yaxel LendeborgTEAM: Michigan POSITION: Forward BORN: New Jersey HEIGHT: 6-9 DRAFT AGE: 23 The Grizzlies could add to their rebuilding core after trading away Jaren Jackson Jr. by selecting Yaxel Lendeborg, who has shown on his way to the menÕs collegiate national championship game that he is perhaps the most NBA-ready player in this draft class. The Big Ten Player of the Year offers a bit of everything on both sides of the ball and has silenced skeptics who were unsure how his game would scale after transferring from mid-major UAB to high-major Michigan. The Grizzlies have drafted players with similar trajectories like Jaylen Wells and Cedric Coward.
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9. Chicago Bulls: Brayden BurriesTEAM: Arizona POSITION: Guard BORN: California HEIGHT: 6-4 DRAFT AGE: 20 Arizona freshman Brayden Burries was an exciting prospect to watch during the Big Dance, making it all the way to the Final Four and dropping 23 points against Arkansas. He had two breakout games in January, which helped solidify his draft stock. But the All-Big 12 guard continued to display his tantalizing talent, scoring 31 points with seven rebounds and five steals against Colorado on March 7 and 20 points with 12 rebounds and five assists during a victory against No. 14 Kansas on Feb. 28. He has proven productivity, and he is able to defend, relocate, move the ball and make 3-pointers off the dribble. Burries would make a great pick for whatever new executives take over the front office for the Bulls.
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10. Milwaukee Bucks: Mikel Brown Jr.TEAM: Louisville POSITION: Guard BORN: Florida HEIGHT: 6-5 DRAFT AGE: 20 The Milwaukee Bucks need to simply draft the best player available with whatever pick they have and will likely keep Louisville floor general Mikel Brown Jr. highlighted on their big board. The All-ACC guard has deep shooting range and was among the freshmen leaders in 3-pointers made from beyond 25 feet (27) this year, per CBB Analytics. Brown was averaging 29.2 points per game over his last five appearances, including 45 points against NC State on Feb. 9, while hitting 10 shots from beyond the arc, before an injury on Feb. 28 forced him to miss March Madness.
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11. Golden State Warriors: Labaron PhilonTEAM: Alabama POSITION: Guard BORN: Alabama HEIGHT: 6-4 DRAFT AGE: 20 The Warriors could still use more reliable players in the backcourt and could find a fairly compelling player in Alabama sophomore Labaron Philon. Even though the All-SEC guard was not playing at 100 percent during March Madness due to injury issues, he played well in the tournament, recording 35 points during a loss against Michigan. He also notched 29 points in his first game and 12 assists in his second. The guard averaged 22.0 points per game, and he improved his 3-point shooting from 31.5 percent as a freshman to 39.9 percent as a sophomore, while also managing 5.0 assists per game in the process.
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12. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Clippers): Hannes SteinbachTEAM: Washington POSITION: Big BORN: Germany HEIGHT: 6-11 DRAFT AGE: 20 After winning the 2025 NBA Finals, the Oklahoma City Thunder are projected to add even more lottery-caliber talent in the 2026 NBA Draft. They could use it to potentially replace Isaiah Hartenstein by drafting a younger German big man: Hannes Steinbach. While his team missed the tournament, the All-Big Ten post is an instinctive rebounder with great hands, including an absurd 24 rebounds against USC on March 4. Additionally, the center is one of the more prolific pick-and-roll finishers in college basketball. He shined during the FIBA U19 World Cup, and scouts love that he is a smart basketball player who can make great reads.
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13. Portland Trail Blazers: Nate AmentTEAM: Tennessee POSITION: Wing BORN: Virginia HEIGHT: 6-10 DRAFT AGE: 19 After a relatively slow and inefficient start to the season, Tennessee freshman Nate Ament started to realize some of his lofty expectations. The freshman averaged 21.6 points per game, while shooting 38.9 percent on 3-pointers, during a 13-game stretch before an injury against Alabama on Feb. 28. The All-SEC forward then had 27 points (4-of-6 on 3-pointers) with eight rebounds, four assists, three blocks and a steal against Auburn on March 12. He was not as efficient during March Madness, but it will only take one team to fall in love with Ament, and that team is almost certainly picking in the lottery.
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14. Miami Heat: Koa PeatTEAM: Arizona POSITION: Forward BORN: Arizona HEIGHT: 6-8 DRAFT AGE: 19 The Miami Heat have drafted several prospects known for their athleticism, which means a player like Arizona forward Koa Peat will probably have some appeal to the organization. Peat is an ideal match for this franchise given his versatility as a playmaking forward. Arizona played at a significantly faster pace (3.9 extra possessions) when Peat was on the floor relative to when he was not, per CBB Analytics, which would fit very well with MiamiÕs fastest-paced offense in the NBA. The All-Big 12 forward just needs a jumper to carve out regular minutes as a high-impact pro.
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15. Charlotte Hornets: Braylon MullinsTEAM: Connecticut POSITION: Wing BORN: Indiana HEIGHT: 6-6 DRAFT AGE: 19 Braylon Mullins, a five-star recruit and former McDonald's All-American, was a breakout star in the NCAA menÕs basketball tournament after hitting one of the most improbable 3-pointers in March Madness history. Mullins continued to show a winning mentality, helping the Huskies earn a spot in the national championship game. The Big East All-Freshman wing shot 40.7 percent on 3-pointers during his first 18 games in the starting lineup. He is a useful off-ball threat, which gives him an immediately practical role at the next level.
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16. Memphis Grizzlies (via Magic): Joshua JeffersonTEAM: Iowa State POSITION: Forward BORN: Nevada HEIGHT: 6-9 DRAFT AGE: 22 A few years ago, research indicated that the Grizzlies tend to value a few statistical similarities in their draftees: Efficient shot selection, added value beyond scoring and defensive playmaking. For the second year in a row, the Iowa State forward was an impactful dribble-pass-shoot forward who met many of the qualifications that led Memphis to find players who spent many years on their roster. The All-Big 12 forward got injured during the first round of the tournament, but Iowa State still earned a spot in the Sweet 16.
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17. Toronto Raptors: Bennett StirtzTEAM: Iowa POSITION: Guard BORN: Missouri HEIGHT: 6-4 DRAFT AGE: 22 The Raptors could use another guard and should have Bennett Stirtz on their priority list. After transferring from Division II to a mid-major and then to a high-major program, he is at the top of the class in creating his own shot off the dribble in isolation or the pick-and-roll. The All-Big Ten guard can also finish plays from dribble handoffs. His play during March Madness, which included 24 points against Illinois and 20 points against Nebraska, earned a spot in the Elite Eight. The Raptors play at a slow pace, which would translate well for Stirtz, who did the same at Iowa.
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18. Charlotte Hornets (via Suns): Jayden QuaintanceTEAM: Kentucky POSITION: Big BORN: Ohio HEIGHT: 6-9 DRAFT AGE: 18 Jayden Quaintance recorded just one start during his sophomore campaign as he recovered from a torn ACL, meniscus and fractured knee. The big man is still one of the youngest players in this class, but he has shown flashes during his time at Arizona State and Kentucky. When healthy, he is arguably the most talented defender in this draft class and could help a team that desperately needs frontcourt help, like the Hornets. But health may cause some concern for evaluators.
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19. Oklahoma City Thunder (via 76ers): Karim López
TEAM: International (Australia) POSITION: Forward BORN: Mexico HEIGHT: 6-8 DRAFT AGE: 19 The Thunder have drafted multiple players from Australia’s NBL, including Josh Giddey. They could dip into this well again by selecting Karim López with their pick from the Philadelphia 76ers. While the Mexican-born forward still needs some development, he is physically gifted and widely seen as the top prospect from this class currently playing overseas. He exploded for 32 points (11-of-13 FG) with eight rebounds, two blocks and one steal against Melbourne on Jan. 30. Even if he is a draft-and-stash player, that is ideal for a team with a rotation as crowded as the Thunder.
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20. San Antonio Spurs (via Hawks): Aday MaraTEAM: Michigan POSITION: Big BORN: Spain HEIGHT: 7-3 DRAFT AGE: 21 After leading his team to the NCAA championship game, Michigan center Aday Mara became one of the prospects who helped himself the most during March Madness. The 7-foot-3 big man, who transferred from UCLA, is a fantastic rim protector. Opponents only attempted 20.9 percent of their field goals at the rim when the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year was on the court, per CBB Analytics, which ranks near lowest among all NCAA players. He can also pass well, finding some awesome outlet looks in transition and at the rim. Especially in short spurts, Mara would make an excellent backup to Victor Wembanyama.
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21. Detroit Pistons (via Timberwolves): Christian AndersonTEAM: Texas Tech POSITION: Guard BORN: Georgia HEIGHT: 6-3 DRAFT AGE: 20 While they are one of the best teams in the league this season, the Pistons are still struggling from the perimeter and could use more talented 3-point shooters on their roster. A simple fix would be drafting Texas Tech sophomore Christian Anderson, who had the most unassisted 3-pointers (61) among high-major players, per CBB Analytics. After moving from the two-guard to point guard, the All-Big 12 Most Improved Player recorded more than twice as many assists per 100 possessions as a sophomore compared to when he was a freshman.
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22. New York Knicks: Chris Cenac Jr.TEAM: Houston POSITION: Big BORN: Louisiana HEIGHT: 6-11 DRAFT AGE: 19 It was an up-and-down season for former five-star recruit and McDonald's All-American Chris Cenac Jr. at Houston. While he still remains a candidate to return to college and improve his draft stock for the 2027 NBA Draft, Cenac Jr. got hot at the perfect time. During his first game in the Big Dance, the big man recorded a season-high 18 rebounds, while also knocking down a 3-pointer and grabbing a steal. Then in the Round of 32, he showed off more scoring with some impressive cuts to the basket, dropping 17 points against Texas A&M. He was quieter in the Sweet 16 but still managed 10 rebounds.
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23. Denver Nuggets: Thomas HaughTEAM: Florida POSITION: Wing BORN: Pennsylvania HEIGHT: 6-9 DRAFT AGE: 22 After winning a national championship with Florida last season, Thomas Haugh was instantly regarded as one of the most interesting players who elected to return to college. The All-SEC forward had one of the top motors in the NCAA this season before an early elimination from March Madness. While he did not score efficiently in a set offense this year, he does not need the ball in his hands very often to make a difference on the floor for his team. He can serve as a glue guy for a contending team looking to win an NBA title like the Nuggets.
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24. Atlanta Hawks (via Cavaliers): Patrick Ngongba IITEAM: Duke POSITION: Big BORN: Virginia HEIGHT: 6-11 DRAFT AGE: 20 Many teams could use a big man like Patrick Ngongba II, who is an above-average passer for his position. His assist rate is the highest among underclassmen listed at 6-foot-11 or taller, per Bart Torvik, and he is at the top of his game when passing to a driving perimeter player. The big man, who helped Duke earn a spot in the Elite Eight, is a big-bodied prospect who can carve out space as one of the more prolific cutters in college basketball. He is on an encouraging development track, displaying legitimate year-over-year improvement from his freshman to sophomore campaign.
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25. Philadelphia 76ers (via Rockets): Allen GravesTEAM: Santa Clara POSITION: Forward BORN: Louisiana HEIGHT: 6-9 DRAFT AGE: 20 One of the most under-the-radar prospects in all of college basketball this season was Santa Clara freshman Allen Graves, who was nearly a March Madness hero. It was hard not to notice the WCC Rookie of the Year and Sixth Man of the Year after he scored 30 points with 13 rebounds, four assists and two steals Feb. 7 against Washington State. The only players under 21 years old who currently held a higher box plus-minus, via Bart Torvik, were Cameron Boozer and Caleb Wilson.
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26. Los Angeles Lakers: Morez Johnson Jr.TEAM: Michigan POSITION: Big BORN: Illinois HEIGHT: 6-9 DRAFT AGE: 20 Morez Johnson Jr. is one of the best two-way players in the NCAA. He is a crucial part of the Michigan identity this season, leading his team to an appearance in the NCAA championship game, and has thrived since transferring to the Wolverines from Illinois. Johnson's shooting form at the free throw line looks good, and he scores well near the rim, especially when cutting to the basket. The former FIBA U-19 Team USA standout and All-Big Ten big man is a trustworthy defensive playmaker, too, and should find minutes at the next level.
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27. Boston Celtics: Cameron CarrTEAM: Baylor POSITION: Wing BORN: Minnesota HEIGHT: 6-5 DRAFT AGE: 21 One of the players who improved his draft stock the most this season was Baylor junior Cameron Carr. The All-Big 12 wing brings athleticism and shooting and, per Bart Torvik, he was the only player to make at least 40 field goals that were dunks and more than 60 field goals that were 3-pointers this season. Baylor outscored opponents by an additional 28.5 points per 100 possessions when he was on the floor relative to when he was not, via CBB Analytics, which ranked as the fourth-most of any high-major player in the NCAA.
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28. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Pistons): Tyler TannerTEAM: Vanderbilt POSITION: Guard BORN: Tennessee HEIGHT: 6-0 DRAFT AGE: 20 It is unusual to find a 6-foot sophomore projected in the first round of a mock draft, but if there were ever a player who has earned that kind of praise should he decide to turn pro after this season, it's Tyler Tanner. Despite his size, the All-SEC guard found meaningful ways to contribute on both sides of the floor. He can score efficiently, dunk, block shots, steal the ball, and he is more than serviceable as a floor general capable of earning rotation minutes for a team like the Timberwolves. Tanner could also return to school but should earn serious first-round buzz if he turns pro.
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29. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Spurs): Dailyn SwainTEAM: Texas POSITION: Wing BORN: Ohio HEIGHT: 6-8 DRAFT AGE: 21 After transferring from Xavier to Texas during the offseason and then leading his team to the Sweet 16, Dailyn Swain became one of the more intriguing breakout players in college basketball. The All-SEC forward is versatile and contributed a little bit of everything for the Longhorns on both sides of the ball, scoring well both in the paint and on fastbreaks. Another element that is notably compelling is that Swain is efficient one-on-one in isolation against his defenders.
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30. Dallas Mavericks (via Thunder): Amari AllenTEAM: Alabama POSITION: Wing BORN: Wisconsin HEIGHT: 6-7 DRAFT AGE: 20 Alabama's Amari Allen is a 6-foot-7 freshman who averaged 12.9 points, 6.9 rebounds and 2.9 assists with 1.7 "stocks" (combined steals and blocks), while shooting 39.5 percent on 3-pointers on 4.8 shots per game for the Crimson Tide during SEC conference play. The SEC All-Freshman wing is a good connective piece who plays hard, cares about winning and knows how to make the right play. Despite a weak showing against Michigan in the Sweet 16, he is still someone who could earn fringe first-round consideration.
Winners
Note: All times and agility drill testing figures are unofficial, according to the NBA.
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A.J. Dybantsa, BYU
Well, sort of. Compared to the projected top-three prospects in this draft class – Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson of Kansas and Duke's Cameron Boozer – Dybantsa did the best, particularly when it came to athletic testing. His 42-inch max vertical jump and 33.5-inch no step vertical jump were among the best at the combine and cemented his status as something of a physical freak after measuring taller than 6-foot-8 without shoes. He also made 23 of 30 off-dribble 3-pointers, better than Peterson and Boozer.
But the difference between the three remains slim based on Tuesday's testing results. Boozer, for instance, also measured well at more than 6-foot-8 without shoes and a 9-foot wingspan. He also shot the best of the three by hitting 59% of his 3-pointers overall during shooting drills. Peterson did the best in the shuttle run (2.95 seconds) and shot 58.8% on his 3-pointers overall.
Aday Mara and Morez Johnson , Michigan
Though Mara and Johnson can still technically return to Michigan, their measurables and agility testing might cement their decision to stay in the draft.
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Mara checked in at 7-foot-3 without shoes and had a 9-foot-9 standing reach when tested by NBA Scouting Combine officials. That's tied for the second-longest standing reach in combine history, according to Jonathan Givony of Draft Express . Combined with his encouraging performance during Michigan's national championship run, Mara has likely worked his way into the lottery.
Johnson checked in at 6-foot-9 without shoes and a 7-foot-3 wingspan, which compare favorably with NBA power forwards. He then performed well during agility testing on Monday at Wintrust Arena, logging the best pro lane drill time among big men in attendance.
Brayden Burries , Arizona
Burries might have locked himself in as a top-10 pick after checking in at nearly 6-foot-4 without shoes, while weighing a sturdy 215 pounds. He then stood out during agility and shooting drills on Tuesday, hitting nearly 61% of his 3-pointers, while ranking among the best at the combine in the pro lane drill and no step vertical jump testing (35-inch). His combination of shooting and athleticism will be hard for lottery teams to pass up.
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Kingston Flemings , Houston
One of the elite point guards in this class had one of the smallest wing spans in the class during measurements but did a nice job making NBA folks forget that with a great performance in testing on Tuesday. At one point, he ranked among the top five prospects in nearly every agility drill at the combine and helped his cause more by shooting the ball well.
Losers
Koa Peat , Arizona
Peat's outside shooting issues have contributed to questions about his draft stock, and he did nothing to ease those concerns in Chicago. He shot just 36.2% in all 3-point shooting drills, measured at just 6-foot-7 without shoes and also had a slow shuttle run. On the bright side, he did have an impressive 38.5-inch no step vertical jump. This nonetheless could push Peat to improve his stock and go back to Arizona, where it might be more lucrative than what he would make as a late first-round draft pick.
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Amari Allen, Alabama
Allen had impressive numbers in athletic and agility testing, including a max vertical jump of 42.5 inches. But the potential first-round pick makes this list because he measured at just over 6-foot-5 without shoes, well below his listed height of 6-8 with the Crimson Tide this past season. That could affect his stock.
Allen Graves, Santa Clara
Graves was an unheralded recruit who broke out as a potential first-round pick during his redshirt freshman season at Santa Clara this past year, but he had a poor showing in testing on Tuesday. He finished outside the top 50 in every agility drill and didn't do well in 3-point shooting drills. Graves would be one of the most coveted players in college basketball's transfer portal if he returns to school.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NBA draft winners, losers from scouting combine drills, measurements
