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NBA rumors: Knicks, Spurs, Thunder, Celtics, Lakers all interested in rising Syracuse prospect
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- NBA rumors: Knicks, Spurs, Thunder, Celtics, Lakers all interested in rising Syracuse prospect
NBA rumors: Knicks, Spurs, Thunder, Celtics, Lakers all interested in rising Syracuse prospect appeared first on ClutchPoints . Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here .
As the 2026 NBA Draft approaches on June 23 and 24 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn , Syracuse forward William Kyle III is emerging as a prospect drawing significant interest from several of the league's top contenders.
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According to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, Kyle has generated enough momentum during the pre-draft process that he has elected to end his workout schedule early after receiving strong feedback from teams around the league.
"Syracuse's William Kyle III has had enough positive feedback after visiting with 11 teams that he's shutting down his pre-draft circuit and declining five additional workout invitations," Fischer reported.
"Among the clubs said to have interest in Kyle: Both Finals teams — New York and San Antonio — as well as Oklahoma City , Boston and the Lakers."
The list of interested teams highlights how much Kyle's stock has risen in recent weeks. The New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs recently met in the NBA Finals, while the Oklahoma City Thunder , Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers all enter the offseason with championship aspirations.
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Although Kyle is not projected to be selected near the top of the draft, teams appear intrigued by his size, athleticism and defensive upside.
William Kyle III's stock continues to rise ahead of the 2026 NBA Draft
ClutchPoints NBA insider Brett Siegel recently projected Kyle as the No. 92 overall prospect in the 2026 draft class .
The 22-year-old enjoyed a productive senior season at Syracuse, averaging 8.4 points, 7.1 rebounds, 2.5 blocks and 1.0 steal per game while shooting 66.1% from the field across 32 appearances. He logged 28.1 minutes per contest and established himself as one of the top rim protectors in the ACC.
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Kyle's physical tools also stand out. He is listed at 6-foot-9 and 230 pounds with a 7-foot-3 wingspan, measurements that could allow him to contribute as a versatile frontcourt defender at the next level.
With less than two weeks remaining before draft night, Kyle's decision to shut down workouts suggests growing confidence that he has already made a strong impression on NBA evaluators. Whether it is the Knicks, Spurs, Thunder, Celtics, Lakers or another team entirely, the Syracuse product appears to have positioned himself firmly on the draft radar heading into Brooklyn .
Related: NBA rumors: Thunder present Kings with intriguing draft trade option
Related: NBA rumors: Mavericks talking with multiple teams about draft trade
