By Jeremy Woo | ESPN, 2025-11-18 20:00:00
大学篮球赛季已进行数周，围绕2026年选秀的热议持续升温，众多明星大一新生领衔本届选秀，并迅速适应了更高水平的比赛。现在，是时候推出我们本赛季的首份模拟选秀了。
NBA球队的高管们得益于11月便利的赛程，其中包含了一系列意义重大的潜力新秀对决，例如冠军精英赛（11月18日）以及下周在拉斯维加斯举行的球员时代锦标赛——该赛事囊括了18支球队，届时将上演更多新秀云集的强强对话。这届选秀仍然被视为近年来实力最强的选秀之一，不仅在顶端顺位拥有高水平球员，首轮的深度也在不断加强。
我们深知，从现在到明年六月，情况会发生巨大变化，但这份模拟选秀旨在预测，如果NBA球队今天就进行选秀，结果会是怎样。这些预测并非顶级新秀的排名——如需排名，请查阅ESPN百大新秀榜。这些预测是基于我与NBA高管和球探的持续交流，以及我亲临现场观赛和录像分析后得出的个人评估。
选秀顺位是根据ESPN截至11月14日的BPI（篮球实力指数）排名制定的。
更多NBA选秀报道：
拥有最多NBA潜力新秀的10支大学球队
2026届百大新秀排名 | 更多
首轮选秀
1. 布鲁克林篮网
达林·彼得森 (Darryn Peterson)，控卫/分卫，堪萨斯大学
大一新生
2025-26赛季数据： 两场比赛场均21.5分，3.5篮板，3.0助攻
彼得森因腿筋问题错过了堪萨斯大学过去几场比赛，主教练比尔·塞尔夫 (Bill Self) 形容他“短期内”无法出战，这让他能否参加周二对阵卡梅隆·布泽尔 (Cameron Boozer) 和杜克大学的焦点战成疑。尽管截至周二上午官方尚未宣布他缺席，但那场比赛本是他证明自己为何被NBA高管们视为状元秀讨论核心的绝佳机会。彼得森充满活力的三个级别得分能力、出色的身体天赋、防守韧性以及竞争精神等无形资产，使他跻身近年来最全面、最具影响力的大一后卫行列。值得注意的是，NBA评估人士至今对杰鹰队（堪萨斯大学）的角色球员阵容表现平平感到失望，堪萨斯大学本赛季能走多远，似乎取决于彼得森能扛起多大的责任。随着赛季的深入，状元之位尚有争论空间，但如果选秀在今天举行，彼得森很可能会是最终选择。然而，他若长时间缺阵，则会给迪班萨和布泽尔留下追赶的机会。
篮网迫切需要一名球员来作为球队未来的基石；他们在2025年选秀中用了五个首轮签，但仍在摸索如何让每个人融入长期计划。彼得森的到来将解决他们缺乏明星球员的问题，甚至带来更多惊喜。
2. 华盛顿奇才
AJ·迪班萨 (AJ Dybantsa)，小前锋，杨百翰大学
大一新生
2025-26赛季数据： 四场比赛场均20.3分，6.8篮板，2.0助攻
周六在波士顿，迪班萨成为全场焦点，大批NBA代表到场观看了杨百翰大学对阵康涅狄格大学的比赛。他在上半场表现挣扎后，下半场展现了其诱人的得分潜力，这既指出了外界对他稳定性和场上习惯的一些担忧，也提醒了人们他非凡的天赋。总体而言，他的效率一直很高。他能频繁制造犯规，并努力打团队篮球，但他仍在学习如何阅读比赛节奏以及何时该更具侵略性。迪班萨出色的身体素质让他作为一名侧翼得分手拥有顶级的潜力，并且在防守端也应能贡献价值，但他需要展现出进步，才能最大化自己当选状元的机会。
奇才是少数几支对2026年乐透抽签寄予厚望的球队之一——他们从2024届新秀亚历克斯·萨尔 (Alex Sarr) 和基肖恩·乔治 (Kyshawn George) 身上看到了积极的回报，但仍在寻找一位可以围绕其打造进攻体系的年轻球星。迪班萨将为球队阵容带来所缺乏的冲击篮筐的元素。
3. 犹他爵士
卡梅隆·布泽尔 (Cameron Boozer)，大前锋/中锋，杜克大学
大一新生
2025-26赛季数据： 四场比赛场均22.5分，10.3篮板，4.3助攻
尽管在对阵德克萨斯大学的首秀中表现平平，凸显了球探们对他运动能力的一些担忧，但布泽尔将在周二对阵堪萨斯大学的比赛中获得一个巨大的舞台，预计绝大多数NBA决策者都将到场观战。他是一位技术全面的全能型球员，除了纯粹的得分外，还能为球队胜利做出贡献，这应该有助于弥补他垂直爆发力不足的短板。随着他逐渐适应大学篮球，他过往出色的履历将为他赢得一些信任，而他高产的数据表现也将使他与彼得森和迪班萨一起，继续留在状元秀的讨论中。
犹他本赛季的开局好于预期，但在ESPN的BPI胜场预测中仍位列倒数三名，并且最近因伤失去了整个赛季的沃克·凯斯勒 (Walker Kessler)。如果爵士的选秀权跌出前八，它将被送往俄克拉荷马城，这也为爵士再摆烂一个赛季增加了额外的动机。布泽尔将非常适合作为进攻核心，与埃斯·贝利 (Ace Bailey) 搭档。
4. 印第安纳步行者
内特·阿门特 (Nate Ament)，小前锋/大前锋，田纳西大学
大一新生
2025-26赛季数据： 四场比赛场均20分，8.7篮板，3.7助攻
赛季初，阿门特在对阵实力较弱的对手时打出了高效表现，下周他将在拉斯维加斯接受严密审视，预计全部30支NBA球队都将派遣决策者前往观看这场新秀云集的球员时代锦标赛。阿门特仍在学习如何利用他6英尺10英寸、207磅的身材来得分，但他积极冲击篮下并制造犯规的表现令人鼓舞。球探们渴望在更高水平的竞争中评估他，但随着经验的增长，他的身材和技术组合预示着极佳的潜力。
步行者毁灭性的伤病厄运延续到了常规赛——安德鲁·内姆哈德 (Andrew Nembhard)、本尼迪克特·马图林 (Bennedict Mathurin) 和阿龙·内史密斯 (Aaron Nesmith) 都是受伤的知名球员。印第安纳在春天决定重新换回自己的2026年首轮签，现在看来尤为精明，这为球队提供了一份保障，也为进入一个天赋满满的选秀大年乐透区铺平了道路。在1胜13负的开局后，步行者或许应该考虑彻底摆烂，着眼于下赛季在泰瑞斯·哈利伯顿 (Tyrese Haliburton) 健康回归后卷土重来。
5. 亚特兰大老鹰 (来自新奥尔良)
凯莱布·威尔逊 (Caleb Wilson)，大前锋/中锋，北卡罗来纳大学
大一新生
2025-26赛季数据： 四场比赛场均20分，9.5篮板，3助攻
威尔逊进入大学后似乎取得了显著的进步，他新展现出的竞争欲望给NBA球队留下了深刻印象，并转化为亮眼的数据。他在防守端禁区内和篮板上的活力与影响力起到了巨大作用，再结合他出色的球感和传球能力。未来的主要挑战将是评估他的跳投前景，因为他几乎不出手三分，并且罚球命中率也不稳定（68.8%）。如果这个方面没有重大进步，他不太可能在NBA成为进攻焦点，但一些球探认为，如果威尔逊能保持目前的表现水平，他有机会跃升至本届新秀的顶尖行列。
亚特兰大交易掉2025年乐透签从新奥尔良换来这个选秀权的决定，看来将让他们受益匪浅，因为2胜12负的鹈鹕队持续滑坡，很有可能送出一个高顺位签。无论如何，这个选秀权对老鹰来说都将是一份奢侈的礼物。
6. 萨克拉门托国王
米克尔·布朗二世 (Mikel Brown Jr.)，控卫，路易斯维尔大学
大一新生
2025-26赛季数据： 四场比赛场均19.3分，2.5篮板，6.8助攻
在对阵肯塔基大学的同城德比中狂砍29分，标志着布朗二世正式在大学舞台上亮相，并凸显了外界对他NBA潜力和发展轨迹的兴奋之情。他无论是运球后还是接球就投，都能在三分线外开火（三分命中率36%），同时还能为队友创造机会，这让他拥有极佳的潜力。此外，继续以更强的侵略性冲击篮下并站上罚球线将有助于提升他的行情。目前可以合理预测，他将是继达林·彼得森之后第一位被选中的后卫，而布朗二世最终的顺位可能取决于那些需要控卫的球队最终抽到哪个位置。
对于3胜11负的国王来说，本赛季的开局无疑是充满挑战的。他们手握自己的选秀权，或许需要考虑从目前这个由拿着高薪合同的老将组成的核心阵容转型。本届乐透区的高水平天赋使得这一转变更为可行，而国王对年轻组织者的需求应该会让布朗二世成为一个明确的考虑对象。
7. 夏洛特黄蜂
克里斯·塞纳克二世 (Chris Cenac Jr.)，大前锋/中锋，休斯顿大学
大一新生
2025-26赛季数据： 四场比赛场均10.8分，9篮板，0.5助攻
塞纳克在大学赛季初表现稳定，并且似乎已经完全融入了他在休斯顿大学的角色，在篮板上发挥作用，并展现了他在跳投方面的自如。随着他的上场时间趋于稳定，他还有很大的提升空间，尤其是在进攻端，他需要适应在内线对抗更年长、更强壮的大学大个子。他离达到自己的上限还有很长的路要走，但他拥有成为现代移动型、能护筐的空间型五号位所需的良好工具，而这类球员在本届新秀中并不多见。
黄蜂队从他们的新秀身上得到了不错的前期回报，包括康·克努佩尔 (Kon Knueppel) 和莱恩·卡尔克布伦纳 (Ryan Kalkbrenner)，但他们是否已经准备好真正冲击附加赛席位还有待观察。塞纳克的臂展和移动能力可以为他们的前场带来长期的补强。
8. 达拉斯独行侠
科阿·皮特 (Koa Peat)，大前锋/中锋，亚利桑那大学
大一新生
2025-26赛季数据： 四场比赛场均16.3分，5.3篮板，2.8助攻
皮特凭借赛季初的强劲表现给人留下了深刻印象，并巩固了自己在乐透区的讨论地位，他的身体素质和内线影响力对亚利桑那大学至关重要。他缺乏投射范围以及作为四号位身高不足（6英尺8英寸）被认为是他的限制因素，但人们很容易欣赏他作为球员明确的定位。如果皮特能开发出三分球，很难想象他无法在NBA找到用武之地，但这最终可能需要他在试训中去证明。继续作为篮板手、终结者和身体对抗型防守者来带动球队取胜，将使他一直作为乐透中后段的候选人被关注，尽管他的技术特点可能比其他人更挑球队。
独行侠解雇总经理尼科·哈里森 (Nico Harrison) 可能标志着一个新篇章的开启，达拉斯将围绕库珀·弗拉格 (Cooper Flagg) 重建球队。对于4胜11负的独行侠来说，他们有机会进一步深入乐透区，寻找另一位年轻球星与他搭档。
9. 孟菲斯灰熊
杰登·奎因坦斯 (Jayden Quaintance)，中锋，肯塔基大学
大二
2024-25赛季数据： 场均9.4分，7.9篮板，1.5助攻
奎因坦斯仍在养伤，他正在为前交叉韧带撕裂进行最后阶段的康复。上赛季，年仅17岁的他在亚利桑那州立大学作为大一新生打出的表现让他成为备受关注的新秀，外界希望他能在一月份复出。乐观来看，他有望成为一名垂直空间型球员和空接威胁，同时也能在防守端成为球队的支柱。但他不是一个好的外线射手，作为五号位技术也不算特别出色，这可能会限制他在进攻端的使用方式。NBA球队急切地想看到他重返赛场，以便更好地评估他的即战力和潜力。
灰熊目前预计将在乐透区拥有两个选秀权，手握自己的首轮签，并且很可能还有菲尼克斯的。在交易掉德斯蒙德·贝恩 (Desmond Bane) 后，孟菲斯正在考虑更长远的发展规划，在一个高质量的选秀大年里获得两次机会至关重要。
10. 俄克拉荷马城雷霆 (来自洛杉矶快船)
达梅·萨尔 (Dame Sarr)，得分后卫/小前锋，杜克大学
大一新生
2025-26赛季数据： 四场比赛场均9.8分，3.5篮板，0.5助攻
球探们认为萨尔是杜克大学第二好的新秀，他6英尺8英寸的身材、防守潜力和作为外线连接点不断发展的进攻技术，为他成为一名有价值的NBA球员铺平了道路。他也开始回应关于他投篮能力的质疑，赛季初三分球14投7中，并且在接球投篮时显得十分自信。虽然他不是球队主打的得分点，但他的大部分价值将来自于填补球队的各项空缺。
快船队的慢热开局让卫冕冠军雷霆队有机会在乐透区进行选择，这给了他们又一次为已经人才济济的阵容增添顶级天赋的机会。这是他们拥有的三个首轮选秀权中的第一个。
11. 孟菲斯灰熊 (来自菲尼克斯)
卡里姆·洛佩兹 (Karim Lopez)，小前锋/大前锋，新西兰破坏者（新西兰）
洛佩兹在澳大利亚联赛的第二个赛季表现出色，三分命中率达到40%，进攻端取得进步，并在篮板方面有所贡献。他的履历中也存在一些短板：他很少能站上罚球线，球探们也对他运动能力和防守表示担忧。洛佩兹最终可能更适合被定位为空间型四号位而非侧翼球员。他在6英尺8英寸的身高下所具备的持球、组织和命中空位投篮的能力，将使他继续留在选秀这个顺位区间的讨论中。
灰熊将获得菲尼克斯和奥兰多首轮签中顺位更高者，根据ESPN的BPI预测，魔术的排名高于太阳。
12. 波特兰开拓者
尼奥克利斯·阿夫达拉斯 (Neoklis Avdalas)，得分后卫/小前锋，弗吉尼亚理工大学
大一新生
2025-26赛季数据： 四场比赛场均16.3分，3.5篮板，6助攻
阿夫达拉斯在客场对阵普罗维登斯大学的比赛中狂砍33分，一战成名，引起了NBA的注意。他熟练地利用挡拆，命中五记三分，并展示了他作为一名6英尺8英寸组织型侧翼的潜力。尽管他的速度不是特别快，也不擅长一对一击败防守者——这一点让人们对他的前景产生了一些怀疑——但NBA球队总是在寻找高大的组织者，而阿夫达拉斯已经开始在一个重要的角色中证明这一点。继续命中远投并建立自己的无球价值将是关键。从身材和技术的角度来看，他符合模板，如果能打消那些疑虑，他将有机会在选秀中获得高顺位。
波特兰目前在西部排名中游，如果开拓者进入季后赛且选秀权落在15至30顺位之间，他们的选秀权将送至芝加哥。
13. 芝加哥公牛
布雷伦·马林斯 (Braylon Mullins)，得分后卫，康涅狄格大学
大一新生
马林斯因脚踝受伤仍在休战，但有望在未来几周内复出，NBA球队将急于在大学赛场上对他进行评估。他出色的三分投射能力，无论是跑动中还是运球后的投篮，都给了他一项招牌技能。此外，他是一名强硬的竞争者，拥有对位身材优势，并能在防守端做出贡献。康涅狄格大学在丹·赫尔利 (Dan Hurley) 的执教下，历来擅长发挥射手的作用，球队也需要他发挥影响力。如果一切顺利，他有潜力成为“打一年就走”的球员。
公牛在2026年拥有自己的选秀权，在经历了一个火热的开局后，他们又回到了中游水平——科比·怀特 (Coby White) 和约什·吉迪 (Josh Giddey) 的健康回归将让我们更好地了解芝加哥在选秀方面的走向。
14. 密尔沃基雄鹿
达里厄斯·阿卡夫二世 (Darius Acuff Jr.)，控卫，阿肯色大学
大一新生
2025-26赛季数据： 四场比赛场均19.8分，3.3篮板，4.8助攻
阿卡夫二世在阿肯色大学的开局不错，四场比赛下来打出了高效的数据，并且远投表现出色。他的爆发力和组织能力得到了展示，他的力量和节奏有助于弥补他身材上的不足。需要后卫的球队将在未来几周密切关注他，感恩节对阵杜克大学的比赛以及与路易斯维尔大学的米克尔·布朗二世的直接对话将是真正的考验。
雄鹿将获得自己和新奥尔良选秀权中顺位较差者，并且目前在后场有明显的长期补强需求——尽管还为时尚早，但他们的选秀权可能成为这个顺位区间任何一位后卫的有趣落脚点。
15. 波士顿凯尔特人
托马斯·豪 (Thomas Haugh)，小前锋/大前锋，佛罗里达大学
大三
2025-26赛季数据： 四场比赛场均19分，8.3篮板，3助攻
NBA圈内许多人预计豪本赛季会迎来爆发——他毫不拖延地证明了自己是大学篮球界最优秀的球员之一。尽管他在NBA新秀赛季前将年满23岁，但豪看起来是一个显而易见的即插即用型球员，他将通过自己的传球、防守拼劲和多功能性帮助任何一支球队。有季后赛抱负的球队将从这个选秀顺位开始密切关注他。
在一些人猜测他们可能会在排名上大幅下滑的情况下，凯尔特人在杰森·塔图姆 (Jayson Tatum) 缺阵期间表现得很有活力。用这个选秀权增加一名具备NBA即战力的球员应该是他们考虑的策略之一。
16. 多伦多猛龙
拉巴伦·菲隆二世 (Labaron Philon Jr.)，控卫，阿拉巴马大学
大二
2025-26赛季数据： 三场比赛场均19.3分，3.3篮板，6助攻
菲隆以良好的状态开启了新赛季，尤其是在阿拉巴马大学客场战胜圣约翰大学的比赛中得到25分，展现了作为得分手能力的提升。他本赛季正扮演着核心组织者的角色，并且有很好的机会在这个顺位区间的其他控卫中脱颖而出。在阿拉巴马大学应对艰难的非联盟赛程时，证明自己能高效地扛起重任将对他有所帮助。
猛龙拥有自己的选秀权，但他们正努力自2022年以来首次重返季后赛，这可能使他们的选秀顺位落在这个区间。
17. 夏洛特黄蜂 (来自奥兰多)
通德·耶索福 (Tounde Yessoufou)，得分后卫/小前锋，贝勒大学
大一新生
2025-26赛季数据： 三场比赛场均16.3分，5篮板，1.7助攻
耶索福拥有强壮的6英尺5英寸、210磅的体格和高能量的马达，具备有趣的潜力，但随着球探们评估他的进攻能力，他也存在一些发展风险。他能强力冲击篮下并站上罚球线，但在三分投射上表现挣扎（赛季初15投3中），并且在组织和传球感觉方面面临质疑。如果他的投篮有所改善，耶索福至少可以成为一个高价值的终结者和破坏性防守者。他本赛季的效率表现将是决定他最终顺位高低的最大因素。
夏洛特将获得华盛顿（如果顺位在1-8）、菲尼克斯、奥兰多和孟菲斯选秀权中顺位最差的一个，在这种情况下是魔术的。
18. 金州勇士
亚克塞尔·伦德博格 (Yaxel Lendeborg)，大前锋/中锋，密歇根大学
大四
2025-26赛季数据： 三场比赛场均11.7分，6.3篮板，3助攻
伦德博格的年龄（23岁）削弱了他被看好的潜力，但他的全能技术和身体天赋应该足以让他在首轮被选中，那些寻求即插即用型前场帮助的球队会考虑他。他的外线投射依然不稳定，但他作为一名6英尺9英寸、240磅的大个子前锋，其持球和传球能力为他增添了额外的外线功能性。
密歇根大学一直在处理同时让三名大个子上场的棘手问题，希望伦德博格融合阵容的能力能让他们把最好的球员都留在场上。他作为得分手并不总是很有侵略性，但在NBA的辅助角色中他应该能发挥作用，并对像金州勇士这样处于“赢在当下”模式的球队具有吸引力。
19. 迈阿密热火
金斯顿·弗莱明斯 (Kingston Flemings)，控卫，休斯顿大学
大一新生
2025-26赛季数据： 四场比赛场均17.3分，3.5篮板，5.3助攻
尽管弗莱明斯进入大学时的声望不如他的一些同学，但他却是开赛以来表现最出色的大一新生之一，为排名第一的休斯顿大学扮演了关键角色，并展示了NBA级别的速度、视野和爆发力。他在周日对阵奥本大学强硬防守的比赛中砍下22分，带领美洲狮队取胜，完美通过了他的首次重大考验。在目前这个小样本中，他的效率极高，四场比赛的两分球命中率高达79%，尽管身材瘦削，但他凭借冲击篮下的节奏给防守端带来了巨大压力。随着赛季的进行，他与米洛斯·乌赞 (Milos Uzan) 搭档后场，应该会继续崭露头角。
20. 明尼苏达森林狼
贝内特·斯特茨 (Bennett Stirtz)，控卫，爱荷华大学
大四
2025-26赛季数据： 三场比赛场均21.3分，3篮板，5.3助攻
在爱荷华大学应对轻松的早期赛程时，斯特茨开局良好并不令人意外，他作为一名精通挡拆战术、经验丰富的老将，仍然是大学篮球界的顶尖球员之一。他已经证明了自己是一名能够掌控比赛节奏、在承担大量使用率的同时做出正确决策的后卫。在面对更强的对手时，他将受到更严格的审视，因为球探们需要评估他长远的身体和防守前景。作为一名22岁的大四球员，球队会仔细考量他相对于本届其他后卫的发展潜力，但对于需要即时帮助的球队来说，他将具有一定的即插即用吸引力。
21. 圣安东尼奥马刺
汉内斯·施泰因巴赫 (Hannes Steinbach)，大前锋/中锋，华盛顿大学
大一新生
2025-26赛季数据： 四场比赛场均14.3分，12.8篮板，2.5助攻
作为大学篮球界早期最高效的大个子之一，施泰因巴赫在篮板方面表现出色，是华盛顿大学的稳定力量。他无疑具备长期NBA球员的潜质，对自己在前场的角色有很好的理解，拥有同体型球员中上乘的移动能力，并且能够作为短挡拆后的传球手。他正开始从众多预计在乐透区外的大个子中脱颖而出，并且凭借其出色的数据表现还有上升空间。
马刺在本届选秀中拥有与亚特兰大互换首轮签的权利，但在这种情况下，他们将保留自己的选秀权。
22. 底特律活塞
以赛亚·埃文斯 (Isaiah Evans)，得分后卫，杜克大学
大二
2025-26赛季数据： 四场比赛场均13分，3.3篮板，1.8助攻
埃文斯赛季初表现起伏不定，但他看起来具备成为一名高水平外线射手的潜质，并有望在大二赛季实现飞跃。杜克大学需要他贡献大量得分，而他接球即投和拉开空间的能力，理论上使他与卡梅隆·布泽尔非常契合。NBA球队仍然对他的防守影响力、投篮选择和冲击篮下的能力存有疑问，但埃文斯的投射能力很有可能帮助他赢得一个角色。
23. 俄克拉荷马城雷霆 (来自费城)
达什·丹尼尔斯 (Dash Daniels)，控卫/分卫，墨尔本联队（澳大利亚）
丹尼尔斯继续为11胜2负的墨尔本联队扮演着有用的辅助角色，主要提供稳固的防守。他能在17岁的年纪就争取到上场时间令人印象深刻，但他在进攻端也未能得到充分施展，以至于能够显著提升自己的地位。作为我们百大新秀榜上最年轻的球员，丹尼尔斯不一定非要留在2026年选秀——根据他收到的反馈，推迟一年进入实力相对较弱的2027届选秀最终可能对他更有利。雷霆将从费城获得这个选秀权，除非它最终落在前四顺位。
24. 克利夫兰骑士 (来自亚特兰大)
阿迪·马拉 (Aday Mara)，中锋，密歇根大学
大二
2025-26赛季数据： 三场比赛场均12分，10.3篮板，3助攻
从UCLA转学到密歇根后，马拉处在一个更理想的环境中，并展现出了未来NBA球员的风范，他巨大的身材和出色的传球视野使他成为一个独特的进攻威胁。虽然他速度不快，垂直爆发力也不强，但他的移动能力足以执行沉退防守，并且至少能作为篮下的威慑力量增加一些防守价值。未来他很可能会面对各种防守策略和包夹，但马拉比典型的7英尺球员能做的要多得多，并提醒了各支球队是什么让他在职业生涯早期就备受关注。
骑士有权用自己的首轮签与圣安东尼奥和亚特兰大首轮签中顺位较差者进行互换。
25. 洛杉矶湖人
祖比·埃吉奥福 (Zuby Ejiofor)，大前锋/中锋，圣约翰大学
大四
2025-26赛季数据： 三场比赛场均18.3分，7篮板，3.3助攻
埃吉奥福以其全力以赴的拼劲和不断进步的技术闪光点给人留下了深刻印象，他的传球能力使他比大多数同类型的矮个（6英尺9英寸）能量型大个子更具活力。他还在对阵阿拉巴马大学的爆发性比赛中命中了两个三分球，继续展现一定的远投能力将有助于巩固他的首轮行情。他似乎有望迎来一个全美级别的赛季，如果情况如此发展，那些寻求即时前场帮助的季后赛球队可能会在首轮末考虑他。
26. 纽约尼克斯
迈尔斯·伯德 (Miles Byrd)，得分后卫/小前锋，圣迭戈州立大学
大三
2025-26赛季数据： 两场比赛场均8.5分，4.5篮板，4.5助攻
伯德是本届新秀中最出色的外线防守者之一，对于寻求深度的赢球球队来说，他应该具有角色球员的吸引力。圣迭戈州立大学迄今只打了两场比赛，但下周他们将在拉斯维加斯面对强劲的对手，这将为伯德提供一个有用的试金石。球探们希望看到他在进攻端取得进步，尤其是在投射方面，同时他应该也有机会在组织进攻方面成长。
27. 亚特兰大老鹰 (来自克利夫兰)
马利克·托马斯 (Meleek Thomas)，控卫/分卫，阿肯色大学
大一新生
2025-26赛季数据： 四场比赛场均17.8分，6.5篮板，4.8助攻
托马斯在决策和传球方面表现出了一些成长，但随着他适应大学篮球，效率方面也遇到了困难。他的坚韧、对位身材优势、高产出和得分本能，在他继续努力证明自己不仅仅是一个纯粹得分手时，为他带来了有趣的潜力。阿肯色大学严重依赖他来创造进攻，但他需要变得更加稳定，并改善投篮选择，以巩固他“打一年就走”的前景。
老鹰将获得他们自己/圣安东尼奥的首轮签和骑士首轮签中顺位较差者。
28. 俄克拉荷马城雷霆 (来自休斯顿)
亚历克斯·康登 (Alex Condon)，中锋，佛罗里达大学
大三
2025-26赛季数据： 四场比赛场均16.5分，7.8篮板，2.8助攻
尽管康登因其进攻产量、移动能力、传球闪光点和防守心态等方面的担忧而在球探中存在分歧，但他作为NBA级别的潜在粘合剂球员，拥有可塑的工具。在佛罗里达大学2025年夺冠征程中扮演重要角色后，他这次将受到更长远的审视。他接触篮球较晚，如果能练出可靠的跳投并进一步打磨技术，这里还有一些未开发的潜力。康登作为得分手，开赛以来表现得更加高效，目前正朝着正确的方向发展。
雷霆将拥有他们自己、休斯顿（如果顺位在5-30）和快船的首轮签中顺位最靠前的两个。
29. 丹佛掘金
约瑟夫·塔格勒 (Joseph Tugler)，大前锋/中锋，休斯顿大学
大三
2025-26赛季数据： 四场比赛场均8.5分，5篮板，1.5助攻
塔格勒是一位拥有精英级别臂展的防守专家，他能弥补防守漏洞，并在内线赢得额外的球权，这种能力应该能转化为一定程度的NBA实用价值。但同时他也是一名进攻能力有限的球员，这使得他的适配性更具球队特异性，也让他在球探中颇具争议。他最适合作为即插即用的专家型球员，加入一支有明确使用计划的季后赛球队。想象一下他在丹佛作为替补防守者的场景，着实令人期待。
30. 华盛顿奇才 (来自俄克拉荷马城)
德韦恩·阿里斯托德 (Dwayne Aristode)，小前锋，亚利桑那大学
大一新生
2025-26赛季数据： 四场比赛场均6.3分，1.5篮板，1助攻
阿里斯托德凭借其出色的身材（6英尺8英寸，220磅）和3D潜力，在赛季开始前就引起了NBA球队的浓厚兴趣。考虑到他目前的处境，很难对他有过高评价，因为他的上场时间起伏不定，在亚利桑那对阵佛罗里达和UCLA等重要比赛中，出场时间不到10分钟，但他在对阵北亚利桑那大学的比赛中命中了六记三分，展示了他的投射能力。在因脚伤错过高中最后一年后，阿里斯托德显然仍在寻找状态，但他需要争取到更稳定的上场时间，才能为自己“打一年就走”争取机会。如果他能像上赛季的卡特·布莱恩特 (Carter Bryant) 那样赢得一个角色，他就有可能作为一名发展型球员进入选秀。
奇才将持有快船、火箭和雷霆首轮签中顺位最低者。
第二轮选秀
- 布鲁克林篮网：塞尔吉奥·德拉雷亚 (Sergio de Larrea)，控卫/分卫，瓦伦西亚（西班牙）
- 纽约尼克斯 (来自华盛顿)：帕特里克·农巴 (Patrick Ngongba)，中锋，杜克大学，大二
- 圣安东尼奥马刺 (来自犹他)：尼古拉斯·哈梅尼亚 (Nikolas Khamenia)，小前锋/大前锋，杜克大学，大一新生
- 孟菲斯灰熊 (来自印第安纳)：卡梅伦·卡尔 (Cameron Carr)，得分后卫/小前锋，贝勒大学，大二
- 波士顿凯尔特人 (来自新奥尔良)：布雷登·史密斯 (Braden Smith)，控卫，普渡大学，大四
- 萨克拉门托国王：JT·托平 (JT Toppin)，大前锋/中锋，德州理工大学，大四
- 萨克拉门托国王 (来自夏洛特)：卡特·诺克斯 (Karter Knox)，得分后卫/小前锋，阿肯色大学，大二
- 俄克拉荷马城雷霆 (来自达拉斯)：亚历克斯·卡拉班 (Alex Karaban)，小前锋/大前锋，康涅狄格大学，大四
- 洛杉矶快船 (来自孟菲斯)：塔哈德·佩蒂福德 (Tahaad Pettiford)，控卫，奥本大学，大二
- 布鲁克林篮网 (来自洛杉矶快船)：亨利·维萨尔 (Henri Veesaar)，中锋，北卡罗来纳大学，大三
- 华盛顿奇才 (来自菲尼克斯)：马贡·格瓦斯 (Magoon Gwath)，中锋，圣迭戈州立大学，大二
- 圣安东尼奥马刺 (来自波特兰)：保罗·麦克尼尔二世 (Paul McNeil Jr.)，得分后卫，北卡州立大学，大二
- 休斯顿火箭 (来自芝加哥)：托米斯拉夫·伊维西奇 (Tomislav Ivisic)，中锋，伊利诺伊大学，大三
- 波士顿凯尔特人 (来自密尔沃基)：达里恩·威廉姆斯 (Darrion Williams)，小前锋，北卡州立大学，大四
4t. 亚特兰大老鹰 (来自波士顿)：布雷登·伯里斯 (Brayden Burries)，得分后卫，亚利桑那大学，大一新生 - 多伦多猛龙：韦斯利·耶茨三世 (Wesley Yates III)，得分后卫，华盛顿大学，大二
- 奥兰多魔术：莫蒂埃尤斯·克里瓦斯 (Motiejus Krivas)，中锋，亚利桑那大学，大三
- 夏洛特黄蜂 (来自金州)：米洛斯·乌赞 (Milos Uzan)，控卫，休斯顿大学，大四
- 圣安东尼奥马刺 (来自迈阿密)：安德烈·斯托贾科维奇 (Andrej Stojakovic)，得分后卫/小前锋，伊利诺伊大学，大三
- 华盛顿奇才 (来自明尼苏达)：穆罕默德·西拉 (Mouhamed Sylla)，中锋，佐治亚理工学院，大一新生
- 明尼苏达森林狼 (来自圣安东尼奥)：亚当·阿塔姆纳 (Adam Atamna)，得分后卫，ASVEL（法国）
- 纽约尼克斯 (来自底特律)：戴林·斯温 (Dailyn Swain)，得分后卫/小前锋，德克萨斯大学，大三
- 菲尼克斯太阳 (来自费城)：莫雷兹·约翰逊二世 (Morez Johnson Jr.)，大前锋/中锋，密歇根大学，大二
- 布鲁克林篮网 (来自亚特兰大)：穆斯塔法·蒂亚姆 (Moustapha Thiam)，中锋，辛辛那提大学，大二
- 多伦多猛龙 (来自洛杉矶)：迈克尔·鲁日奇 (Michael Ruzic)，大前锋/中锋，尤文图特（西班牙）
- 纽约尼克斯：布吉·弗兰德 (Boogie Fland)，控卫，佛罗里达大学，大二
- 克利夫兰骑士：里奇·桑德斯 (Richie Saunders)，得分后卫/小前锋，杨百翰大学，大四
- 休斯顿火箭：诺兰·温特 (Nolan Winter)，大前锋/中锋，威斯康星大学，大三
- 明尼苏达森林狼 (来自丹佛)：索洛·鲍尔 (Solo Ball)，得分后卫，康涅狄格大学，大三
- 华盛顿奇才 (来自俄克拉荷马城)：塔克·德弗里斯 (Tucker DeVries)，得分后卫/小前锋，印第安纳大学，大四
由生成式人工智能翻译，译文内容可能不准确或不完整，以原文为准。
点击查看原文：2026 NBA mock draft: Projecting all 30 first-round picks
2026 NBA mock draft: Projecting all 30 first-round picks
We’re a few weeks into college basketball season, and excitement around the 2026 draft has continued to build, with a host of star freshmen headlining the class and taking quickly to the next level. Now is a good time to roll out our first mock draft of the season.
NBA executives have benefitted from a convenient November schedule that has included a number of meaningful prospect matchups, including the Champions Classic (Nov. 18) and next week’s Players Era championship in Las Vegas, which includes 18 teams and more prospect-laden matchups. This continues to be viewed as one of the stronger drafts in recent memory, with high-level players at the top of the board, as well as developing depth in the first round.
With the understanding that much of this will change all the way until June, the mock serves to project what things would look like if NBA teams drafted today. These projections are not a ranking of the top prospects – for that, consult ESPN’s Top 100. They are informed by ongoing conversations with NBA executives and scouts, as well as my own evaluation process from time spent on the road at games and watching film.
The draft order was formulated using ESPN’s BPI rankings as of Nov. 14.
More NBA draft coverage:
10 college teams with most NBA prospects
Top 100 rankings of the 2026 prospects | More
Round 1 picks
1. Brooklyn Nets
Darryn Peterson, PG/SG, Kansas
Freshman
2025-26 stats: 21.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, 3.0 assists in two games
Peterson missed Kansas’s past couple of games because of a hamstring issue and was described by head coach Bill Self as out for the “immediate future,” which puts his status in doubt for a marquee matchup Tuesday against Cameron Boozer and Duke. While not officially ruled out as of Tuesday morning, that game stood as a major opportunity to show why he has been centered by NBA executives in the No. 1 pick discussion. Peterson’s dynamic three-level scoring, impressive physical tools, defensive tenacity and competitive intangibles place him among the most complete and impactful freshman guards in recent memory. It’s worth noting that NBA evaluators have been underwhelmed by the Jayhawks’ supporting cast thus far, and Kansas will seemingly go as far as Peterson can carry it. There’s room for debate around the No. 1 spot as the season unfolds, but Peterson would likely be the choice if the draft took place today. The prospect of an extended absence, however, would leave the door open for Dybantsa and Boozer to gain ground.
The Nets badly need a player to anchor their team moving forward; they’ve taken five first-round swings in the 2025 draft and are still figuring out how everyone fits long term. Peterson would address their lack of star power and then some.
2. Washington Wizards
AJ Dybantsa, SF, BYU
Freshman
2025-26 stats: 20.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, 2.0 assists in four games
Dybantsa took center stage Saturday in Boston, with a large NBA contingent in attendance for BYU-UConn. He showed his tantalizing scoring upside in the second half, after struggling to impact the first, pointing to some of the concerns around his consistency and tendencies, but also serving as a reminder of his considerable talent. Overall, he has been efficient. He draws fouls frequently and has made an effort to play team basketball, but he is still learning to read the flow of the game and when to be aggressive. Dybantsa’s impressive physicality gives him top-notch upside as a wing scorer who should also add value defensively, but he will need to show improvement to maximize his chances of going No. 1.
The Wizards are among several teams with a lot riding on the 2026 lottery – they’ve gotten positive returns from 2024 draftees Alex Sarr and Kyshawn George but remain in search of a young star they can build their offense around. Dybantsa would bring a downhill element that the roster lacks.
3. Utah Jazz
Cameron Boozer, PF/C, Duke
Freshman
2025-26 stats: 22.5 points, 10.3 rebounds, 4.3 assists in four games
While a quiet debut against Texas underscored some of scouts’ concerns around Boozer’s athleticism, he’ll have a huge platform Tuesday against Kansas, with a majority of the NBA’s decision-makers expected to attend. He’s a polished all-around player who contributes to winning beyond purely scoring, which should help mitigate the fact that he’s not as vertically explosive. His outstanding track record will earn him some benefit of the doubt as he settles in to college, and his prolific production will keep him in the conversation with Peterson and Dybantsa atop the draft.
Utah is off to a better start than expected but still falls in the bottom three in ESPN’s BPI win projections and recently lost Walker Kessler for the season because of injury. If the Jazz’s pick falls outside the top eight, it would be conveyed to Oklahoma City, creating an additional incentive for the Jazz to stay bad for another season. Boozer would fit nicely as an offensive centerpiece alongside Ace Bailey.
4. Indiana Pacers
Nate Ament, SF/PF, Tennessee
Freshman
2025-26 stats: 20 points, 8.7 rebounds, 3.7 assists in four games
Ament has been productive against lower-level opponents to begin the season and will be under the microscope next week in Las Vegas, with all 30 NBA teams expected to send decision-makers to the prospect-laden Players Era Championship. Ament is still learning to leverage his 6-foot-10, 207-pound frame as a scorer, but it has been encouraging to see him attack downhill and draw fouls. Scouts will be eager to evaluate him against better competition, but his frame and skill set portend excellent upside as he gains experience.
The Pacers’ devastating run of bad injury luck spilled into the regular season – Andrew Nembhard, Bennedict Mathurin and Aaron Nesmith have been among the notable players injured. Indiana’s decision to reacquire its own 2026 first-round pick back in the spring now looks particularly shrewd, giving the franchise a security blanket and a pathway into a talented draft lottery. After a 1-13 start, it might make sense for the Pacers to lean in to the losing, with eyes on bouncing back next season with a healthy Tyrese Haliburton.
5. Atlanta Hawks (via New Orleans)
Caleb Wilson, PF/C, North Carolina
Freshman
2025-26 stats: 20 points, 9.5 rebounds, 3 assists in four games
Wilson looks to have made a tangible jump since arriving in college, impressing NBA teams with a newfound competitive gear that’s translating into big-time production. His energy and impact in the paint defensively and on the glass have made a huge difference, coupled with a strong feel and passing ability. The main challenge moving forward will be projecting his jump shot, as he hasn’t taken many 3s and has been inconsistent from the foul line (68.8%). It’s unlikely he can be an offensive focal point in the NBA without major growth in that area, but some scouts believe there’s an opportunity for Wilson to vault into the upper echelon of this class if he can sustain this level of play.
Atlanta appears set to benefit from its decision to trade out of the 2025 draft lottery to obtain this pick from New Orleans, as the 2-12 Pelicans continue to backslide and seem likely to convey significant odds. This selection will be a luxury for the Hawks, no matter what.
6. Sacramento Kings
Mikel Brown Jr., PG, Louisville
Freshman
2025-26 stats: 19.3 points, 2.5 rebounds, 6.8 assists in four games
A 29-point explosion in a rivalry game against Kentucky signaled Brown’s proper arrival on the college stage and underscored the excitement surrounding his NBA potential and trajectory. His ability to shoot from deep (36% from 3) off the dribble and catch, as well as make plays for teammates, gives him excellent upside, plus continuing to get downhill and to the foul line with more aggression will help his case. It’s a reasonable bet right now that he’ll be the first guard off the board after Darryn Peterson, and where Brown ultimately falls among the top picks might depend on where the point-guard-needy teams end up selecting.
This has been a challenging start to the season, to say the least, for the 3-11 Kings, who control their own pick and might need to consider pivoting from an aging core group on expensive contracts. The number of high-level talents in this lottery makes that a more palatable proposition, and the Kings’ need for a younger playmaker should make Brown a clear consideration.
7. Charlotte Hornets
Chris Cenac Jr., PF/C, Houston
Freshman
2025-26 stats: 10.8 points, 9 rebounds, 0.5 assists in four games
Cenac has been steady to start the college season and appears to have bought in to his role at Houston, making a difference on the glass and flashing comfort with his jumper. With his minutes looking solid, there’s plenty of room for him to build on that, particularly on the offensive end, where he faces an adjustment playing on the inside against older and stronger college bigs. He’s still a ways from reaching his ceiling, but he has a good toolbox for a modern, mobile, rim-protecting stretch 5, an archetype that’s not prevalent in this class.
The Hornets have gotten strong early returns from their rookies, including Kon Knueppel and Ryan Kalkbrenner, but it remains to be seen whether they’re ready to make a true push for a play-in spot. Cenac’s length and mobility could be additive to their front court long term.
8. Dallas Mavericks
Koa Peat, PF/C, Arizona
Freshman
2025-26 stats: 16.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.8 assists in four games
Peat has left a strong impression with his early play and firmed up a place in the lottery discussion, with his physicality and interior impact proving important for Arizona. His lack of shooting range and the fact that he’s undersized (6-8) for a 4 are viewed as limiting factors, but it’s easy to appreciate his well-defined identity as a player. If Peat can develop a 3-point shot, it’s hard not to see him finding utility in the NBA, but that might ultimately be something he’ll have to show in workouts. Continuing to drive winning as a rebounder, play finisher and physical defender should keep him front of mind as a mid-to-late lottery candidate, although his skill set might be more team-specific than others.
The Mavericks’ dismissal of general manager Nico Harrison might signal a turning of the page, as Dallas reorients the franchise around Cooper Flagg. There’s a window for the 4-11 Mavs to pivot further into the lottery in search of another young star to pair with him.
9. Memphis Grizzlies
Jayden Quaintance, C, Kentucky
Sophomore
2024-25 stats: 9.4 points, 7.9 rebounds, 1.5 assists
Quaintance remains sidelined as he completes the final stages of rehab for a torn ACL. His production as a 17-year-old freshman at Arizona State last season made him a prospect of serious interest, and the hope is he’ll be back by January. Optimistically, he projects as a vertical spacer and lob threat who can also anchor a team defensively, but he’s not a good outside shooter nor super skilled for a 5-man, likely creating some limitations on how he might be used on offense. NBA teams are eager to see him retake the floor to get a better feel for his readiness and upside.
The Grizzlies are currently slated to pick twice in the lottery, holding their own first-round pick and likely Phoenix’s as well. As Memphis considers a longer time horizon after trading Desmond Bane, landing a couple of swings in a quality draft will be critical.
10. Oklahoma City Thunder (via LAC)
Dame Sarr, SG/SF, Duke
Freshman
2025-26 stats: 9.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, 0.5 assists in four games
Scouts regard Sarr as Duke’s second-best prospect, with his 6-8 frame, defensive upside and developing offensive game as a perimeter connector giving him a path to becoming a valuable NBA player. He’s also starting to answer questions about his shooting, having made 7 of 14 from 3 to begin the season and looking comfortable catching and shooting. While he’s not heavily featured as a scorer, much of his value will come from filling in the gaps.
A slow start for the Clippers has positioned the defending champion Thunder to potentially select in the lottery, giving them another opportunity to add top talent to an already loaded roster. This is the first of three first-round selections they hold.
11. Memphis Grizzlies (via Phoenix)
Karim Lopez, SF/PF, New Zealand Breakers (New Zealand)
Lopez has been productive in his second season in Australia, making 40% of his 3s, showing progress offensively and chipping in as a rebounder. There are some holes in his profile: He hasn’t gotten to the free throw line much, and scouts have expressed concern about his athleticism and defense. Lopez may ultimately project best as a stretch-four rather than a wing. His ability to handle, be a playmaker and knock down open shots at 6-8 will keep him in conversations in this part of the draft.
The Grizzlies will have the better of Phoenix’s and Orlando’s first-round picks, with the Magic ahead of the Suns based on ESPN’s BPI projections.
12. Portland Trail Blazers
Neoklis Avdalas, SG/SF, Virginia Tech
Freshman
2025-26 stats: 16.3 points, 3.5 rebounds, 6 assists in four games
Avdalas’ 33-point breakout on the road against Providence put the NBA on notice, as he deftly navigated ball screens, knocked down five 3s and showcased his upside as a 6-8 playmaking wing. While he’s not especially fast or adept at beating defenders one-on-one – a factor that creates some skepticism in his projection – NBA teams are always in search of big playmakers, and Avdalas has begun to demonstrate that in an outsized role. Continuing to make shots from long range and establish his value without the ball will be key. He fits the blueprint from a size and skill perspective, and will have a chance to go high in the draft if he can assuage those concerns.
Portland sits in the middle of the pack in the West and will convey its selection to Chicago if the Blazers make the playoffs and the pick falls between 15 and 30.
13. Chicago Bulls
Braylon Mullins, SG, UConn
Freshman
Mullins remains out with an ankle injury but is on track to return in the coming weeks, and NBA teams will be eager to assess him in a college setting. His excellent 3-point shooting, both off movement and off the bounce, gives him a calling-card skill, plus he’s a tough competitor with positional size who can chip in defensively. UConn has historically done well featuring its shooters under Dan Hurley and will need him to make an impact, positioning him for a potential one-and-done season if things go smoothly.
The Bulls own their pick in 2026 and returned to the middle of the pack after a hot start to the season – the healthy return of Coby White and Josh Giddey will offer a better sense of which direction Chicago is headed with respect to the draft.
14. Milwaukee Bucks
Darius Acuff Jr., PG, Arkansas
Freshman
2025-26 stats: 19.8 points, 3.3 rebounds, 4.8 assists in four games
Acuff is off to a solid start at Arkansas, putting up efficient numbers and shooting it well from long range through four games. His burst and knack for making plays have been on display, and his strength and pace help compensate for his smaller size. Guard-needy teams will be looking closely at him in the coming weeks, with a Thanksgiving matchup against Duke and a head-to-head game against Mikel Brown Jr. and Louisville offering real tests.
The Bucks will receive the worse of their own pick and New Orleans’ and have a glaring need for long-term backcourt help at the moment – while it’s early, their pick could be an interesting landing spot for any of the guards in this range.
15. Boston Celtics
Thomas Haugh, SF/PF, Florida
Junior
2025-26 stats: 19 points, 8.3 rebounds, 3 assists in four games
Many around the NBA anticipated Haugh would break out this season – he has wasted no time establishing himself as one of the best players in college basketball. Although he’ll turn 23 before his rookie season in the NBA, Haugh looks like an obvious plug-and-play option who will help any team with his ball movement, defensive effort and versatility. Teams with playoff aspirations will be looking hard at him starting in this part of the draft.
Amid some speculation that they could take a nosedive in the standings, the Celtics have been frisky in the absence of Jayson Tatum. Adding an NBA-ready player with this pick should be one approach they consider.
16. Toronto Raptors
Labaron Philon Jr., PG, Alabama
Sophomore
2025-26 stats: 19.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, 6 assists in three games
Philon has opened the season in good form, notably scoring 25 points in Alabama’s road win over St. John’s and flashing improved ability as a shotmaker. He’s stepping into a focal playmaking role this season and has a nice opportunity to separate himself from the other point guards in this part of the draft. Showing he can shoulder the load efficiently as Alabama navigates a tough nonconference schedule will help.
The Raptors control their own pick, but are working to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2022, likely slating them to select somewhere in this range.
17. Charlotte Hornets (via Orlando)
Tounde Yessoufou, SG/SF, Baylor
Freshman
2025-26 stats: 16.3 points, 5 rebounds, 1.7 assists in three games
With a powerful 6-5, 210-pound frame and high-performing motor, Yessoufou has interesting upside, as well as some developmental risk as scouts work to project his offense. He can power downhill and to the foul line, but has struggled shooting from 3 (3-for-15 to start the season) and faces questions about his playmaking and feel for moving the ball. If his shooting improves, Yessoufou could be a high-value play-finisher and disruptive defender at the very least. How his efficiency bears out over the course of the season will be the biggest factor in how high he’s selected.
Charlotte will receive the least favorable of Washington’s (if 1-8), Phoenix’s, Orlando’s and Memphis’ picks, which in this case is the Magic’s.
18. Golden State Warriors
Yaxel Lendeborg, PF/C, Michigan
Senior
2025-26 stats: 11.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3 assists in three games
Lendeborg’s age (23) puts a damper on his perceived upside, but his all-around game and physical tools should be good enough to land him in the first round, where teams looking for plug-and-play frontcourt help will consider him. He remains a streaky outside shooter, but his ability to handle and pass gives him extra perimeter functionality for a bigger forward at 6-9, 240.
Michigan has been dealing with the tricky task of playing three bigs together for stretches, hoping Lendeborg’s ability to blend lineups will enable them to get their best players on the floor together. He’s not always aggressive as a scorer, but he should have utility in a complementary NBA context and be appealing to teams like Golden State that are in win-now mode.
19. Miami Heat
Kingston Flemings, PG, Houston
Freshman
2025-26 stats: 17.3 points, 3.5 rebounds, 5.3 assists in four games
Although he entered college with less fanfare than some of his classmates, Flemings has been one of the best freshmen out of the gate, playing a key role for No. 1-ranked Houston and showcasing NBA-caliber speed, vision and explosiveness. He aced his first major test, spurring the Cougars to a win against a tough Auburn defense on Sunday with 22 points. He has been exceptionally efficient in this small sample, making 79% of two-point attempts through four games, and puts a lot of pressure on defenses with his pace downhill despite being slender. He should continue to emerge as the season goes on while sharing a backcourt with Milos Uzan.
20. Minnesota Timberwolves
Bennett Stirtz, PG, Iowa
Senior
2025-26 stats: 21.3 points, 3 rebounds, 5.3 assists in three games
It’s no surprise that Stirtz is off to a good start as Iowa navigates a soft early schedule, as an expert ball-screen navigator and older prospect who remains one of the top players in college basketball. He has proved himself as a guard who can dictate game flow and make good decisions while shouldering major usage. He’ll be more closely scrutinized against better competition, as scouts work to project him physically and defensively in the long term. As a 22-year-old senior, teams will scrutinize his developmental upside relative to the other guards in this class, but there will be some plug-and-play appeal for teams needing more immediate help.
21. San Antonio Spurs
Hannes Steinbach, PF/C, Washington
Freshman
2025-26 stats: 14.3 points, 12.8 rebounds, 2.5 assists in four games
Among the most productive bigs in college basketball early on, Steinbach has been excellent on the glass and a stabilizing force for Washington. He certainly looks the part as a long-term NBA player, with a good understanding of his role up front, above-average mobility for his size, and capability as a passer playing out of short rolls. He is starting to separate himself from many of the other bigs projected outside the lottery and has room to rise based on his sheer production.
The Spurs hold the right to swap their own first with Atlanta’s in this draft, but in this scenario, they hold onto their own.
22. Detroit Pistons
Isaiah Evans, SG, Duke
Sophomore
2025-26 stats: 13 points, 3.3 rebounds, 1.8 assists in four games
Evans has been streaky to start the season, but he looks the part as a high-level perimeter shooter who should be poised for a sophomore leap. Duke will need him to score a lot, and his ability to knock down shots off movement and space the floor makes him a strong fit with Cameron Boozer, in theory. NBA teams still have questions about his defensive impact, shot selection and ability to get downhill, but there’s a realistic chance Evans’ shooting helps him carve out a role.
23. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Philadelphia)
Dash Daniels, PG/SG, Melbourne United (Australia)
Daniels continues to play a useful supporting role for 11-2 Melbourne United, primarily offering sturdy defensive minutes. The fact that he has carved out minutes at 17 years old is impressive, but he’s also not getting to stretch himself offensively in a way that would significantly bolster his standing yet. As the youngest prospect on our Top 100, Daniels won’t necessarily have to stay in the 2026 draft – he could ultimately benefit from delaying and entering in a thinner 2027 class, depending on the feedback he gets. The Thunder will receive this pick from Philadelphia, unless it lands in the top four.
24. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Atlanta)
Aday Mara, C, Michigan
Sophomore
2025-26 stats: 12 points, 10.3 rebounds, 3 assists in three games
Mara landed in a more optimal situation after transferring from UCLA to Michigan and has looked the part as a future NBA player, with his sheer size and terrific passing vision making him a unique offensive threat. While he’s not fast or vertically explosive, he’s sufficiently mobile to play in drop coverage and should at least add some defensive value as a deterrent around the basket. He’s likely to see all types of coverages and double-teams moving forward, but Mara brings a lot more to the table than your typical 7-footer and has reminded teams what made him interesting earlier in his career.
The Cavs hold the ability to swap their first with the worse of San Antonio’s and Atlanta’s firsts.
25. Los Angeles Lakers
Zuby Ejiofor, PF/C, St. John’s
Senior
2025-26 stats: 18.3 points, 7 rebounds, 3.3 assists in three games
Ejiofor has impressed with his all-out effort and flashes of improving skill, with his passing ability making him more dynamic than most undersized (6-9) energy bigs in this mold. He also hit a pair of 3s in a breakout game against Alabama, and continuing to display some touch from range would be helpful in solidifying a first-round case. He appears in for an All-America type of campaign, and if things go that direction, playoff teams searching for immediate frontcourt help may consider him at the end of the first round.
26. New York Knicks
Miles Byrd, SG/SF, San Diego State
Junior
2025-26 stats: 8.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, 4.5 assists in two games
Byrd is one of the more apt perimeter defenders in the class and should have role-player appeal to winning teams in search of depth. San Diego State has played only two games thus far, but it will draw strong competition next week in Las Vegas and give Byrd a useful proving ground. Scouts hope to see him make strides offensively, particularly as a shooter, and he should have opportunities to grow as a playmaker, as well.
27. Atlanta Hawks (via Cleveland)
Meleek Thomas, PG/SG, Arkansas
Freshman
2025-26 stats: 17.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, 4.8 assists in four games
Thomas has displayed some growth as a decision-maker and passer, but also struggled with efficiency as he adjusts to college basketball. His toughness, positional size, productivity and scoring instincts give him interesting upside as he continues to try to prove he’s more than purely a scorer. Arkansas is relying heavily on him to generate offense, but he’ll need to be more consistent and sharpen his shot selection to strengthen his one-and-done case.
The Hawks will receive the worse of their own first/San Antonio’s first and the Cavaliers’ first.
28. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Houston)
Alex Condon, C, Florida
Junior
2025-26 stats: 16.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists in four games
While Condon can be divisive for scouts due to concerns about his offensive output, mobility, passing flashes and defensive mentality give him tools to work with as a potential glue guy at the NBA level. After playing a major role in Florida’s 2025 title run, he’ll draw longer looks this time around. He picked up basketball late and there’s some untapped upside here if he can add a reliable jumper and polish his skills further. Condon has been much more productive out of the gate as a scorer, pointing the arrow in the right direction at the moment.
The Thunder will have the two most favorable of their own, Houston’s (if 5-30) and the Clippers’ firsts.
29. Denver Nuggets
Joseph Tugler, PF/C, Houston
Junior
2025-26 stats: 8.5 points, 5 rebounds, 1.5 assists in four games
Tugler is a defensive ace with elite length who cleans up mistakes and wins extra possessions on the interior in a way that should translate into some level of NBA utility. He’s also a limited offensive player, which makes his fit more team-specific and makes him a bit divisive for scouts. He’ll make the most sense as a plug-and-play specialist on a playoff team with a specific vision for how to use him. The idea of him in Denver as a defender off the bench is entertaining to think about.
30. Washington Wizards (via Oklahoma City)
Dwayne Aristode, SF, Arizona
Freshman
2025-26 stats: 6.3 points, 1.5 rebounds, 1 assist in four games
Aristode had NBA teams heavily intrigued with his impressive frame (6-8, 220) and 3-and-D potential entering the season. It’s hard to get carried away considering the context, as his playing time has been up and down, logging less than 10 minutes in Arizona’s biggest games against Florida and UCLA, but he showed off his shooting with six 3s against Northern Arizona. After missing his senior year of high school with a foot injury, Aristode is clearly still getting up to speed, but will need to get a better foothold from a minutes perspective to make a one-and-done case. If he can carve out a role like Carter Bryant did last season, there’s a pathway into the draft as a developmental player.
The Wizards hold the least favorable of the Clippers’, Rockets’ and Thunder’s firsts.
Round 2 picks
- Brooklyn Nets: Sergio de Larrea, PG/SG, Valencia (Spain)
- New York Knicks (via Washington): Patrick Ngongba, C, Duke, Sophomore
- San Antonio Spurs (via Utah): Nikolas Khamenia, SF/PF, Duke, Freshman
- Memphis Grizzlies (via Indiana): Cameron Carr, SG/SF, Baylor, Sophomore
- Boston Celtics (via New Orleans): Braden Smith, PG, Purdue, Senior
- Sacramento Kings: JT Toppin, PF/C, Texas Tech, Senior
- Sacramento Kings (via Charlotte): Karter Knox, SG/SF, Arkansas, Sophomore
- Oklahoma City Thunder (via Dallas): Alex Karaban, SF/PF, UConn, Senior
- LA Clippers (via Memphis): Tahaad Pettiford, PG, Auburn, Sophomore
- Brooklyn Nets (via LA Clippers): Henri Veesaar, C, North Carolina, Junior
- Washington Wizards (via Phoenix): Magoon Gwath, C, San Diego State, Sophomore
- San Antonio Spurs (via Portland): Paul McNeil Jr., SG, NC State, Sophomore
- Houston Rockets (via Chicago): Tomislav Ivisic, C, Illinois, Junior
- Boston Celtics (via Milwaukee): Darrion Williams, SF, NC State, Senior
- Atlanta Hawks (via Boston): Brayden Burries, SG, Arizona, Freshman
- Toronto Raptors: Wesley Yates III, SG, Washington, Sophomore
- Orlando Magic: Motiejus Krivas, C, Arizona, Junior
- Charlotte Hornets (via Golden State): Milos Uzan, PG, Houston, Senior
- San Antonio Spurs (via Miami): Andrej Stojakovic, SG/SF, Illinois, Junior
- Washington Wizards (via Minnesota): Mouhamed Sylla, C, Georgia Tech, Freshman
- Minnesota Timberwolves (via San Antonio): Adam Atamna, SG, ASVEL (France)
- New York Knicks (via Detroit): Dailyn Swain, SG/SF, Texas, Junior
- Phoenix Suns (via Philadelphia): Morez Johnson Jr., PF/C, Michigan, Sophomore
- Brooklyn Nets (via Atlanta): Moustapha Thiam, C, Cincinnati, Sophomore
- Toronto Raptors (via Los Angeles): Michael Ruzic, PF/C, Joventut (Spain)
- New York Knicks: Boogie Fland, PG, Florida, Sophomore
- Cleveland Cavaliers: Richie Saunders, SG/SF, BYU, Senior
- Houston Rockets: Nolan Winter, PF/C, Wisconsin, Junior
- Minnesota Timberwolves (via Denver): Solo Ball, SG, UConn, Junior
- Washington Wizards (via Oklahoma City): Tucker DeVries, SG/SF, Indiana, Senior
By Jeremy Woo | ESPN, via ESPN