2026 NBA Draft
With the First Round of the NBA draft completed, lets take a look back at each of the players drafted and understand more about these prospects and how they will fit into your team!
#1 Washington Wizards - AJ Dybantsa
For much of the previous college season, AJ Dybantsa was the projected 1st overall pick. AJ Dybantsa is a versatile, athletic wing who tested with a 42-inch max vertical leap. Dybantsa, who averaged 25.5 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists, is a bonafide shot creator who should have no problem fitting in offensively at the next level. At 6'9 with a 7' wingspan, Dybantsa is a switchable defender who is capable of guarding each position on the floor.
AJ Dybantsa is set for the nation's capital. Dybantsa fits within a stacked Washington Wizards team to help try to change the narrative of the Wizards franchise. With the additions of Anthony Davis and Trae Young, Dybantsa fits in perfectly with this team as a switchable defender and a player who is able to get a bucket when needed, especially in the mid-range. With Young, Johnson, Dybantsa, AD and Sarr, this creates a special starting five with huge role players to fill out the rest of this team. It will be exciting to see how the Wizards do this year, headlined by the number one overall pick.
#2 Utah Jazz - Darryn Peterson
Darryn Peterson entered college as one of the most accomplished guards in his recruiting class and quickly cemented himself as a top-three prospect. Peterson is a dynamic lead guard who excels as both a scorer and playmaker. His combination of ball-handling, shot creation, and basketball IQ allows him to control the pace of games. At 6'5", Peterson possesses ideal size for a modern NBA guard and has the strength to finish through contact. He projects as a potential All-Star caliber primary ball-handler. Darryn Peterson had question marks coming into the draft about his injuries and his ability to regularly compete in the NCAA Tournament without having to check himself out of the game.
Not a shock at all, Darryn Peterson goes second overall to Utah. Although in an interview Peterson said he wouldn't like to go to the Jazz, I think he will fit in nicely alongside players like Keyonte George, Ace Bailey, Lauri Markkanen, Jaren Jackson Jr. and Walker Kessler. Similar to the Wizards, the Jazz upgraded their talent profile in the middle of last season**,** adding JJJ. The electric guard, and one of the most talented prospects in recent draft history, will be a bonafide scorer and an absolute superstar for years to come. With the amount of talent on this team, this will allow Peterson to ease into it given his injury history if he needs to. The future looks bright for Utah.
#3 Memphis Grizzlies - Cameron Boozer
Cameron Boozer spent years ranked among the top players in his class and remains one of the safest prospects in the draft. Boozer is a polished forward who impacts winning in virtually every area of the game. The Duke star combines advanced footwork, rebounding, passing, and scoring ability rarely seen from players his age. At 6'9" and over 240 pounds, Boozer possesses NBA-ready strength while maintaining the skill level of a perimeter player. His blend of production and feel makes him one of the most complete prospects available.
Cameron Boozer was one of the three possible players to be taken first overall in this year's draft. Cam Boozer will likely become the franchise player of the Grizzlies for years to come, given the likelihood of trading Ja Morant. Boozer's size, physicality and star-studded talent will be a force to be reckoned with. With the lack of traditional power forwards over recent years, Boozer is going to be a cornerstone for years to come alongside Zach Edey. His ability to stretch the floor will instantly help him transition well into the NBA, as he shot 39% from three at Duke.
#4 Chicago Bulls - Caleb Wilson
Caleb Wilson emerged as one of the most intriguing prospects in college basketball thanks to his unique combination of size and athleticism. Wilson is a versatile forward who thrives in transition and can defend multiple positions. His length, mobility, and defensive instincts allow him to disrupt offenses across the floor. At 6'10", Wilson possesses the physical tools NBA teams covet, and continued offensive development could unlock star-level upside.
Caleb Wilson was the consensus number four overall pick in this year's draft. No surprise given new head coach Spliter’s ideal philosophy of a physical player, Wilson will fit in perfectly with this team and culture. With All-Defensive team potential, it will be exciting to see him alongside new addition Nic Claxton. His offensive game will look to be elevated by Josh Giddey as the premier playmaker. His physical tools and size will be extremely important to the Bulls' future.
#5 LA Clippers - Keaton Wagler
Keaton Wagler emerged as one of the biggest risers in the 2026 class. Wagler is a jumbo guard who combines excellent positional size with advanced shooting ability and secondary playmaking. Standing 6'7", he can operate both on and off the ball, making him a seamless fit alongside other stars. His ability to defend multiple positions and space the floor has made him a favorite among NBA scouts. Many evaluators view Wagler as one of the safest prospects in the lottery due to his versatile skill set and high basketball IQ.
Now that the draft starts to become more unpredictable, Keaton Wagler is headed to LA to become an off-ball scorer alongside Darius Garland. If anything, this pick likely reinforces the idea that Darius Garland is backed by the Clippers organisation. At 6'7" shooting 40% from three at Illinois, Keaton Wagler could see significant time as a rookie and can be a massive game changer. A player who can change the game, Wagler was overlooked in high school and still feels like he has something to prove. Darius Garland, Keaton Wagler and Kawhi Leonard will be an exciting team that looks to battle against a stacked Western Conference.
#6 Brooklyn Nets - Mikel Brown Jr.
Mikel Brown Jr. established himself as one of the premier point guards in the country through his elite decision-making and offensive efficiency. Brown is a true floor general who consistently makes the right play while also possessing advanced scoring ability. His quickness, shooting touch, and court vision allow him to create advantages for teammates. At the next level, he projects as a starting-caliber point guard capable of orchestrating an NBA offense.
Adding to the influx of young guards after last season's draft, Mikel Brown Jr. is a player who can control the offense and score well on all three levels. In a star-studded guard class, Mikel Brown will stay in Brooklyn after the draft, joining a rebuilding Nets team. As a freshman last season at Louisville, he led the team in assists and was close behind in leading the team in points. He will look to follow in Donovan Mitchell's footsteps as a star guard in the NBA..
#7 Sacramento Kings - Darius Acuff Jr.
Darius Acuff Jr. entered the season as one of the most highly regarded point guards in the country and did nothing but improve his stock throughout the year. Acuff averaged 23.5 points and 6.4 assists while leading Arkansas to an SEC Tournament championship and earning SEC Player of the Year honors. A crafty three-level scorer, Acuff thrives in pick-and-roll situations where his handle, pace, and pull-up shooting make him extremely difficult to contain. At 6'2", Acuff lacks ideal size for an NBA lead guard, and some scouts question his defensive ceiling. However, his offensive production, shot creation, and playmaking ability have him firmly projected as a top-10 selection.
Continuing the Coach Cal guard portfolio, Darius Acuff Jr. is an undersized guard (6'2") who will have no problem leading the Kings back to the playoffs. Darius Acuff led the SEC in both points per game and assists per game last season as a freshman, recording 23.5 PPG and 6.4 APG. The only other player to do so was Pete Maravich in the late 1960s. Acuff will bring some excitement and youth to the quite old Kings team. He should be on watch as one of the players who could challenge for Rookie of the Year alongside the first couple of picks.
#8 Atlanta Hawks - Kingston Flemings
Kingston Flemings is a physical combo guard who consistently pressures defenses with his attacking style. Flemings excels getting downhill and finishing through contact while also showing flashes as a secondary playmaker. His competitive nature and defensive intensity have impressed scouts throughout his development. With continued shooting improvement, Flemings has the tools to become a valuable two-way NBA guard.
This now marks the most consecutive freshmen ever taken in the NBA draft. The Atlanta Hawks received this pick last year from the Derrick Queen trade. Kingston Flemings is a tough defender who will challenge opposing guards. Whilst his offense doesn't look traditional or "pretty," his jump shot continues to land, shooting 39% from three off limited shots, and his sneaky athleticism will surprise some people. Atlanta will certainly be happy with their return from this trade. With other key defensive players on this team, CJ McCollum, Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Kingston Flemings will be an exciting backcourt.
#9 Dallas Mavericks - Morez Johhnson jr.
Morez Johnson Jr. established himself as one of the toughest interior players in college basketball. Johnson is a relentless rebounder who consistently creates extra possessions through his effort and physicality. At 6'10" with a powerful frame, he excels as a rim runner, screener, and interior defender. While he may never be a high-volume scorer, Johnson's motor and defensive impact project well to the modern NBA, where teams value players willing to do the dirty work.
With the addition of Dusty May as the new Mavs head coach, his first move as head coach includes selecting his old college star Morez Johnson. He will be an electric frontcourt addition alongside Cooper Flagg. Johnson is an athletic big who is working on his jump shot, but his main abilities come from his explosiveness both offensively and defensively. His defensive instincts are second to none and he was one of my favourite players heading into the draft. The 20-year-old will join Cooper Flagg and Kyrie Irving to help push the Mavs into the post-Nico Harrison era.
#10 milwaukee Bucks - Brayden Burries
Brayden Burries rose into lottery consideration due to his scoring prowess and physical profile. Burries is a powerful Guard who creates offense both in transition and in the half court. His strength allows him to finish through defenders while his improving perimeter game adds another dimension to his offense. At 6'5" with a strong frame, Burries projects as a versatile scoring Guard at the professional level.
Labeled by Bobby Marks as the ‘silent assassin’, Brayden Burries is the first selection in the post Giannis era. The Arizona guard will help the Bucks quickly get out of their ‘rebuild’ alongside as new addition Tyler Herro. After a slow start to the college season, Burries exploded from December and beyond, showing his shooting ability off. The Bucks should be extreammly excited with their new young core, no having to worry about losing for draft picks. They may be a dark horse to push into the play-in tournament, which will also be helped by the 13th overall pick.
#11 Golden State Warriors - Yaxel Lendeborg
Yaxel Lendeborg enters the draft as one of the most productive players in college basketball. Lendeborg impacts games through rebounding, passing, defense, and efficient scoring. At 6'9", he possesses the versatility to play multiple frontcourt positions and contributes in every statistical category. His mature game and high basketball IQ make him one of the more NBA-ready prospects in the class. However by the time the NBA Season commences next season he will be 24 years old.
The former national champion and warrior fittingly ends up in Golden State. After battling through injury in the national championship game to help Michigan win, and waiting year upon year to enter the draft. After transferring schools, Yaxel Lendeborg is an NBA ready star who will be able to do everything in his power to contribute to the winning culture that Steph, Steve Kerr and Draymond Green possess. While he will be 24 years old at the start of next season, he is a player who I could see having a long carrer and retiring late. An inspiring story, i believe Warriors fans will be thrilled with this draft pick. It seems likely the warriors will be pushing for another championship in the Steph Curry era.
#12 OKC Thunder - Aday Mara
Aday Mara is one of the most unique prospects in the class due to his combination of size and skill. Standing 7’3 tall, Mara possesses exceptional passing vision and touch rarely seen from players his size. The Michigan big man is an effective rim protector and rebounder while also functioning as an offensive hub from the high post. Concerns about his mobility have caused some fluctuation in his draft stock, but his offensive feel and size make him one of the most intriguing frontcourt prospects available. The big man recorded a 9’9 standing reach which tested the largest at the NBA Combine ever.
Aday Mara, another national champion off the board. The 7’3 skilled playmaker is incredibly talented for his size. A big culture guy, Aday will fit perfectly with the Thunder culture. Aday Mara, is a Spanish strechable big who will fit perfectly in this thunder offense. Enough can’t be said about the ceiling of Mara. Given the opportunity, Mara should explode onto the scene. Given this draft selection, the selection of Sober last year and Hartenstein performance last year, the question has to be asked about Chet’s future in OKC. Especially with the new CBA, OKC will be heavily penalised for the salaries they have. We have already seen OKC try to shed some salary in the Arron Wiggins trade a couple days ago.
#13 milwaukee Bucks - Nate Ament
Nate Ament is one of the highest-upside forwards in the class. Ament's combination of perimeter skill and frontcourt size makes him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses. Standing nearly 6'10", he is comfortable handling the ball, attacking closeouts, and shooting from deep. Defensively, his length and fluidity give him significant versatility. NBA teams view Ament as a developmental prospect with substantial long-term star potential.
One of the best upsides in draft, Nate Ament is a 6’10 prospect who hasn’t finished growing, and his skill’s haven’t fully developed. It makes sense that the Bucks would selected Ament here, as Giannis’ absence will help give Nate Ament the chance to grow and hopefully hit his extremily huge ceiling. Like mentioned earlier, the Bucks are in a great spot post the Giannis era. His upside is one to watch, even if it isn’t in his rookie season, by the end of his rookie contract, he could be looking like a future All-Star.
#14 Charlotte Hornets - Hannes Steinbach
Hannes Steinbach is among the top international prospects available. The skilled big man combines size, touch, and passing ability in a package that fits the modern NBA. Steinbach is comfortable operating from the perimeter while also providing interior scoring and rebounding. His offensive versatility has drawn comparisons to several successful European frontcourt players currently in the league.
A premier rebounder, Hannes Steinbach will be joining an incredibly stacked guard and wing based team. The 6’10 forward lead the country in rebounds at just under 12 a game. Hannes is an interesting prospect who is probably found a perfect fit in Charlotte, with their lack of a premier rebounder. Although they drafted Kalkbrenner last year, it would suprise me in Steinbach got significant playing time early.
#15 Chicago Bulls - Dailyn Swain
Dailyn Swain is one of the most physically imposing wings in the draft class. Swain excels when attacking downhill, using his size, strength, and athleticism to pressure defenses. At 6'7", he can handle the ball, initiate offense, and defend multiple positions. Questions remain regarding his perimeter shooting consistency, but his ability to impact games as a slasher and defender has made him a popular first-round projection. NBA teams view him as a potential two-way wing capable of filling a variety of roles.
Another Spliter system pick, Dailyn Swain is a tough-minded defender who is going to make an impact defensively right away. The predominant slasher is another one who will benefit from Josh Giddey's playmaking. With room to grow in his three-point shot, Swain is going to have the opportunity to do so with the open looks that his teammates are going to create. With one of the best wing defenders in the draft added to their team, the Bulls are slowly creeping up the ranks.
#16 OKC Thunder - Bennett Stirtz
Bennett Stirtz became one of the biggest risers in college basketball thanks to his remarkable offensive production. Stirtz is a crafty lead guard who consistently manipulates defenses with his pace, vision, and decision-making. Despite lacking elite athleticism, he routinely creates advantages through skill and basketball IQ. At 6'4", Stirtz projects as a high-level offensive organizer capable of running an NBA second unit with upside for more.
With this pick originally belonging to Memphis, the Thunder traded two second-round picks and pick 17 for the 6'4" guard. Another player on a rookie scale contract, the Thunder are obviously confident in Stirtz's abilities to add depth to this backcourt as a playmaker. This makes McCain and Stirtz the backup guards for the Thunder, both of whom are on rookie contracts. With their limited ability to add in free agency, this makes a lot of sense going forward for the Thunder.
#17 Detroit Pistons - Ebuka Okorie
Ebuka Okorie emerged as one of the most explosive freshmen in college basketball after leading the ACC in scoring at Stanford. Okorie averaged 23.3 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 3.6 assists while earning First-Team All-ACC honors and breaking several freshman scoring records. A dynamic three-level scorer, he combines elite shot creation, tight ball-handling, and relentless rim pressure to generate offense against any defense. At 6'2" with a near 6'8" wingspan, Okorie lacks ideal size but compensates with toughness, athleticism, and impressive scoring instincts. His ability to create his own shot and carry an offense has many scouts viewing him as one of the highest-upside guards in the class.
After this pick goes to the Pistons, one of the smaller guards in the draft at 6'1", Ebuka Okorie is a tough, microwave scorer who will prove to be important to the future of Detroit. Okorie's ability to turn it up quickly could make him one of the better sixth men in the league, sitting behind Cade Cunningham. Similar to Payton Pritchard, his ability to score in clumps could earn him a long career in Detroit, and he will be an exciting addition next to Dennis Schroder. Okorie had eight 30-point games last college season.
#18 Charlotte Hornets - Christian Anderson
Christian Anderson emerged as one of the biggest risers in college basketball following a breakout sophomore season at Texas Tech. Anderson averaged 18.5 points and 7.5 assists per game while earning First-Team All-Big 12 honors and leading the Red Raiders to the Sweet 16. A dynamic offensive guard, Anderson is an elite shooter who can create his own shot and operate effectively in pick-and-roll situations. At 6'2", he lacks ideal size but compensates with advanced playmaking, scoring instincts, and a high basketball IQ. His combination of shooting and shot creation projects him as an immediate offensive contributor at the NBA level.
The self-proclaimed best shooter in the draft will be joining the best rookie three-point shooter in NBA history. Christian Anderson is a high-energy player who can self-create as well as create for others. Similar to Jalen Brunson, the small guard can't be ruled out as one of the best scorers in the draft. Anderson will be joining former German teammate Steinbach in Charlotte.
#19 Toronto Raptors - Allen Graves
Allen Graves was one of the biggest risers in the 2026 draft cycle after a breakout redshirt freshman season at Santa Clara. Graves averaged 11.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, 1.9 steals, and nearly a block per game while shooting 41% from three and earning both WCC Freshman of the Year and Sixth Man of the Year honors. At 6'8" and 226 pounds with a 7-foot wingspan, Graves is a versatile forward who impacts games with his defensive instincts, floor spacing, and relentless offensive rebounding. His combination of shooting, defensive playmaking, and high basketball IQ has many scouts viewing him as one of the safest role-player prospects in the first round.
One of the best defensive players in the draft, Allen Graves' 7-foot wingspan makes him a star defensively — he averaged nearly two steals a game and nearly a block a game. His shooting has room for improvement, but his defense is what lands him at pick 19. It will be interesting to see how Graves fits alongside Barrett, Ingram and Barnes. If he improves his shot, Graves could be a much sought-after player to compete on championship teams.
#20 San Antonio Spurs - Jayden Quaintance
Jayden Quaintance is widely regarded as one of the best defensive prospects in the class. Quaintance possesses elite shot-blocking instincts and exceptional mobility for a player his size. His ability to protect the rim while also switching onto perimeter players makes him a valuable modern defensive big man. Although his offensive game remains a work in progress, his defensive ceiling gives him significant appeal. Unfortunately, Quaintance has been riddled with injuries, especially in his knees, which prematurely ended his season with Kentucky last season.
The Spurs take a chance on one of the best prospects in the draft with Jayden Quaintance. Probably the best shot blocker in the draft, Quaintance will be a force to be reckoned with next to or backing up Wembanyama. The only reason Quaintance would have slid this far is due to the injury history he carries in his knees, which ended his season early at Kentucky last year. This could turn out to be a very exciting frontcourt in San Antonio.
#21 Memphis Grizzlies - Karim Lopez
Karim Lopez has steadily climbed draft boards thanks to his combination of physical tools and long-term upside. The Mexican wing possesses an NBA-ready frame and plays with a level of toughness that coaches love. At 6'8", Lopez uses his strength to finish through contact while also providing defensive versatility on the perimeter. Although his jump shot remains a work in progress, many teams believe his athleticism and two-way potential give him significant room for growth at the next level.
The first ever Mexican player to be picked in the first round, Karim Lopez is a versatile wing. Playing his rookie season at 19, Karim Lopez spent two years in the NBL. He has scored the most points in the NBL Next program, which has included players like Josh Giddey and LaMelo Ball. Karim Lopez is a physical, NBA-ready player who will be an interesting frontcourt duo alongside Cam Boozer. The international prospect is set to contribute to Memphis immediately.
#22 Philadelphia 76ers - Labaron philon jr.
LaBaron Philon quickly climbed draft boards thanks to his poise and efficiency as a lead guard. Philon excels in pick-and-roll situations and consistently makes smart decisions with the basketball. His combination of quickness, vision, and scoring touch allows him to impact games without dominating possession. Teams value his high floor and ability to contribute immediately at the next level.
This is the pick that Jared McCain was traded for, and LaBaron Philon will have a lot to live up to in the 76ers' eyes. However, if there is one player at this range who is likely to live up to that hype, it would be Philon. After going past the draft last year, LaBaron entered the draft expecting to be a lottery pick. After sliding to pick 22, LaBaron was quite emotional and will definitely have something to prove next season for the 76ers. After going back to school last year, the 20-year-old improved his jump shot to over 40% from three. This is a much-needed addition to the 76ers' backcourt bench alongside the star performances from Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe last season.
#23 Atlanta Hawks - Zuby Ejiofor
Zuby Ejiofor emerged as one of the most productive two-way players in college basketball after a breakout senior season at St. John's. Ejiofor averaged 16.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 2.1 blocks per game while earning Big East Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year honors. At 6'9" with a 7'2" wingspan and a powerful 245-pound frame, Ejiofor is a versatile defender capable of guarding multiple positions and impacting the game with his toughness and motor. While his perimeter shooting remains a work in progress, his rebounding, rim protection, and defensive versatility have many scouts viewing him as one of the safest frontcourt prospects in the late first round.
One of the best big defenders in the draft, Ejiofor is being added to a now more complete Atlanta Hawks team. With the addition of Kingston Flemings, the Hawks are making big strides with their bench. They will look to have a full roster of players who could all play as starters. Zuby Ejiofor is being added to an already electric defensive team.
#24 lA Lakers - Cameron Carr
Cameron Carr possesses many of the physical traits NBA teams covet in modern wings. Carr combines length, athleticism, and shooting ability to impact games on both ends of the floor. At 6'6", he thrives in transition and has shown flashes of becoming a reliable perimeter defender. Continued development as a shot creator could elevate his ceiling, but his three-and-D potential alone gives him strong first-round value. Similarly to fellow former Baylor Bear VJ Edgecombe, Cameron Carr is a highlight machine.
One of the biggest highlight players in this draft, Cameron Carr is going to one of the biggest markets in the country. Cam Carr is a three-and-D prospect who is going to be much needed around Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. Carr will be a lethal shooter to help space the floor and will really benefit from what Luka Dončić can bring as a playmaker. With question marks about LeBron's future, Cameron Carr could move into a starting wing role sometime throughout the season.
#25 New York Knicks - Sergio De Larrea
Sergio De Larrea established himself as one of the top international guards in the 2026 draft after a strong season with Valencia in Spain's top professional league. De Larrea averaged 7.1 points and 2.9 assists while shooting 40.9% from three against high-level competition. At 6'6" with a 6'9" wingspan, he possesses excellent size for a point guard and uses his court vision, passing ability, and basketball IQ to control the pace of the game. A polished playmaker and efficient shooter, De Larrea projects as a versatile floor general who can play both on and off the ball at the NBA level.
A bit more of an unknown prospect, De Larrea is a guard/wing who has experience against much older and more experienced competition. The reigning NBA champions will add De Larrea as more of a project player, as some of their guards still have a bit more in them to contribute. Overall, De Larrea will be an interesting player to watch in a couple of years' time.
#26 San Antonio Spurs - Tarris Reed Jr.
Tarris Reed Jr. elevated his draft stock after a dominant senior season at UConn, averaging 14.7 points, 9.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 2.0 blocks while helping lead the Huskies to the national championship game. At 6'10" and 260 pounds with a 7'4" wingspan, Reed is a powerful interior presence who excels as a rebounder, rim protector, and screen-and-roll finisher. His improved passing ability and physicality have made him one of the most NBA-ready big men in the class. Scouts view Reed as a high-floor center capable of contributing immediately as a rotation big.
After selecting another big man earlier in the draft, Tarris Reed will join Quaintance on the Spurs after they traded up for him. Another interior body, Reed could slide into the rotation with some of their backup centers being a bit older. The Spurs will hope that with their two new big men they can bring big energy and get some run in the playoffs.
#27 Boston Celtics - Chris Cenac Jr.
Chris Cenac Jr. is a modern center with impressive mobility and defensive upside. Cenac combines length, athleticism, and timing to protect the rim while also showing flashes of perimeter skill offensively. At 6'11", he runs the floor exceptionally well and has the tools to become a versatile defensive anchor. Teams selecting in the latter half of the first round are intrigued by his combination of physical gifts and long-term developmental potential.
One of the bigger sliders in this draft, Cenac will be a great addition as a young big alongside Queta. Cenac's athleticism allows him to have an incredibly high defensive ceiling, while also allowing him to fit in well if the Celtics continue to be a fast-paced team, as his ability to run the floor is his biggest offensive asset. The Celtics will use Cenac to continue to push throughout the playoffs.
#28 Brooklyn Nets - Joshua Jefferson
Joshua Jefferson steadily developed into one of the most versatile forwards in college basketball during his time at Iowa State. Jefferson averaged 16.4 points, 7.4 rebounds, 4.8 assists, and 1.6 steals as a senior while impacting the game in virtually every category. At 6'8" and 246 pounds, he combines strength, playmaking, and defensive versatility to guard multiple positions and facilitate offense. His all-around skill set and high basketball IQ have many scouts viewing him as a valuable two-way forward who can contribute in a variety of NBA roles.
The first Iowa State player selected in the first round since Tyrese Haliburton, Joshua Jefferson is a very flexible player who is capable of playing many different roles. He could be a plug-and-play option for many different teams, however he lands with the Nets. The fit with the Nets will be one to look out for. His stats may not jump off the page next season, but he could be a future trade target for many contending NBA teams.
#29 Sacramento Kings - Alex Karaban
Alex Karaban finished his decorated UConn career as one of the most accomplished players in program history. Karaban averaged 13.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 2.4 assists while shooting 37% from three and earning First-Team All-Big East honors. At 6'7" with a 6'11" wingspan, Karaban is an elite floor-spacing forward whose shooting, basketball IQ, and winning pedigree make him an attractive NBA prospect. While he lacks top-end athleticism, his ability to stretch the floor and make smart decisions projects him as an immediate contributor at the next level.
The greatest player in UConn program history, Alex Karaban joins a Sacramento team that needs to create an identity and a winning culture. With the previous addition of Darius Acuff, Alex Karaban could be the perfect player to join this Kings roster. His versatility and desire to compete in whatever role is needed for his team to win make Karaban another prospect who would have been on many teams' boards in the early second round as a franchise tone setter. The Kings will definitely be happy with this pick.
#30 Phoenix Suns - Koa Peat
Koa Peat entered college as one of the most highly decorated recruits in the country and quickly became a key contributor for Arizona. Peat averaged 14.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.6 assists while helping lead the Wildcats to the Final Four. At 6'7" and 245 pounds, he possesses an NBA-ready frame and thrives as a physical downhill scorer who embraces contact. His toughness, versatility, and winning mentality have made him an intriguing late first-round prospect, though continued development as a perimeter shooter will be key to maximizing his NBA ceiling.
Koa Peat is a player the Suns moved up to take for a reason. With an NBA-ready build and a developing physical skill set, Peat can compete on a Suns team that has an edge with something to prove. This addition next to Dillon Brooks will create great mentorship for him, and his fit on the court with Jalen Green and Devin Booker will be exciting and one to watch.
-JB