The draft discussion is always percolating here at No Ceilings, and the hot stove is about to get even hotter. With the NCAA season now officially in the rearview mirror after last night’s championship game, and with the end of the NBA regular season also rapidly approaching, it’s beginning to look a lot like draft time.

For those of you who are new here, or for the old heads who need a refresher, here is a rundown of how we piece these Mock Drafts together:

• Our entire No Ceilings team gathered in our War Room for a Mock Draft.

• Pick by pick, we went around the room and nominated players we would each consider for every selection.

• Once we debrief (for way too long), each selection came down to a vote.

• These are the results, with written breakdowns for all 30 picks in the first round.

• Draft order is by the standings from Saturday, April 4th.

Now, without further ado…

March Madness is now over; let the real madness begin.

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#1. WASHINGTON WIZARDS — AJ Dybantsa | F | BYU

• Measurements: 6’9”, 210

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 25.5 PTS | 6.8 REB | 3.7 AST | 1.1 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 51.0 FG% | 33.1 3P% | 77.4 FT%

  • 35 Games | 34.8 MIN

Jam: Wizards fans, rejoice; there is finally lottery luck in the DMV! The front office, led by Will Dawkins and Michael Winger, has been masterful in navigating the rebuild. There is now a terrific young core in place (Sarr, Johnson, George, Riley, Coulibaly, Carrington, Watkins) alongside two bona fide All-Stars in Young and Davis. Now, enter AJ Dybantsa, the young superstar-level prospect with the pedigree, production, and skillset that the organization and fanbase have been hoping to get for quite a while.

At 6’9”, Dybantsa is a double-plus athlete with elite NBA physical tools, ball skills, dynamic multiple shotmaking, and two-way upside. The Wizards won’t need him to do everything right away, which affords Dybantsa a soft landing spot to grow and capitalize on his superstar upside. In theory, the fit and situation are very similar to Cooper Flagg being selected by Dallas first overall (Irving injury aside).

#2. BROOKLYN NETS — Darryn Peterson | G | Kansas

• Measurements: 6’6”, 205

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 20.2 PTS | 4.2 REB | 1.6 AST | 1.4 STL | 0.6 BLK

  • 43.8 FG% | 38.2 3P% | 82.6 FT%

  • 24 Games | 29.1 MIN

Metcalf: The Nets are still looking for that franchise cornerstone, and there aren’t many prospects in recent years who are as enticing a candidate to fill that role as Darryn Peterson. Even though the Nets have been brutal in recent years, they are starting to put complementary pieces in place while also having what looks like an impressive head coach. Peterson would fit exactly what they need and give them an uber talent to build around. The narrative that Peterson was a point guard coming into this season was always a fallacy. He’s a shooting guard who has a lot of creation potential. Thankfully, the Nets took a billion point guards in last year’s draft. The Brooklyn offense would see an immediate spike in competency and entertainment value because of Peterson’s lethality both on and off the ball. Peterson is the exact type of guard prospect NBA teams dream about building around, and his introduction would elevate the intriguing building blocks they already have in place.

#3. INDIANA PACERS — Cameron Boozer | F | Duke

• Measurements: 6’9”, 250

• Year: Freshman (18)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 22.5 PTS | 10.2 REB | 4.1 AST | 1.4 STL | 0.6 BLK

  • 55.6 FG% | 39.1 3P% | 78.9 FT%

  • 38 Games | 33.4 MIN

Rucker: The hope for Pacers fans is that the night of the NBA Draft Lottery doesn’t bring any unpleasant surprises. After acquiring Ivica Zubac from the Clippers, the Pacers will be dancing in the war room if this pick lands in the Top 4. Indiana has one of the best rosters of any team picking this high, in terms of potential fit for these prospects. For now, the Pacers are slotted at #3, which could present an interesting dilemma. While Caleb Wilson is sure to present a bit of pause with every pick, there’s no doubt that Cameron Boozer fits like a glove with the Pacers. Boozer is coming off a tremendous freshman campaign with the Duke Blue Devils and is a machine on the court. He’s a bully around the basket; his quick processing, rebounding_, and playmaking ability would get the Pacers up and running quickly as they look to move past a hopeful “gap” year. Adding Zubac and now Boozer gives the Pacers a dangerous frontcourt with playmaking and rebounding ability to pair beautifully with the rest of the assets on the roster.

#4. UTAH JAZZ — Caleb Wilson | F | North Carolina

• Measurements: 6’10”, 215

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 19.8 PTS | 9.4 REB | 2.7 AST | 1.5 STL | 1.4 BLK

  • 57.8 FG% | 25.9 3P% | 71.3 FT%

  • 24 Games | 31.3 MIN

Stephen: Though we have not seen Caleb Wilson play in nearly two months, the film and underlying indicators still point to him as a viable selection at #4—if not higher. The roster questions are real. Utah already has frontcourt investments in Jaren Jackson Jr., Lauri Markkanen, and Ace Bailey, with additional developmental pieces in Walker Kessler, Kyle Filipowski, and Cody Williams. Wilson likely begins his career at the 4, but there are functional pathways to minutes at both the 3 and some at the 5 spot.

Utah is still in a position where talent acquisition outweighs roster balance. Wilson offers a combination of size, fluid athleticism, and two-way versatility that is difficult to replicate anywhere else in this class. Layer in the passing feel, defensive playmaking, and a trajectory toward credible shooting, and you have a profile that fits how modern frontcourts scale. If Utah finds itself with surplus at the position, that is a downstream problem—one that can be solved with optionality. Passing on this type of toolset at #4 is the greater risk.

#5. SACRAMENTO KINGS — Darius Acuff | G | Arkansas

• Measurements: 6’3”, 190

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 23.5 PTS | 3.1 REB | 6.4 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 48.4 FG% | 44.0 3P% | 80.9 FT%

  • 36 Games | 35.2 MIN

Nick: The recent wins from the young guns for the Sacramento Kings have pushed them out of the top spot when it comes to lottery odds, but they do still get the first pick after the all-but-cemented top four players come off the board. The Kings have a plethora of combo guards, but no true long-term solution at point guard (even if Russell Westbrook does come back, he’s not exactly the point guard of the future at this point in his career). Enter Darius Acuff Jr., whose electric scoring and dynamic passing would instantly be a huge boost for a Sacramento squad that ranks last in three-point percentage and attempts. The rookie dynamic duo of Maxime Raynaud and Dylan Cardwell will be able to take full advantage of Acuff’s ability to make plays for others; while Acuff’s defense is still a concern, he solves way too many of the offensive problems for the Kings for them to pass up on him here.

#6. DALLAS MAVERICKS — Mikel Brown Jr. | G | Louisville

• Measurements: 6’5”, 190

• Year: Freshman (20)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 18.2 PTS | 3.3 REB | 4.7 AST | 1.2 STL | 0.1 BLK

  • 41.0 FG% | 34.4 3P% | 84.4 FT%

  • 21 Games | 29 MIN

Corey: The Dallas Mavericks go with Louisville’s Mikel Brown Jr. here and instantly have one of the most exciting young cores in the league with Flagg, Brown, and Lively. Brown had an up-and-down freshman campaign–some efficiency inconsistency and back injuries that raise fair questions–but he also had arguably the highest highs of any guard in the class, with a game that translates even better to the NBA than it did to college. His combination of bounce, plus size, playmaking, and volume shooting from range is unmatched in this class. He’s tailor-made to play next to Flagg, and he fits next to Kyrie Irving just as naturally, given how comfortable he is creating chaos as an off-ball shooter. With plenty of intriguing options on the board, Dallas lands a prospect who could realistically end up as one of the three or four best players from this entire class.

#7. ATLANTA HAWKS (via NOLA) — Keaton Wagler | G | Illinois

• Measurements: 6’6”, 180

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 17.9 PTS | 5.1 REB | 4.2 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.4 BLK

  • 44.5 FG% | 39.7 3P% | 79.6 FT%

  • 37 Games | 33.9 MIN

Albert: The Atlanta Hawks are one of the hottest teams on the planet, with them making a scorching hot run late in the season all the way to the fifth seed in the playoffs. Who knows how things will pan out in the playoffs, but they have to be ecstatic about the future outlook of this squad in a post-Trae Young reality. If they were to land with the seventh pick in this loaded draft and end up with Keaton Wagler, you could easily see them becoming an Eastern Conference powerhouse in the near future.

The sell on Keaton Wagler is easy; we live in an age where skill, savvy, and intelligence are major tools NBA teams look for in players. Wagler has all of that in abundance. Wagler is a smooth 6’6” guard who just led the Fighting Illini to a Final Four appearance. He was the engine that made their dynamic offense run with his silky-smooth ball-handling, his dynamic shooting from outside, and his ability to touch the paint at a high level. Wagler is also a high-level passer with strong vision and anticipation. Although Wagler is not a supreme athlete, he is a master manipulator of driving angles, hesitations, tempos, and the spin move. When he gets to the rim, he has shown great flexibility and dexterity with both hands.

As great as the introduction of CJ McCollum into the starting lineup has been for Atlanta, it’s safe to say that he won’t be a major part of their future with his advanced age, especially 3-5 years down the line. Adding a highly intelligent guard with plus-size and shooting ability to this roster would be an incredibly ambitious move for their future.

#8. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES — Brayden Burries | G | Arizona

• Measurements: 6’4”, 205

• Year: Freshman (20)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 16.1 PTS | 4.9 REB | 2.4 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.2 BLK

  • 49.1 FG% | 39.1 3P% | 80.5 FT%

  • 39 Games | 29.8 MIN

Nathan: For now, the Memphis Grizzlies are operating with Ja Morant still at the helm at the point guard position. Even without him, Ty Jerome has been a vital and efficient piece for the Grizzlies since he was acquired, and Memphis has found other point guard options in the past. Although that position may be covered, every lead guard needs a running mate. Brayden Burries would benefit from coming into a situation where he doesn’t have to do everything at once. Burries is a certified bucket, capable off-ball shooter, and multi-positional defender in the backcourt. Burries proved to be an efficient pick-and-roll player for Arizona when he did take on larger chunks of the offense while sharing those touches with Jaden Bradley, so he’s already shown that he can operate alongside another ball-dominant guard. Burries is a great pick for a franchise that isn’t selecting near the top, and leaves optionality open with the rest of the roster, including later on in this draft.

#9. CHICAGO BULLS — Aday Mara | C | Michigan

• Measurements: 7’3”, 255

• Year: Junior (21)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 12.2 PTS | 6.8 REB | 2.5 AST | 0.3 STL | 2.6 BLK

  • 67.0 FG% | 30.0 3P% | 56.4 FT%

  • 39 Games | 23.3 MIN

Corey: With their first pick in this draft, Chicago grabs Spanish big man Aday Mara, who has had an impactful season manning the paint for Michigan, helping lead the Wolverines to a National Championship game. Among the bigs in this class, Mara offers the best intersection of offensive skill, feel, and rim deterrence with a 66 TS%, 19 AST%, and 12 BLK%. The Bulls appear headed for significant changes, moving on from Karnisovas and Eversley; in the middle of that uncertainty, Mara gives Chicago a legitimate two-way building block with high feel to grow alongside Matas Buzelis and Josh Giddey.

#10. MILWAUKEE BUCKS — Kingston Flemings | G | Houston

• Measurements: 6’4”, 190

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 16.1 PTS | 4.1 REB | 5.2 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 47.6 FG% | 38.7 3P% | 84.5 FT%

  • 37 Games | 31.7 MIN

Nick: The stacked point guard depth in this class all but guarantees that one of them will fall much farther than they would in a more normal draft. This time around, Kingston Flemings is the one who dropped, and the Milwaukee Bucks are the ones who reap the benefits. Flemings and Ryan Rollins would instantly form one of the best defensive backcourt tandems in the league, and Flemings would have plenty of room to continue to develop and expand his offensive game in Milwaukee. Flemings would theoretically fit well alongside Giannis in the seemingly unlikely event (at this point) that he sticks around, and he can grow into the primary engine as well if he’s fully thrust into the spotlight.

#11. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS — Yaxel Lendeborg | F | Michigan

• Measurements: 6’9”, 240

• Year: Senior (23)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 15.1 PTS | 6.9 REB | 3.3 AST | 1.2 STL | 1.2 BLK

  • 52.3 FG% | 38.3 3P% | 81.9 FT%

  • 39 Games | 30 MIN

Jam: Outside of the guys at the very top of the class (Dybantsa, Boozer, Wilson), there arguably isn’t a more versatile and dynamic frontcourt prospect than Yaxel Lendeborg. While leading Michigan to the national title game (perhaps they win the ship by the time this is out), Lendeborg has proven to evaluators that his NBA-style game translates from the mid-major level (UAB) to the highest level of Division I and should continue to do the same on an NBA floor. Lendeborg blends size, strength, and feel into an exciting pass-dribble-shoot skillset alongside defensive playmaking. With the Warriors desperately needing immediate contributors, especially in the frontcourt, this could be the perfect fit for all parties. Who says no to Lendeborg learning from Draymond Green?

#12. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (via LAC) — Koa Peat | F | Arizona

• Measurements: 6’8”, 235

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 14.1 PTS | 5.6 REB | 2.6 AST | 0.6 STL | 0.7 BLK

  • 52.8 FG% | 35 3P% | 62.3 FT%

  • 36 Games | 27.8 MIN

Metcalf: The Thunder are in a unique spot where they can afford to take really measured home run swings. Koa Peat is one of the most intriguing names to fill that description. The Thunder don’t have a ton of really physical forwards, and Peat would fill that vacancy almost immediately. He’s incredibly strong for a freshman and isn’t afraid of contact. He’s shown intriguing scoring versatility inside the arc, some great rebounding performances, and a ton of potential with his passing and defense. The issue, though, is that Peat has been incredibly inconsistent this year. He struggles to consistently do the little things that really drive winning. In the games he does execute those, he looks like a superstar. When he doesn’t, you forget he’s out there. Thankfully, he’d be going to an ideal spot to focus on that stuff and maximize his game. Peat has an Aaron Gordon-type of upside, as long as he commits to perfecting the non-sexy parts of the game.

#13. MIAMI HEAT — Labaron Philon | G | Alabama

• Measurements: 6’4”, 185

• Year: Sophomore (20)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 22 PTS | 3.5 REB | 5 AST | 1.2 STL | 0.2 BLK

  • 50.1 FG% | 39.9 3P% | 79.8 FT%

  • 33 Games | 30.9 MIN

Nathan: Labaron Philon fits in several NBA situations, but the Miami Heat spot in particular just feels right. Getting Philon at this spot in the draft would be excellent value for Miami, as he had one of the best lead guard seasons of any player in the country for Alabama. Philon, while lacking in the weight department a bit, still is a 6’4” guard that can generate paint touches seemingly at will. Philon is great at slithering into the paint, getting to a runner or patented step-back jumper, and can find open teammates out of a drive-and-kick scheme. Where Philon took the largest jump this season is as a pull-up three-point shooter, an area he struggled with during his freshman season. Philon’s three-level scoring chops, craft, creativity, and willingness to do all of the little things to help a team win paint the picture of a perfect guard option that Miami should invest in with its pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.

#14. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES (via ORL) — Morez Johnson Jr. | F | Michigan

• Measurements: 6’9”, 250

• Year: Sophomore (20)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 13.1 PTS | 7.3 REB | 1.2 AST | 0.7 STL | 1.1 BLK

  • 62.1 FG% | 34.3 3P% | 77.9 FT%

  • 39 Games | 25 MIN

Metcalf: After taking Burries at eight, the Grizzlies are in a fun spot to improve their frontcourt depth. There are a handful of names that could make sense here, but few are as intriguing as Morez Johnson. Johnson is one of the best defenders in the country with his ability to battle in the post, switch on the perimeter, and gobble up rebounds. He has the strength to deal with bigs and the agility to handle guards. On top of that, Johnson has one of the highest motors you could ask for. The biggest questions in his game come on offense, but we’ve already seen a ton of growth in a very short time frame. Johnson started shooting threes (on low volume) this year, and the foundation of his shot looks good. That, combined with his significant leap in free-throw shooting, makes his long-term upside more exciting. Johnson also has multiple years of experience playing next to 7-footers and hasn’t struggled to make a massive impact. The continued growth of Johnson’s offensive repertoire, combined with his rebounding and defensive versatility, would give the Grizzlies a ton of lineup versatility. He could fill the role that Brandon Clarke has struggled to consistently occupy due to injuries. Johnson could play the small ball five or play with Zach Edey to provide an absolute nightmare of a frontcourt for opponents to deal with every night.

#15. CHICAGO BULLS (via POR) — Karim Lopez | F | NZ Breakers

• Measurements: 6’8”, 220

• Year: 2007 Born (18)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 11.9 PTS | 6.1 REB | 1.9 AST | 1.2 STL | 1.0 BLK

  • 49.4 FG% | 32.2 3P% | 73.9 FT%

  • 30 Games | 25.6 MIN

Stephen: It feels like there is still some catching up to do with Karim Lopez. In a cycle where much of the attention has centered around college basketball, Lopez has quietly produced in the NBL—one of the more physical environments available to a prospect. At just 18 years old (turning 19 on April 12th), he has averaged 16.7 points, 8.6 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.7 steals, and 1.4 blocks on 50/33/72 splits. When you normalize that production against similarly-aged freshmen, the indicators stand out. Lopez would grade near the top of this class in both offensive and defensive rebounding rate, while also posting strong steal and block percentages relative to players like AJ Dybantsa, Nate Ament, and Koa Peat. That level of activity and impact on both ends is difficult to overlook.

At 6’7” and 225 pounds, Lopez already possesses an NBA-ready frame and plays with functional athleticism. He has 13 halfcourt dunks and consistently generates value in transition, but what stands out most is how comfortable he is operating through contact. That physical translation is not theoretical—it’s already happening. The shooting profile is still developing, but there are encouraging markers: nearly 46% on open catch-and-shoot threes and over 36% on spot-ups. He may not project as a primary creator, but his decision-making holds up, reflected in a 1.2 assist-to-turnover ratio that compares favorably with higher-usage peers like Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson. In a role that emphasizes energy, connectivity, and two-way play, Lopez fits cleanly alongside Aday Mara in Chicago.

#16. CHARLOTTE HORNETS — Nate Ament | F | Tennessee

• Measurements: 6’10”, 207

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 16.7 PTS | 6.3 REB | 2.3 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.6 BLK

  • 39.9 FG% | 33.3 3P% | 79.0 FT%

  • 35 Games | 29.7 MIN

Albert: The Charlotte Hornets have been an incredible story this year with what they’ve been able to accomplish. Currently the eighth seed in the East, the Hornets should prove to be a tough team to beat in the play-in and potentially in the playoffs. At this point in the draft and with the young roster they have, adding a player like Nate Ament and his sky-high potential seems like a smart move. Nate Ament is a jumbo wing standing at 6’10” who has some real wing skills.

Coming into college, many experts had concerns about his frame, but during his time in Tennessee, he has added a good amount of mass and has really worked on adding strength. He still has a long way to go, but it’s encouraging to see how much stronger he’s gotten in just one year. Before the season started, many had him potentially going in the top four or five, and he was widely considered the top talent after Boozer, Dybantsa, and Peterson. For the Hornets to grab a talent of his caliber at this point in the draft feels like a smart gamble, even if he’s going to need some time to develop before he’s ready to play a heavy role. Ament had a productive season where he averaged 16.7 points per game and 6.3 rebounds. His shooting from outside wasn’t great this season, but there are a lot of encouraging signs. He was a prolific outside shooter in high school; in college, he was good from the mid-range and good from the free-throw line on over seven attempts per game.

Ament is a bit of a lottery ticket, but his floor is still very strong with his size, shooting ability, and skill set. The Hornets are also good enough that they don’t need to rush him to contribute. Adding Ament to that young core should be a lot of fun and good for his development.

#17. CHARLOTTE HORNETS (via PHX) — Dailyn Swain | G/F | Texas

• Measurements: 6’8”, 220

• Year: Junior (20)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 17.3 PTS | 7.5 REB | 3.6 AST | 1.6 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 54.2 FG% | 34.4 3P% | 81.5 FT%

  • 36 Games | 32.8 MIN

Metcalf: Dailyn Swain had a phenomenal year at Texas and grew his offensive arsenal a ton. Swain would give the Hornets another dynamic, slashing wing who can collapse the defense at will. Swain showed great spatial awareness and manipulation of driving and finishing angles all season. He also proved to be a dynamic passer and improved as a spot-up shooter. The tricky part, though, will be whether or not he can maintain that level of offensive creation in a lesser role. As a tertiary creator, Swain could provide immense value to the Hornets, making life much easier for LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and Kon Knueppel. The most exciting part for the Hornets, though, would be Swain’s defensive impact. He took a step back on that end of the floor this year from what we’d seen at Xavier, but the hope is that it was a symptom of his massive spike in offensive creation responsibilities. Hopefully, with a reduced offensive load, Swain returns to the physical, dynamic defender we saw at Xavier.

#18. TORONTO RAPTORS — Bennett Stirtz | G | Iowa

• Measurements: 6’4”, 190

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 19.8 PTS | 2.6 REB | 4.4 AST | 1.4 STL | 0.2 BLK

  • 47.7 FG% | 35.8 3P% | 84.8 FT%

  • 37 Games | 37.8 MIN

Rucker: The Toronto Raptors have been one of the more pleasant surprises this year in the NBA as the team looks to secure a spot in the playoffs. Toronto continues to have a roster full of intriguing assets. There are two routes that seem to make a lot of sense here for Toronto. They could look to add some depth to the backcourt, or they could beef up the frontcourt. While the big man depth in this class could play perfectly into Toronto’s hands as some value could present itself, the idea of adding a high-feel sharpshooter also has some intrigue for the Raptors. Iowa senior Bennett Stirtz has the tools to be a great piece of the puzzle for this Raptors team. He’s a flamethrower of a floor spacer who plays the game with great poise and control. Stirtz’s shot-making ability would allow things to open up for the Raptors, making him an intriguing value selection here in the later portion of the first round.

#19. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (via PHI) — Cameron Carr | G | Baylor

• Measurements: 6’5”, 175

• Year: Sophomore (21)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 18.9 PTS | 5.8 REB | 2.6 AST | 0.9 STL | 1.3 BLK

  • 49.4 FG% | 37.4 3P% | 80.1 FT%

  • 34 Games | 33.6 MIN

Albert: The Oklahoma City Thunder are an absolute factory of young talent, but the truth is, they’re not going to be able to keep everyone. They have big contracts on their books moving forward, and some guys are going to be moved—which means it’s super important for them to continue to add young and affordable talent to the roster.

Adding a player like Cameron Carr is perfect for their situation and would also be incredible for him. Carr is a long, wiry wing with some electric outside scoring ability. After a quiet couple of years at Tennessee, Car really exploded for the Baylor Bears this season and really got to showcase his shooting scoring ability and some of the dynamic qualities he possesses on the defensive side of the ball. Carr averaged 18.9 points per game and 5.8 rebounds per game, and shooting splits of 49.4/37.4/80.1. Standing at 6’5” with a condor-like wingspan, Carr has the build and measurables that NBA teams are looking for in a complementary guard/wing prospect. Not only can Carr spread the floor with his outside shooting ability, but he’s also a good cutter who can be a dynamic lob-threat as well. Carr will initially bring a ton of value with what he can do off-ball, but there were some flashes with his on-ball scoring and passing as well. That’ll be something to monitor in the future. On the defensive side of the ball, he averaged over two stocks per game, and most of that came from leveraging his length and athletic ability. With more refinement, Carr could prove to be an absolute terror on the defensive side of the ball.

#20. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (via ATL) — Jayden Quaintance | C | Kentucky

• Measurements: 6’10”, 255

• Year: Sophomore (18)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 5.0 PTS | 5.0 REB | 0.5 AST | 0.5 STL | 0.8 BLK

  • 57.1 FG% | 0 3P% | 30.8 FT%

  • 4 Games | 16.8 MIN

Corey: The uncertainty surrounding Jayden Quaintance’s injury-plagued season contributes to his slide here, and the San Antonio Spurs are the beneficiaries–landing a prospect who could end up as the most impactful defender in this entire draft. Quaintance offers the rare ability to guard the perimeter and protect the rim at a high level, and he’ll still be just 18 years old on draft night—even after completing his second college season. The offense remains raw despite flashes of dribble creation and playmaking as a frosh, but the thought of Wemby and Quaintance sharing the floor together is genuinely frightening as a potentially historic defensive frontcourt for the modern era if he can stay healthy.

#21. DETROIT PISTONS (via MIN) — Amari Allen | F | Alabama

• Measurements: 6’8”, 205

• Year: Freshman (20)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 11.4 PTS | 6.9 REB | 3.1 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.7 BLK

  • 44.6 FG% | 34.1 3P% | 73.8 FT%

  • 32 Games | 28.2 MIN

Stephen: The Detroit Pistons have taken a real step forward this season, even as they’ve worked through stretches without Cade Cunningham. This is no longer a roster defined by glaring needs. Instead, it’s about reinforcing what already works. With that in mind, Detroit adds to its forward depth with Amari Allen—a player who fits the connective, role-driven identity they’ve built around Cunningham and Jalen Duren. Between Ausar Thompson, Isaiah Stewart, and Tobias Harris, the Pistons have leaned into players who bring defined strengths. Allen falls into that same mold.

Allen has shown himself to be an above-average playmaker for a wing/forward, posting a 2.3 assist-to-turnover ratio—ranking ahead of names like AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, Cameron Boozer, and Koa Peat. He rebounds well for his position and brings consistent defensive value, giving him multiple pathways to contribute without needing high usage. If Tobias Harris moves on, Allen provides a natural succession option. Even if he doesn’t, Allen projects as a player who can keep the ball moving, defend across positions, and fit cleanly into Detroit’s current structure.

#22. ATLANTA HAWKS (via CLE) — Motiejus Krivas | C | Arizona

• Measurements: 7’2”, 260

• Year: Junior (21)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 10.4 PTS | 8.2 REB | 1.1 AST | 0.7 STL | 1.9 BLK

  • 56.9 FG% | 30.8 3P% | 78 FT%

  • 39 Games | 25.4 MIN

Jam: Motiejus Krivas really helped solidify himself as a first round prospect during Arizona’s Final Four run. Listed at 7’2” and 260 pounds, he’s a massive paint presence on both ends of the floor who aligns with the play finishing/shot-blocking NBA big archetype. If needed, he can score in the post with both hands and eat on switches. Although Krivas most likely will be a strict drop big, he’s still a legitimate rim protector that teams can rely on. He can play alongside Okongwu or be the primary big on the floor. Additionally, he’ll serve as an excellent screen and lob target in the two-man game with Jalen Johnson. The early success of other recent giant bigs like Clingan, Edey, Kalkbrenner, etc., should prove to be a beneficial roadmap for Krivas’s potential impact.

#23. PHILADELPHIA 76ers (via HOU) — Thomas Haugh | F | Florida

• Measurements: 6’9”, 215

• Year: Junior (22)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 17.1 PTS | 6.1 REB | 2.1 AST | 1.1 STL | 1.0 BLK

  • 46.0 FG% | 32.6 3P% | 77.4 FT%

  • 34 Games | 33.4 MIN

Nathan: The Philadelphia 76ers quietly need help everywhere outside of the starting backcourt. Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe are building blocks regardless of who else is on the roster, but there’s always uncertainty from the likes of Joel Embiid and Paul George in terms of health. The power forward position was a patchwork situation this year, and the 76ers lack depth on the wing from true perimeter options that can guard multiple positions. Thomas Haugh could fill several needs as a 3-4 who can guard both forward spots and is tenacious on that end of the floor. Haugh plays incredibly hard every possession, crashes the glass on both ends, and can hold his own in multiple defensive coverages. His offensive skill set is ideal for a play finisher at the next level, as he’s become a decent three-point shooter for his size while also having the ability to attack closeouts and draw fouls against mismatches from the perimeter. Haugh’s game just feels like it’s made for a decade-long career in the NBA, so getting a player at this point in the draft who can cover several gaps feels like great value for Philadelphia.

#24. DENVER NUGGETS — Dame Sarr | G | Duke

• Measurements: 6’8”, 190

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 6.4 PTS | 3.8 REB | 1.1 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.4 BLK

  • 40.4 FG% | 32.3 3P% | 53.2 FT%

  • 38 Games | 23.6 MIN

Nick: When you have Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray running the show, it’s hard to go wrong with a prospect who projects as an elite defender and complementary offensive player. Enter Dame Sarr, whose combination of size at 6’8”, defensive instincts, and athletic tools makes him arguably the most dangerous point-of-attack defender in this draft class. Sarr’s offensive game still needs work, but his connective passing and cutting feel will give him time to continue to develop as a shooter while earning his playing time as a defensive force. It’s hard to imagine a much better mentor for Sarr than Aaron Gordon; pairing the two of them together on defense will crank the chaos up to 11 in the best possible way.

#25. NEW YORK KNICKS — Zuby Ejiofor | F | St. John’s

• Measurements: 6’9”, 245

• Year: Senior (21)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 16.3 PTS | 7.3 REB | 3.5 AST | 1.2 STL | 2.1 BLK

  • 53.6 FG% | 30.5 3P% | 71.8 FT%

  • 37 Games | 30.0 MIN

Albert: What a weird season for the Knicks. With huge expectations on their shoulders, much of the fanbase would characterize this season as a bit uneven. There have been some great highs, with them winning the 2026 NBA Cup, but there are still some question marks about this team’s ceiling and the offensive chemistry between their two headliners, Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns.

The Knicks are still a force to be reckoned with, and it would shock no one if they represented the East in the NBA Finals, but it does feel like they need to continue to add versatile defenders and some toughness to the current roster. With the defensive holes they have whenever they have to play both Brunson and Towns on the floor together, it’s imperative for them to stock the roster with versatile defenders all over the court. Adding a player like Zuby Ejiofor would be perfect for that. Ejiofor is a ridiculously fluid mover for a man of his size at 6’9”.

Not only does he move well, but he also plays with an unwavering commitment to defense and the mentality of a true bully. He backs down to absolutely no one, and adding a player with his skillset and mentality would be a welcome addition to this squad. Ejiofor won’t likely be a dynamic scorer on the next level, but if he can continue to extend his range, leverage more of his passing ability, and play with the same motor, he will be a very valuable NBA player. Add in the fact that he’s a beast on the boards, and he’ll fit in with the front line of Towns and Robinson, who also love dominating the glass.

#26. LOS ANGELES LAKERS — Tarris Reed Jr. | C | UConn

• Measurements: 6’11”, 265

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 14.8 PTS | 8.8 REB | 2.4 AST | 0.9 STL | 2 BLK

  • 61.7 FG% | 0 3P% | 60.8 FT%

  • 34 Games | 27.1 MIN

Jam: There might not be another prospect who has helped their stock more than Tarris Reed Jr. in recent weeks. His monster NCAA Tournament has UConn in the title game (potentially champions by the time this is out). He’s showcased his terrific combination of power, finesse, and passing feel on top of a frame that has clearly been NBA-ready for the last few years. Ideally, Luka gets a vertically explosive big man that can work the two-man game with him, and that’s not quite Reed’s game. However, Reed is still a forceful rim finisher and capable lob threat who brings some modern big man elements that will help him to excel with Luka and Reaves long-term (DHOs, short rolls). Reed is an immediate rotation big with the starting upside that the Lakers desire.

#27. BOSTON CELTICS — Braylon Mullins | G | UConn

• Measurements: 6’6”, 196

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 12 PTS | 3.4 REB | 1.4 AST | 1 STL | 0.6 BLK

  • 43 FG% | 33.7 3P% | 88.9 FT%

  • 32 Games | 28 MIN

Rucker: The Boston Celtics have been looking like one of the more dangerous teams in the league, especially with the impressive return of superstar Jayson Tatum. Boston has done a sensational job over recent years when it comes to their player development department. The Celtics could probably use some beef in the frontcourt, and this looks to be a class in which the roster can find a nice addition due to the depth at this time. However, the Celtics have also been a team that trusts their board and takes advantage of the value. UConn freshman Braylon Mullins has had a bit of a rollercoaster of a season when it comes to Draft stock. Mullins is a sharpshooting movement weapon who can get red hot from well beyond the three-point line. There’s a lot more versatility to his game than has been on full display this year at UConn. He’s going to be one of the top prospects to monitor throughout the predraft process, as scouts are expecting his stock to heat up. For now, Boston adds an intriguing asset to the mix, as Mullins could be a home run selection at this point in the first round.

#28. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (via DET) — Christian Anderson | G | Texas Tech

• Measurements: 6’3”, 188

• Year: Sophomore (20)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 18.5 PTS | 3.6 REB | 7.4 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.2 BLK

  • 47.2 FG% | 41.5 3P% | 80.5 FT%

  • 33 Games | 38.4 MIN

Metcalf: The last few weeks of the regular season have shown an ugly light on the lack of on-ball creation on this Timberwolves roster, especially without Anthony Edwards. The expectation is that Ayo Dosunmu re-signs this offseason; even then, though, the Timberwolves need additional on-ball creation and shooting help. Few in the country were better at that than Christian Anderson this season. Anderson was lethal out of the pick-and-roll and was one of the best shooters in the country. He struggles to create his own shot in isolation, but he wouldn’t need to be given the superb pick-and-roll partners he’d be playing with. Additionally, Anderson is very comfortable playing off the ball as he did throughout his entire freshman season, so the fit next to the established creators on the team wouldn’t be an unnatural one. Anderson will likely get punished on defense given his size, but he at least works hard and doesn’t generally struggle with positioning issues. The biggest sell, though, is his combination of pick-and-roll creation, shooting, and offense.

#29. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS (via SAS) — Hannes Steinbach | F/C | Washington

• Measurements: 6’11”, 220

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 18.5 PTS | 11.8 REB | 1.6 AST | 1.1 STL | 1.2 BLK

  • 57.7 FG% | 34.0 3P% | 75.9 FT%

  • 30 Games | 34.6 MIN

Nathan: No one really knows what may or may not happen with the Cleveland Cavaliers, depending on the outcome of this season. If Cleveland loses early on in the playoffs, there could be more drastic changes ahead for this roster. Even if the Cavs bow out in respectable fashion, there have been rumors for quite a while that Jarrett Allen and others in the frontcourt could be on the trade block to address other needs on the roster. Hannes Steinbach, at this point in the draft, would be a level of insurance that most teams would dream of finding at this spot in the first round. Steinbach possesses great size for a forward, is arguably the best rebounding prospect in this class, and has shown flashes of a more well-rounded offensive skill set than meets the eye in terms of attacking mismatches off the bounce and utilizing his combination of strength and footwork to create scoring opportunities around the basket. If Steinbach’s jump shot continues improving as he develops in the league, there’s a real chance he returns lottery-level value down the road, meaning the Cavaliers would land an absolute steal here with the 29th pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.

#30. DALLAS MAVERICKS (via OKC) — Joshua Jefferson | F | Iowa State

• Measurements: 6’9”, 240

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 16.4 PTS | 7.4 REB | 4.8 AST | 1.6 STL | 0.8 BLK

  • 47.1 FG% | 34.5 3P% | 70.0 FT%

  • 35 Games | 30.9 MIN

Stephen: Wrapping up the first round is Joshua Jefferson, who was in the middle of an outstanding season before a sprained ankle cut his March short. For much of the year, Jefferson played like one of the most impactful players in college basketball, averaging 16.4 points, 7.4 rebounds, 4.8 assists, 1.6 steals, and 0.8 blocks. One of the more important developments was his shooting—nearly 35% from three on 5.9 attempts per 100 possessions—adding another layer to an already well-rounded profile.

Jefferson’s two-way presence fits cleanly in Dallas. He was one of just 21 players in college basketball to post both a steal rate and block rate above 3%, while also carrying a 27.7 assist percentage and strong rebounding numbers. That combination points to a player who can impact the game across phases—defensively, on the glass, and as a connective passer. Slotting him alongside Cooper Flagg and Dereck Lively gives Dallas another frontcourt piece who can keep the ball moving, cover ground defensively, and scale within multiple lineup configurations.

#31. NEW YORK KNICKS (via WAS) — Isaiah Evans | G | Duke

• Measurements: 6’6”, 180

• Year: Sophomore (20)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 15.0 PTS | 3.2 REB | 1.3 AST | 0.7 STL | 0.7 BLK

  • 43.3 FG% | 36.1 3P% | 86.0 FT%

  • 38 Games | 28.3 MIN

#32. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES (via IND) — Chris Cenac Jr. | F/C | Houston

• Measurements: 6’11”, 240

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 9.5 PTS | 7.9 REB | 0.7 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.5 BLK

  • 48.5 FG% | 33.3 3P% | 62.1 FT%

  • 37 Games | 24.8 MIN

#33. BROOKLYN NETS — Tounde Yessoufou | G | Baylor

• Measurements: 6’5”, 215

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 17.8 PTS | 5.9 REB | 1.6 AST | 2 STL | 0.6 BLK

  • 46.5 FG% | 29.3 3P% | 74.6 FT%

  • 34 Games | 32.5 MIN

#34. SACRAMENTO KINGS — Meleek Thomas | G | Arkansas

• Measurements: 6’5”, 185

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 15.6 PTS | 3.8 REB | 2.5 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.2 BLK

  • 43.3 FG% | 41.6 3P% | 84.3 FT%

  • 37 Games | 30.5 MIN

#35. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (via UTA) — Ivan Kharchenkov | F | Arizona

• Measurements: 6’7”, 220

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 10.4 PTS | 4.3 REB | 2.3 AST | 1.4 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 49.2 FG% | 31.7 3P% | 72.3 FT%

  • 39 Games | 28.3 MIN

#36. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (via DAL) — Billy Richmond III | G/F | Arkansas

• Measurements: 6’6”, 205

• Year: Sophomore (19)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 11.2 PTS | 4.3 REB | 2.0 AST | 1.1 STL | 0.8 BLK

  • 56.3 FG% | 25.9 3P% | 78.4 FT%

  • 37 Games | 27.6 MIN

#37. CHICAGO BULLS (via NOLA) — Juke Harris | G | Wake Forest

• Measurements: 6’7”, 200

• Year: Sophomore (20)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 21.4 PTS | 6.5 REB | 1.9 AST | 1.3 STL | 0.2 BLK

  • 44.4 FG% | 33.2 3P% | 78.3 FT%

  • 35 Games | 35.3 MIN

#38. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS (via MEM) — Flory Bidunga | C | Kansas

• Measurements: 6’10”, 235

• Year: Sophomore (20)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 13.3 PTS | 9 REB | 1.5 AST | 0.7 STL | 2.6 BLK

  • 64.0 FG% | 0 3P% | 65.4 FT%

  • 35 Games | 31.5 MIN

#39. HOUSTON ROCKETS (via CHI) — Allen Graves | F | Santa Clara

• Measurements: 6’9”, 225

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 11.8 PTS | 6.5 REB | 1.8 AST | 1.9 STL | 0.9 BLK

  • 51.2 FG% | 41.3 3P% | 75.0 FT%

  • 35 Games | 22.7 MIN

#40. BOSTON CELTICS (via MIL) — Henri Veesaar | C | North Carolina

• Measurements: 7’0”, 225

• Year: Junior (22)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 17 PTS | 8.7 REB | 2.1 AST | 0.6 STL | 1.2 BLK

  • 60.8 FG% | 42.6 3P% | 61.5 FT%

  • 31 Games | 31.3 MIN

#41. MIAMI HEAT (via GSW) — Patrick Ngongba II | C | Duke

• Measurements: 6’11”, 250

• Year: Sophomore (20)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 10.1 PTS | 5.8 REB | 2.0 AST | 0.6 STL | 1.1 BLK

  • 60.6 FG% | 25.8 3P% | 66.4 FT%

  • 32 Games | 21.9 MIN

#42. BROOKLYN NETS (via LAC) — JT Toppin | F | Texas Tech

• Measurements: 6’9”, 230

• Year: Junior (20)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 21.8 PTS | 10.8 REB | 2.1 AST | 1.4 STL | 1.7 BLK

  • 54.8 FG% | 28.1 3P% | 57.9 FT%

  • 25 Games | 34.9 MIN

#43. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (via POR) — Tyler Tanner | G | Vanderbilt

• Measurements: 6’0”, 173

• Year: Sophomore (20)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 19.5 PTS | 3.6 REB | 5.1 AST | 2.4 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 48.5 FG% | 36.8 3P% | 85.3 FT%

  • 36 Games | 33.5 MIN

#44. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (via MIA) — Milan Momcilovic | F | Iowa State

• Measurements: 6’8”, 225

• Year: Junior (21)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 16.9 PTS | 3.1 REB | 1.0 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.2 BLK

  • 50.6 FG% | 48.6 3P% | 87.8 FT%

  • 37 Games | 30.5 MIN

#45. ORLANDO MAGIC — Ebuka Okorie | G | Stanford

• Measurements: 6’2”, 185

• Year: Freshman (18)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 23.2 PTS | 3.6 REB | 3.6 AST | 1.6 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 46.5 FG% | 35.4 3P% | 83.2 FT%

  • 31 Games | 35.1 MIN

#46. SACRAMENTO KINGS (via CHA) — Alex Karaban | F | UConn

• Measurements: 6’8”, 230

• Year: Senior (23)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 13.1 PTS | 5.1 REB | 2.4 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.8 BLK

  • 46.8 FG% | 37.8 3P% | 86.4 FT%

  • 39 Games | 34.1 MIN

#47. DALLAS MAVERICKS (via PHX) — Ryan Conwell | G | Louisville

• Measurements: 6’4”, 215

• Year: Senior (21)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 18.8 PTS | 4.8 REB | 2.7 AST | 1.1 STL | 0.2 BLK

  • 40.8 FG% | 34.5 3P% | 83.2 FT%

  • 34 Games | 30.9 MIN

#48. PHOENIX SUNS (via PHI) — Braden Smith | G | Purdue

• Measurements: 6’0”, 170

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 14.3 PTS | 3.5 REB | 8.8 AST | 1.7 STL | 0.2 BLK

  • 44.0 FG% | 36.2 3P% | 82.5 FT%

  • 39 Games | 34.5 MIN

#49. TORONTO RAPTORS — Rueben Chinyelu | C | Florida

• Measurements: 6’10”, 265

• Year: Junior (22)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 10.9 PTS | 11.2 REB | 0.7 AST | 0.8 STL | 1.0 BLK

  • 58.6 FG% | 0 3P% | 69.5 FT%

  • 35 Games | 24.4 MIN

#50. DENVER NUGGETS (via ATL) — Ugonna Onyenso | C | Virginia

• Measurements: 7’0”, 245

• Year: Senior (21)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 6.5 PTS | 4.9 REB | 0.6 AST | 0.6 STL | 2.9 BLK

  • 56.8 FG% | 27.8 3P% | 72.7 FT%

  • 36 Games | 18.6 MIN

#51. WASHINGTON WIZARDS (via MIN) — Alex Condon | C | Florida

• Measurements: 6’11”, 236

• Year: Junior (21)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 15.1 PTS | 7.5 REB | 3.6 AST | 0.7 STL | 1.4 BLK

  • 55.6 FG% | 17.0 3P% | 64.9 FT%

  • 34 Games | 30.6 MIN

#52. HOUSTON ROCKETS — Emanuel Sharp | G | Houston

• Measurements: 6’3”, 205

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 15.5 PTS | 3.0 REB | 1.7 AST | 1.2 STL | 0.1 BLK

  • 41.3 FG% | 37.2 3P% | 89.1 FT%

  • 37 Games | 29.3 MIN

#53. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS (via CLE) — Tyler Nickel | F | Vanderbilt

• Measurements: 6’7”, 220

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 13.5 PTS | 3.3 REB | 1.2 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.5 BLK

  • 44.5 FG% | 40.0 3P% | 84.7 FT%

  • 36 Games | 30.6 MIN

#54. CHICAGO BULLS (via DEN) — Jaden Bradley | G | Arizona

• Measurements: 6’3”, 200

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 13.3 PTS | 3.4 REB | 4.4 AST | 1.4 STL | 0.1 BLK

  • 46.3 FG% | 39.4 3P% | 80.9 FT%

  • 39 Games | 30.6 MIN

#55. NEW YORK KNICKS — Zvonimir Ivisic | C | Illinois

• Measurements: 7’2”, 245

• Year: Junior (22)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 6.4 PTS | 4.5 REB | 0.3 AST | 0.2 STL | 1.9 BLK

  • 50.9 FG% | 28 3P% | 69.2 FT%

  • 37 Games | 17.2 MIN

#56. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS (via LAL) — Lamar Wilkerson | G | Indiana

• Measurements: 6’6”, 205

• Year: Senior (24)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 20.9 PTS | 3.5 REB | 2.4 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.2 BLK

  • 46.3 FG% | 37.8 3P% | 88.8 FT%

  • 32 Games | 34.1 MIN

#57. ATLANTA HAWKS (via BOS) — Pryce Sandfort | F | Nebraska

• Measurements: 6’7”, 210

• Year: Junior (21)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 18.1 PTS | 4.8 REB | 2.0 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 47.9 FG% | 41.6 3P% | 85.5 FT%

  • 35 Games | 33.6 MIN

#58. NEW ORLEANS PELICANS (via DET) — Sergio De Larrea | G | Valencia Basket

• Measurements: 6’6”, 200

• Year: 2005 Born (20)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 6.7 PTS | 2.0 REB | 2.8 AST | 0.5 STL | 0.2 BLK

  • 45.1 FG% | 41.3 3P% | 80.0 FT%

  • 50 Games | 13.9 MIN

#59. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (via SAS) — Dillon Mitchell | F | St. John’s

• Measurements: 6’8”, 210

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 8.3 PTS | 7.0 REB | 3.0 AST | 1.3 STL | 0.7 BLK

  • 55.9 FG% | 6.7 3P% | 49.4 FT%

  • 37 Games | 28.2 MIN

#60. WASHINGTON WIZARDS (via OKC) — Luigi Suigo | C | Mega

• Measurements: 7’2”, 250

• Year: 2007 Born (19)

• Stats (as of 4/6/26):

  • 8.8 PTS | 5.1 REB | 0.8 AST | 0.5 STL | 1.0 BLK

  • 56.4 FG% | 29.8 3P% | 65.5 FT%

  • 25 Games | 18.9 MIN

Share No Ceilings

Let’s get down to business.

March is an exciting time for all basketball fans. The madness is so close that we can almost taste it, and Selection Sunday is almost here.

This also proves to be one of the more difficult mock drafts to put together. This class has so much firepower at the top of the draft; there’s no denying that. However, there’s also an eye-opening amount of depth as of right now.

Scouts and evaluators will be paying close attention to the predraft process more than ever this year. The withdrawal deadline is going to be even more important than in previous seasons, as we wait to see which players keep their names in the 2026 NBA Draft.

For now, we decided to go ahead and put together a mock draft as if all of these players were staying in the draft for now. For the sickos out there, you might see some names in certain spots and say, “well, they probably wouldn’t stay in the draft, then.”

That is probably true. But the deadline can also see some stock variance, as teams could suddenly be surprised that a player is keeping their name in.

For now, let’s go over the rules for the rookies joining us.

• Our entire No Ceilings team gets together for a War Room style mock draft.

• Pick by pick, we go around the room and nominate players we would each consider for every selection.

• Once we debrief (for way too long), it comes down to a vote.

• These are the results, with written breakdowns for all 30 picks in the first round.

• Draft order is by the standings from Sunday, March 8th.

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#1. SACRAMENTO KINGS — Cameron Boozer | F | Duke

• Profile: 6’9”, 250

• Year: Freshman (18)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 22.7 PTS | 10.2 REB | 4.1 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.5 BLK

  • 58.3 FG% | 40.7 3P% | 78.0 FT%

  • 31 Games | 32.6 MIN

Nick: As the Sacramento Kings limp to the end of a directionless season, the team is desperately hoping for some stability. While Darryn Peterson got some votes here, the No Ceilings crew ultimately opted for Duke’s destroyer of worlds, Cam Boozer. His relentless scoring around the basket, sensational passing ability, and shooting and defensive flashes were simply too much for the Kings to pass up here. Boozer fits wonderfully alongside the best story of the season in Sacramento: their two young bigs, Maxime Raynaud and Dylan Cardwell. The interior passing between Boozer and Raynaud would be something to watch out for next season, and Boozer and Cardwell patrolling the paint will be a difficult dilemma for opposing offenses to figure out.

#2. INDIANA PACERS — Darryn Peterson | G | Kansas

• Profile: 6’6”, 205

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 19.9 PTS | 4.2 REB | 1.8 AST | 1.4 STL | 0.5 BLK

  • 45.7 FG% | 38.7 3P% | 81.6 FT%

  • 20 Games | 28.0 MIN

Rucker: Pacers fans are hoping that this season will be an incredibly conveniently timed gap year when it comes to the foreseeable future. Fresh off an appearance in the NBA Finals, this Pacers team is quickly loading up to be one of the top bounce-back teams in the league for the upcoming season. Indiana will just be hoping that they are keeping their selection after the lottery, as protections will keep it with the Pacers as long as it lands in the Top 4. In other years, you could argue that landing the 2nd pick usually makes the decision “easier.” But with a class like this one, it’s going to be a challenge for multiple teams at the top. The Pacers have a roster that is so fascinating to pair with any of the top prospects in this class. But a future backcourt pairing of Tyrese Haliburton and Darryn Peterson is simply too juicy to pass up. Peterson would be a dangerous running mate with Haliburton, giving the Pacers another bucket-getting machine with tremendous two-way upside. Teams will do plenty of homework near the top, as all of the options are wide-open, but the ceiling of this team could go into another stratosphere with a duo of Hali and Peterson.

#3. BROOKLYN NETS — AJ Dybantsa | F | BYU

• Profile: 6’9”, 210

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 24.7 PTS | 6.7 REB | 3.8 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.4 BLK

  • 51.2 FG% | 33.9 3P% | 75.3 FT%

  • 31 Games | 34.2 MIN

Maxwell: The Brooklyn Nets get one hell of a consolation prize here with AJ Dybantsa falling to the third pick. The 6’9” freshman from BYU is a powerhouse with a good enough handle to get to his spots. He’s an above-the-rim athlete and efficient finisher, a prolific foul-drawer, an awesome mid-range shooter, and he’s shown off an ability to pull-up from three. Where Dybantsa has moved the needle the most this year is with his playmaking for others. It’s not just that he’s seeing the floor better now, but it’s the fact that he’s also using head and eye manipulation to further open up his teammates. His scoring prowess and improved craft make him a potential franchise-changer. His shooting off the catch and defensive effort need work, but those shortcomings are well worth the swing given his massive offensive ceiling.

#4. WASHINGTON WIZARDS — Caleb Wilson | F | North Carolina

• Profile: 6’10”, 215

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 19.8 PTS | 9.4 REB | 2.7 AST | 1.5 STL | 1.4 BLK

  • 57.8 FG% | 25.9 3P% | 71.3 FT%

  • 24 Games | 31.3 MIN

Jam: The Wizards finish outside of the Top 3, but still land arguably both the best two-way and highest upside prospect in the class in Caleb Wilson. Despite the injuries to both hands (fracture on his left hand followed by a broken right thumb), this would be an easy selection for the Wizards that would both raise the floor and ceiling for a team that likely will have playoff/play-in expectations next season.

At 6’10”, Wilson is an explosive and twitchy athlete with shotmaking upside and an outstanding motor that will allow him to instantly excel as a playfinisher, especially in the two-man game with Trae Young and the rest of their dynamic young perimeter players (George, Johnson, Carrington, etc.). All of the tools are there for Wilson to become an All-NBA defender and form a terrifying defensive frontcourt alongside Anthony Davis, Alex Sarr, and Bilal Coulibaly.

Washington offers an environment that should allow Wilson the opportunity to reach his potential without needing too much from him right away. The mix of established stars (Young and A.D.) and a talented young core with a potential superstar in Wilson in the mix should have their fanbase salivating.

#5. UTAH JAZZ — Keaton Wagler | G | Illinois

• Profile: 6’6”, 180

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 17.9 PTS | 4.9 REB | 4.3 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 44.7 FG% | 41.0 3P% | 80.7 FT%

  • 31 Games | 33.5 MIN

Metcalf: Keaton Wagler has been one of the biggest surprises in college basketball this year and would be a tremendous fit and swing for the Jazz at this spot. With the emergence of Keyonte George this year, taking a guard this early may seem a bit odd. However, having numerous on-ball initiators is never a bad thing. Wagler has been one of the most dynamic on-ball creators, shooters, and playmakers in the country, but he’s also been highly successful playing off the ball. Wagler’s malleability would allow him to both complement and lessen the burden of George, while also being able to play alongside Isaiah Collier. The biggest concerns with Wagler are his athleticism and defense. He’s going to get targeted and picked on early. However, the Jazz have the infrastructure, when healthy, to insulate those issues as he continues his physical development. Wagler has plus positional size and would add a lot more offensive juice to Utah’s backcourt.

#6. ATLANTA HAWKS (via NOLA) — Kingston Flemings | G | Houston

• Profile: 6’4”, 190

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 16.5 PTS | 3.9 REB | 5.4 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.4 BLK

  • 48.3 FG% | 37.6 3P% | 84.8 FT%

  • 31 Games | 31.7 MIN

Nathan: The Atlanta Hawks have a clear hole at point guard after moving on from long-time franchise guard Trae Young. Nickeil Alexander-Walker and CJ McCollum have done a nice job patching up the position to maximize the team’s playoff chances alongside Jalen Johnson. But with the number of lead guards available at the top of the 2026 draft who are poised to make significant short and long-term impacts, Kingston Flemings is the name that makes the most sense for the Hawks. He’s a blur at 6’4” who can create his own shot, set up his teammates, and play real defense at the point of attack. He blends scoring craft and playmaking versatility in a package that is nowhere near a sinkhole of points defensively. Flemings would add to this team’s identity of playing transition basketball while also looking to get steals and make plays on the ball defensively.

#7. DALLAS MAVERICKS — Mikel Brown Jr. | G | Louisville

• Profile: 6’5”, 190

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 18.2 PTS | 3.3 REB | 4.7 AST | 1.2 STL | 0.1 BLK

  • 41.0 FG% | 34.4 3P% | 84.4 FT%

  • 21 Games | 29 MIN

Albert: If Mikel Brown Jr. is the choice here at pick #7 for the Dallas Mavericks, they would instantly become one of the most exciting young cores in the league. We don’t need to wax poetic on the greatness of Cooper Flagg, and for the record, I’d take Flagg #1 if he were in this class. With a generational superstar in Flagg locked in for the future, adding a running mate in Mikel Brown Jr. just takes the potential of this team to a whole new level. In Brown, the Mavs would be getting a bouncy lead guard with great positional size and versatility. He’s comfortable on the ball creating for himself and for others, but the beauty in his game is his ability to also play without it. Being an off-ball shooter who can space the floor and hit shots for you off the catch and off movement. Brown has shown improvement in his ability to finish around the rim as he’s shooting 61.7% at the rim according to Synergy Sports. On the season, Brown is shooting 34.4% from three on 7.6 attempts per game, but in conference play, he shot 38.1% on 8.4 attempts per game or 15.5 attempts per 100 possessions. That’s serious volume and a real jump in efficiency. Brown would be a tailor-made fit next to Cooper Flagg and another giant leap in the right direction for the franchise.

#8. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES — Darius Acuff Jr. | G | Arkansas

• Profile: 6’3”, 190

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 22.2 PTS | 3.0 REB | 6.4 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.4 BLK

  • 49.3 FG% | 43.7 3P% | 79.4 FT%

  • 30 Games | 34.7 MIN

Stephen: In drafting Darius Acuff Jr., the Grizzlies are selecting someone who could be the best point guard in this class–and they’re getting him at #8. So there is some value in getting him. On top of that, this team is getting someone who led the SEC in scoring and assists, while also shooting over 42% from deep on almost nine attempts per 100 possessions. While Darius is one of the few guards in this class who does not require a screen to score, he could do nasty work in pick-and-roll looks with Aldama and Edey. Playing off of others would be no problem for him either, given that a large portion of his threes are assisted. The big issue with Acuff has been his defense. With the Grizzlies, he likely won’t be required to carry the same usage, which gives him another place to expend some energy. With the past couple of seasons giving question to how long Ja Morant could be with the team, Darius could also serve as a long-term bet as a starter while still being able to contribute in a situation with Ja still on the squad.

#9. CHICAGO BULLS — Brayden Burries | G | Arizona

• Profile: 6’4”, 205

• Year: Freshman (20)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 16.0 PTS | 5.0 REB | 2.6 AST | 1.6 STL | 0.2 BLK

  • 49.7 FG% | 37.0 3P% | 78.9 FT%

  • 31 Games | 29.6 MIN

Corey: The Chicago Bulls have finally committed to a real roster overhaul, looking to escape the purgatory of NBA mediocrity. Still, this is a team that knows how they want to play (FAST!), despite the dearth of NBA-level talent currently on the roster. In Arizona freshman Brayden Burries, Chicago gets a strong, physical two-way combo guard who fits Billy Donovan’s system to a T. Burries loves to push pace and play in transition, can get downhill in the halfcourt, spaces the floor adequately, and makes sound decisions with the ball. He slots in nicely next to Josh Giddey in the backcourt, keeps Chicago big at both guard spots, and gives the Bulls a genuine long-term building block as they begin to officially retool.

#10. MILWAUKEE BUCKS — Labaron Philon | G | Alabama

• Profile: 6’4”, 185

• Year: Sophomore (20)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 21.5 PTS | 3.2 REB | 4.8 AST | 1.2 STL | 0.2 BLK

  • 50.7 FG% | 38.9 3P% | 78.5 FT%

  • 29 Games | 30.2 MIN

Nick: While there are plenty of questions about the Milwaukee Bucks going forward, Labaron Philon can answer quite a few of them. The sophomore guard has shown real scoring punch this season and has grown leaps and bounds as a shooter; he and Ryan Rollins up front would instantly become one of the best point-of-attack duos defensively in the NBA, and Philon’s ability to attack the basket would be a huge plus for a team that ranks near the bottom of the league (27th) in two-point attempts even with Giannis in the fold.

#11. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS — Morez Johnson Jr. | F | Michigan

• Profile: 6’9”, 250

• Year: Sophomore (20)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 13.7 PTS | 7.4 REB | 1.1 AST | 0.7 STL | 1.1 BLK

  • 64.3 FG% | 41.7 3P% | 78.3 FT%

  • 31 Games | 24.8 MIN

Metcalf: With most of the top guards/initiators gone at this point, it makes a lot of sense for the Trail Blazers to double down with a guy who is a tremendous defender, rebounder, and has great physical tools. They have a type. Johnson has been one of the most effective and versatile defenders at his position all season. Putting him alongside Donovan Clingan, Toumani Camara, Jrue Holiday, and Deni Avdija would produce incredible defensive rotations. Johnson isn’t just a defender, though. He’s still primarily an interior finisher, but he’s shown real growth and promise as a shooter and passer. He’s likely never going to be a guy you give the ball to and ask him to create his own shot, but we’ve seen how much the game has slowed down for him in just one year and how much his processing is improving. From the jump, Johnson brings an NBA-ready body with a few elite skills to the table.

#12. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (via LAC) — Thomas Haugh | F | Florida

• Profile: 6’9”, 215

• Year: Junior (22)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 17.2 PTS | 6.1 REB | 2.0 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.9 BLK

  • 47.1 FG% | 34.4 3P% | 75.6 FT%

  • 30 Games | 33.4 MIN

Albert: Thomas Haugh is the type of player that every team in the league would welcome into their locker room. Haugh is a 6’9” forward who can contribute in a positive way all across your front line. Haugh’s true superpower is his non-stop motor. He only knows how to play hard, and he has no ego when he’s on the floor. As the leading man for the defending champs, Haugh has taken on a larger offensive role. He’s almost doubled his scoring from last year. Haugh doesn’t look like he’s ever going to be an elite shooter, but if he can hover around the 34-36% mark for his career, that’ll be plenty good considering everything else he brings to the floor. Haugh is a dynamic defender who can guard multiple positions; he’s also tough on the boards and is a blur in transition. Haugh may be viewed simply as an energy guy, but he brings a ton of intangibles and has shown real growth during his college career, warranting a lottery selection.

#13. CHARLOTTE HORNETS — Yaxel Lendeborg | F | Michigan

• Profile: 6’9”, 240

• Year: Senior (23)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 14.7 PTS | 7.2 REB | 3.2 AST | 1.2 STL | 1.4 BLK

  • 50.8 FG% | 34.3 3P% | 82.7 FT%

  • 31 Games | 29.8 MIN

Maxwell: The Charlotte Hornets have been a pleasant surprise this year. They have skill, feel, and shooting up and down the lineup. Lendeborg fits that billing like a glove. At 6’9”, he puts up a ton of threes and hits them efficiently. He’s also far better at driving to the basket and making passes on the move than most his size. Lendeborg is also a super versatile defender. He can get low in his chair and slide his feet to contain smaller players or swat shots around the basket as the low man. He gives Charlotte a ready-made contributor who can help them improve in their biggest problem area, which is the possession battle. Plus, he gives them a rare dribble-pass-shoot skill set in a 6’9” body. Lendeborg may be older, but his wide-ranging production and continuous development make him a great bet for a young team on the rise.

#14. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (via ATL) — Jayden Quaintance | F/C | Kentucky

• Profile: 6’10”, 255

• Year: Sophomore (18)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 5.0 PTS | 5.0 REB | 0.5 AST | 0.5 STL | 0.8 BLK

  • 57.1 FG% | 0 3P% | 30.8 FT%

  • 4 Games | 16.8 MIN

Nathan: Defense, defense, and more defense. This feels like the identity of the San Antonio Spurs moving forward. After all, they’ve invested in the league’s best defender in Victor Wembanyama, arguably one of the league’s best perimeter defenders in Stephon Castle, and an emerging problem at the forward position in Carter Bryant. Add in the fact that Dylan Harper hasn’t had a bad defensive season at the guard spot, and there’s a real foundation to challenge the Oklahoma City Thunder as the leader in the defensive clubhouse for years to come. Jayden Quaintance, if healthy, would cement that foundation and put true fear into opposing teams with his ability to guard in multiple schemes, protect the rim as a help defender, and switch onto opposing guards and wings if needed. His offensive skill set is still coming along, but there’s real upside he could play off Wemby as a high-low big that can pass, work in handoff actions, and finish at a high level at the rim. JQ would be an incredible piece to build with for the future.

#15. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS — Bennett Stirtz | G | Iowa

• Profile: 6’4”, 190

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 20.2 PTS | 2.5 REB | 4.4 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 49.8 FG% | 38.2 3P% | 84.4 FT%

  • 31 Games | 37.4 MIN

Stephen: The Golden State Warriors may be the best team that seems to have no real path for them to check all of the boxes that they want. With Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, Draymond Green, and Kristaps Porzingis all on the roster, the natural inclination would lead one to fancy this team as a contender. The problem is that this team is sputtering. Injecting Bennett Stirtz onto this team would give them another guard who is shooting almost 39% from deep on over 11 attempts per 100 possessions. He is also a sound decision-maker, boasting an assist-to-turnover ratio (A:TO) of 2.5 on a Usage Rate of 26.2. That’s good for those who aren’t tracking. For what it’s worth, he also has great size and has a Block Percentage of 1.0 and a Steal Percentage of 2.4–both very steady numbers given how much his team relies upon him. There would be times that he and Steph could share the floor, but Bennett can also be trusted to captain the second unit. With the guard depth in this class, and important players like De’Anthony Melton and Gary Payton II are on this team, a true baller like Stirtz would be a welcome addition.

#16. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (via PHI) — Aday Mara | C | Michigan

• Profile: 7’3”, 255

• Year: Junior (20)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 11.3 PTS | 6.9 REB | 2.4 AST | 0.3 STL | 2.6 BLK

  • 67.3 FG% | 28.6 3P% | 52.9 FT%

  • 31 Games | 22.6 MIN

Corey: With their second pick in the first round, Oklahoma City grabs Spanish big man Aday Mara, who has had a career resurgence after transferring to Michigan from UCLA, finally getting consistent minutes and the chance to show what made him so intriguing when he first came stateside. Among the big men in this class, Mara offers the best intersection of offensive skill, feel, and rim deterrence—a cocktail that has translated well to the NBA recently in players like Donovan Clingan and Neemias Queta. Mara hasn’t been perfect during his junior campaign, as he has struggled to find consistency as a shooter, manifesting both at the free-throw line and in his lack of three-point volume. In OKC, though, he lands in about the best possible situation to address it, working with Chip Engelland, one of the most respected shooting coaches in the world. Mara also gives OKC legitimate size and center depth, which becomes especially valuable if the Thunder decide they need to move off Isiah Hartenstein for financial reasons down the road.

#17. MIAMI HEAT — Dailyn Swain | G/F | Texas

• Profile: 6’8”, 220

• Year: Junior (20)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 17.7 PTS | 7.5 REB | 3.4 AST | 1.8 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 55.4 FG% | 34.6 3P% | 80.7 FT%

  • 31 Games | 32.0 MIN

Rucker: Miami continues to find itself stuck in a bit of a tough spot when it comes to the draft. They have a roster that features a lot of contracts that are set to come off the books soon, hopefully opening up some potential swings to get things back on track. All options could be on the table for the Heat, who have done a nice job lately of drafting and developing some of their pieces. As of now, Miami looks to need some legit depth on the perimeter. Insert Texas wing Dailyn Swain. As more of a Swiss Army Knife who can make a heck of an impact on the defensive side of the ball, Swain has had a great year for Texas after transferring from Xavier, following head coach Sean Miller. The outside shot still has some serious questions moving forward, but Swain has shown the ability to be a dynamic slasher with nice touch around the paint. For a team like Miami, it’d be another great piece to add alongside some of their young assets.

#18. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES (via ORL) — Koa Peat | F | Arizona

• Profile: 6’8”, 235

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 13.8 PTS | 5.3 REB | 2.7 AST | 0.7 STL | 0.8 BLK

  • 54.8 FG% | 31.6 3P% | 60.2 FT%

  • 28 Games | 27.2 MIN

Jam: Getting Peat here would be excellent value for Memphis. The five-star freshman is already physically ready to handle the NBA and still has plenty of two-way intrigue thanks to his blend of size, strength, footwork, ball skills, shotmaking, and competitive spirit. His lack of consistent high-level production in comparison to his fellow freshman counterparts is largely the main reason for any potential Peat drop, as NBA evaluators still decipher his best NBA role. His recent 25-point game against Colorado could be the spark for a March run from him on an Arizona team poised for a deep NCAA tournament run.

#19. TORONTO RAPTORS — Motiejus Krivas | C | Arizona

• Profile: 7’2”, 260

• Year: Junior (21)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 10.8 PTS | 8.2 REB | 1.0 AST | 0.7 STL | 1.8 BLK

  • 58.8 FG% | 36.4 3P% | 79.7 FT%

  • 31 Games | 25.0 MIN

Maxwell: Motiejus Krivas is absolutely enormous, and he moves super well. That said, he’s not just a bag of tools. He does the big man stuff really well, totally owning the offensive glass and finishing well inside. He’s also shown impressive touch at the free-throw line and knocked down a few threes this year, so he might eventually space the floor. But the real value comes on defense. Krivas blocks a ton of shots, as one might expect. But what doesn’t show up on the stat sheet is how many shots Krivas prevents from going up near the cup. He’s a scary, intimidating presence around the basket who routinely forces opponents into settling for subpar looks. As Jakob Poeltl gets older, Krivas should inject some youth and rim protection into the big man rotation for the Raptors.

#20. CHARLOTTE HORNETS (via PHX) — Nate Ament | F | Tennessee

• Profile: 6’10”, 207

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 17.4 PTS | 6.4 REB | 2.4 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.5 BLK

  • 41.4 FG% | 32.8 3P% | 79.2 FT%

  • 29 Games | 30.1 MIN

Corey: Charlotte adds some wing depth with their second first-round pick, selecting Tennessee freshman Nate Ament. At 6’10”, Ament is an intriguing prospect on paper. He’s a tall shooter who can create his own shot out of combo moves and is tall enough to get his looks off over the top of defenders. His passing is solid, and he’s shown a real willingness to draw contact and get to the free-throw line. Defensively, his length causes problems; he’s a solid rebounder, and his off-ball positioning and ability to dig and recover suggest good instincts. He has some real limitations, though, that have led to his falling out of the top tier group of this class. He lacks the burst to separate off the dribble, can’t back guys down to create deep post position, and plays with a rushed, tentative quality near the basket that gets him into trouble. The bigger issue is his vertical athleticism (or lack thereof), which limits him both as a finisher and as the rim protector that his size would suggest he could be. Ament may not be a day one contributor, but he’s a little more ready to go than Tidjane Saluan was while offering a similar long-term vision. For a Hornets team on the upswing and possessing a real identity, Ament is an excellent value play at this part of the draft.

#21. LOS ANGELES LAKERS — Braylon Mullins | G | UConn

• Profile: 6’6”, 196

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 12.0 PTS | 3.4 REB | 1.3 AST | 1.1 STL | 0.6 BLK

  • 44.0 FG% | 36.4 3P% | 87.0 FT%

  • 24 Games | 27.0 MIN

Stephen: The Lakers are likely looking for the Luka Doncic/Post-LeBron era in this draft. Not only is LeBron rumored to be moving on from the team next season, but Austin Reaves could be swayed to move by accepting a fat contract. With some of the more ideal Luke-type big men off the board at this point, getting another floor spacer to open the floor for Doncic makes sense. Mullins is shooting over 36% from deep on an absurd 14.3 attempts per 100 possessions. While he is one of the best shooting prospects in the class, Mullins also holds his own on defense, with a Block Percentage of 2.7 and a Steal Percentage of 2.4. Playing at UConn means that some display of certain skills–as well as a holistic development of multiple skills–is on the threshing floor. The film in high school and some flashes at UConn show good passing feel and potential growth as an on-ball guy. Still, getting a freshman who can play outside and defend is a huge get for a Luka-led Laker franchise.

#22. DENVER NUGGETS — Joshua Jefferson | F | Iowa State

• Profile: 6’9”, 240

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 16.6 PTS | 7.4 REB | 5.0 AST | 1.6 STL | 0.8 BLK

  • 45.7 FG% | 35.1 3P% | 71.3 FT%

  • 31 Games | 31.7 MIN

Nick: The Denver Nuggets have had a strange season, and it’s difficult to project what kind of player they need the most. When in doubt, though, it’s never a bad idea to bring more passing wizardry into the fold alongside Nikola Jokic. Enter Joshua Jefferson, who has an argument as the best passer in this class (and an even better one if you put him in the non-guard division along with Cam Boozer and Aday Mara). Jefferson’s passes will make you do a double-take, and he’s also a versatile and bulky defender at 6’8” and 225 pounds. Jefferson’s three-point shooting will probably be closer to his 31.6% career mark in college than his 35.1% three-point percentage this season, but his willingness to put up more shots from deep is also encouraging in terms of his offensive profile. Whatever his shooting ends up looking like at the next level, though, there’s no doubt that pairing someone with Jefferson’s court vision and passing gifts with Nikola Jokic is bound to generate some ridiculous highlights.

#23. ATLANTA HAWKS (via CLE) — Cameron Carr | W | Baylor

• Profile: 6’5”, 190

• Year: Sophomore (21)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 19.0 PTS | 5.5 REB | 2.7 AST | 0.9 STL | 1.3 BLK

  • 51.7 FG% | 39.7 3P% | 79.9 FT%

  • 31 Games | 33.6 MIN

Jam: After selecting Kingston Flemings at #6, Atlanta adds Carr, an athletic shooter with two-way upside and NBA bloodlines. His breakout at Baylor showed NBA evaluators a carrying skill in his high-level three-point shooting and defensive playmaking ability, thanks to his freak athleticism and plus length. Carr gives Atlanta a lethal floor spacing weapon for Jalen Johnson, Jonathan Kuminga, and Flemings, along with an above-the-rim finisher in both the halfcourt and in transition. Despite the wiry frame, he’s ready to instantly contribute in Atlanta.

#24. DETROIT PISTONS (via MIN) — Amari Allen | F | Alabama

• Profile: 6’8”, 205

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 11.9 PTS | 7.0 REB | 3.1 AST | 1.1 STL | 0.7 BLK

  • 46.2 FG% | 37.7 3P% | 75.0 FT%

  • 28 Games | 28.5 MIN

Metcalf: Detroit’s identity is clearly fixed on the defensive end of the court, but they still need to add some significant offensive firepower. Allen may not immediately alleviate their creation concerns outside of Cade Cunningham, but his all-around versatility on both ends would help plug a lot of holes. He’s the type of guy who can play with anyone. He rebounds, pushes in transition, defends multiple positions, passes, and can score in a variety of ways. He doesn’t necessarily have an elite skill, but he is a jack of all trades. At his size, Allen could potentially make some of their veteran wings a bit more expendable, which would free up some money for bigger swings elsewhere. If Allen doesn’t experience major growth in his game, he should still be a solid, versatile rotation wing. However, if/when there’s a major leap with his shot or creation, his upside becomes fascinating. He’s a fun blend of a prospect who feels relatively safe, fills a need, and still has a ton of upside.

#25. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS (via HOU) — Allen Graves | F | Santa Clara

• Profile: 6’9”, 225

• Year: Freshman

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 11.7 PTS | 6.4 REB | 1.8 AST | 1.9 STL | 0.9 BLK

  • 52.2 FG% | 42.5 3P% | 73.3 FT%

  • 32 Games | 22.1 MIN

Nathan: This draft selection has real pressure behind it for Daryl Morey and the Philadelphia 76ers organization. The franchise core isn’t getting any younger, and Morey has to nail this pick (or possibly trade it for an established rotation player), given the fact that it was acquired by giving up young standout guard Jared McCain to the Oklahoma City Thunder. There is little cap space to work with moving forward, so nailing draft picks and continuing to build around the youth in Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe is the only path forward with or without Joel Embiid and Paul George. Allen Graves is quite the interesting proposition for a team that’s tried to patch together the forward position in recent seasons. Graves’s analytical profile paints him as one of the best defensive playmakers in this entire draft class, and he’s improved as a shooting threat and transition player. If Graves is in fact part of the 2026 NBA Draft, it’s entirely possible an analytics-driven front office like Philadelphia would look to bet on a young man like Graves to help establish that defensive identity for a team that’s declined on that end of the floor, particularly without Embiid and George playing extended minutes.

#26. NEW YORK KNICKS — Hannes Steinbach | F/C | Washington

• Profile: 6’11”, 220

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 18.6 PTS | 11.6 REB | 1.5 AST | 1.1 STL | 1.1 BLK

  • 58.6 FG% | 35.6 3P% | 76.7 FT%

  • 28 Games | 34.2 MIN

Albert: The Knicks are a well-balanced contender with a roster of veteran and young talent. After grabbing Mohammed Diawara in the second round last season and watching him contribute and be part of the rotation this late in the season, it’s clear that Coach Brown has no problem playing young guys as long as they earn their spot in the rotation. Although Ariel Hukporti has had some flashes of potential, he really hasn’t been that interesting of an option as their third center behind Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson. Some may even say he’s regressed a little this season, and the front office may be looking to add a more solid option. This is where Steinbach comes in. Steinbach is a 6’11” freshman center for the Washington Huskies who is having a huge first season. Steinbach may not be a monster rim-protector as a big man, but he does come with an elite skillset in his bag as a ferocious rebounder. Steinbach is averaging 11.6 rebounds per game, with defensive rebounding and total rebounding percentages of 24.9% and 19.8%, respectively, both of which lead the nation. Steinbach is no slouch on the offensive boards either, where he’s at 14.6%. The Knicks value big men who can clean the glass and grab second-chance opportunities for the team. Steinbach is not just some rebounding machine, though; he’s displayed some real flashes of passing ability and a diverse offensive game. Steinbach has great touch around the rim and can finish with either hand. He also looks like he’s going to be able to step out and hit some shots from outside in the future as well. Grabbing a center of this caliber at this point in the draft would be a huge win for the Knicks and speaks to the overall level and depth of this class.

#27. BOSTON CELTICS — Chris Cenac Jr. | F/C | Houston

• Profile: 6’11”, 240

• Year: Freshman (18)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 9.4 PTS | 7.4 REB | 0.8 AST | 0.7 STL | 0.5 BLK

  • 49.0 FG% | 32.1 3P% | 59.0 FT%

  • 31 Games | 24.7 MIN

Rucker: The Boston Celtics have done some of the best work in the NBA lately when it comes to drafting and developing talent. Over the years, Boston has stressed patience with a lot of their young pieces, giving them opportunities to find themselves as players and figure out how to best make an impact with this organization. Houston Cougars freshman big man Chris Cenac Jr. will be one of the more polarizing prospects, potentially, in this class. The talent is obvious, and the flashes are great. But Cenac will find himself in a pool of players that will have a BIG decision to make throughout the predraft process. Cenac has tremendous upside, but many will argue whether he could skyrocket up boards with another year of development (as well as a thinner 2027 class). For now, Cenac lands in a dream situation for both parties, as Boston could stress patience with their long-term asset. Cenac is a tremendous rebounder with strong intangibles and the potential to be a pick-and-pop weapon down the road. If a couple more doors can eventually get unlocked with his game, he could be one of the best valued selections at this point in the mock.

#28. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (via DET) — Karim Lopez | F | NZ Breakers

• Profile: 6’8”, 220

• Year: 2007 Born (18)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 11.9 PTS | 6.1 REB | 1.9 AST | 1.2 STL | 1.0 BLK

  • 49.4 FG% | 32.2 3P% | 73.9 FT%

  • 30 Games | 25.6 MIN

Metcalf: The Timberwolves seem to have addressed their PG need via the trade market, so even though Christian Anderson is intriguing here, there are more interesting swings to take. What the Timberwolves are lacking, though, is depth on the wing. They don’t really have someone who can replace Jaden McDaniels when he leaves the court. Lopez isn’t quite as fluid as guys like Naz Reid and McDaniels, but he is huge for his position and caught a lot of eyes as he steadily improved throughout the NBL season. Lopez’s size and low-maintenance offense could help add a ton of value to the rotation for the Timberwolves, as some of their recent wing draft picks have struggled to establish a role this year.

#29. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS (via SAS) — Patrick Ngongba II | C | Duke

• Profile: 6’11”, 250

• Year: Sophomore (19)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 10.7 PTS | 6.0 REB | 1.9 AST | 0.6 STL | 1.1 BLK

  • 60.2 FG% | 27.6 3P% | 69.4 FT%

  • 29 Games | 22.4 MIN

Corey: Somebody has to fall in every draft class, and Cleveland is the beneficiary here, nabbing one of the most skilled bigs in the class in Duke sophomore Patrick Ngongba. Big Pat has put up solid numbers (both counting and advanced) in back-to-back seasons for the Blue Devils and is one of the more impactful prospects in the class when he’s on the floor. There are some potential medical concerns that likely pushed him down the board here, but at this point of the draft, Cleveland will happily take the swing on a young, productive, two-way big who plays winning basketball and gives the Cavs both frontcourt depth and a player who could step into a larger role if they decide to shake up the roster this offseason.

#30. DALLAS MAVERICKS (via OKC) — Tounde Yessoufou | G | Baylor

• Profile: 6’5”, 215

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 18.0 PTS | 5.8 REB | 1.6 AST | 2.1 STL | 0.5 BLK

  • 47.3 FG% | 31.5 3P% | 75.2 FT%

  • 31 Games | 32.3 MIN

Nick: The Dallas Mavericks finish out the first round by snagging someone who would have been considered a steal here just a couple of months ago. Tounde Yessoufou and the Baylor Bears have not had the season that they would have expected or wanted, but Yessoufou has quietly made some huge developmental steps forward in the shadow of Baylor’s lost season. His defense has looked much better and more consistent than it did in high school (though he still has some lapses), and his shooting from distance has also improved; meanwhile, he’s still the same unstoppable force when charging toward the basket that he’s always been. He would slot in pretty easily as a defensive chaos creator next to Cooper Flagg, and both his cutting and his ability to attack closeouts off the bounce could earn him some chances going forward as a complementary offensive piece alongside Flagg and Kyrie Irving.

SECOND ROUND

#31. SACRAMENTO KINGS — Christian Anderson | G | Texas Tech

• Profile: 6’3”, 188

• Year: Sophomore (19)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 19.2 PTS | 3.7 REB | 7.8 AST | 1.3 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 48.1 FG% | 42.7 3P% | 79.5 FT%

  • 30 Games | 38.6 MIN

#32. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES (via IND) — Tyler Tanner | G | Vanderbilt

• Profile: 6’0”, 173

• Year: Sophomore (19)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 19.2 PTS | 3.5 REB | 5.2 AST | 2.5 STL | 0.4 BLK

  • 49.5 FG% | 37.7 3P% | 85.3 FT%

  • 31 Games | 32.9 MIN

#33. BROOKLYN NETS — Ebuka Okorie | G | Stanford

• Profile: 6’2”, 185

• Year: Freshman (18)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 23.1 PTS | 3.7 REB | 3.6 AST | 1.6 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 46.0 FG% | 36.1 3P% | 83.2 FT%

  • 29 Games | 34.8 MIN

#34. NEW YORK KNICKS (via WAS) — Isaiah Evans | G | Duke

• Profile: 6’6”, 180

• Year: Sophomore (19)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 14.5 PTS | 2.8 REB | 1.3 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.7 BLK

  • 42.6 FG% | 36.7 3P% | 86.8 FT%

  • 31 Games | 27.3 MIN

#35. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (via UTA) — Billy Richmond III | G/F | Arkansas

• Profile: 6’6”, 205

• Year: Sophomore (19)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 11.1 PTS | 3.9 REB | 2.0 AST | 1.1 STL | 0.8 BLK

  • 57.4 FG% | 24.4 3P% | 80.3 FT%

  • 31 Games | 26.1 MIN

#36. CHICAGO BULLS (via NOLA) —Alex Condon | C | Florida

• Profile: 6’11”, 236

• Year: Junior (21)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 14.8 PTS | 7.6 REB | 3.6 AST | 0.7 STL | 1.4 BLK

  • 54.5 FG% | 15.7 3P% | 65.1 FT%

  • 30 Games | 30.4 MIN

#37. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (via DAL) — Maliq Brown | F | Duke

• Profile: 6’9”, 225

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 5.0 PTS | 4.7 REB | 1.8 AST | 1.9 STL | 0.5 BLK

  • 60.5 FG% | 17.2 3P% | 47.8 FT%

  • 31 Games | 19.8 MIN

#38. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS (via MEM) — Tarris Reed Jr. | C | UConn

• Profile: 6’11”, 265

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 13.8 PTS | 8.0 REB | 2.2 AST | 1.0 STL | 2.1 BLK

  • 63.8 FG% | 0 3P% | 55.9 FT%

  • 26 Games | 26.1 MIN

#39. HOUSTON ROCKETS (via CHI) — Emanuel Sharp | G | Houston

• Profile: 6’3”, 205

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 15.8 PTS | 3.0 REB | 1.9 AST | 1.3 STL | 0.1 BLK

  • 41.1 FG% | 37.6 3P% | 88.1 FT%

  • 31 Games | 29.5 MIN

#40. BOSTON CELTICS (via MIL) — Henri Veesaar | F/C | North Carolina

• Profile: 7’0”, 225

• Year: Junior (21)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 16.3 PTS | 8.4 REB | 2.0 AST | 0.6 STL | 1.2 BLK

  • 61.4 FG% | 41.5 3P% | 61.4 FT%

  • 29 Games | 30.9 MIN

#41. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (via POR) — Ryan Conwell | G | Louisville

• Profile: 6’4”, 215

• Year: Senior (21)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 18.7 PTS | 4.7 REB | 2.6 AST | 1.2 STL | 0.2 BLK

  • 40.8 FG% | 35.4 3P% | 85.2 FT%

  • 30 Games | 30.5 MIN

#42. BROOKLYN NETS (via LAC) — Flory Bidunga | C | Kansas

• Profile: 6’10”, 235

• Year: Sophomore (20)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 13.8 PTS | 9.0 REB | 1.6 AST | 0.7 STL | 2.7 BLK

  • 64.4 FG% | 0 3P% | 66.7 FT%

  • 31 Games | 31.8 MIN

#43. SACRAMENTO KINGS (via CHA) — Dame Sarr | W | Duke

• Profile: 6’8”, 190

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 6.2 PTS | 3.6 REB | 1.0 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 40.2 FG% | 33.3 3P% | 52.0 FT%

  • 31 Games | 21.9 MIN

#44. CHARLOTTE HORNETS (via GSW) — Ivan Kharchenkov | F | Arizona

• Profile: 6’7”, 220

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 9.8 PTS | 4.0 REB | 2.3 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 47.9 FG% | 29.4 3P% | 72.5 FT%

  • 31 Games | 27.3 MIN

#45. DENVER NUGGETS (via ATL) — Meleek Thomas | G | Arkansas

• Profile: 6’5”, 185

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 15.4 PTS | 3.9 REB | 2.4 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.2 BLK

  • 42.8 FG% | 41.7 3P% | 83.7 FT%

  • 31 Games | 29.5 MIN

#46. PHOENIX SUNS (via PHI) — Juke Harris | W | Wake Forest

• Profile: 6’7”, 200

• Year: Sophomore (20)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 21.7 PTS | 6.7 REB | 1.7 AST | 1.3 STL | 0.2 BLK

  • 45.2 FG% | 33.8 3P% | 77.6 FT%

  • 31 Games | 34.5 MIN

#47. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (via MIA) — Alex Karaban | F | UConn

• Profile: 6’8”, 230

• Year: Senior (23)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 12.9 PTS | 5.3 REB | 2.2 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.9 BLK

  • 47.9 FG% | 40.0 3P% | 84.6 FT%

  • 31 Games | 33.7 MIN

#48. ORLANDO MAGIC — Milan Momcilovic | F | Iowa State

• Profile: 6’8”, 225

• Year: Junior (21)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 17.0 PTS | 3.1 REB | 1.0 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.2 BLK

  • 51.5 FG% | 50.0 3P% | 89.7 FT%

  • 31 Games | 29.9 MIN

#49. TORONTO RAPTORS — Zvonimir Ivisic | C | Illinois

• Profile: 7’2”, 245

• Year: Junior (22)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 6.9 PTS | 4.7 REB | 0.3 AST | 0.3 STL | 2.2 BLK

  • 52.3 FG% | 30.7 3P% | 68.2 FT%

  • 31 Games | 17.6 MIN

#50. DALLAS MAVERICKS (via PHX) — Zuby Ejiofor | F | St. John’s

• Profile: 6’9”, 245

• Year: Senior (21)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 16.0 PTS | 7.1 REB | 3.5 AST | 1.2 STL | 2.0 BLK

  • 54.6 FG% | 31.7 3P% | 70.6 FT%

  • 31 Games | 29.6 MIN

#51. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS (via LAL) — Rueben Chinyelu | C | Florida

• Profile: 6’10”, 265

• Year: Junior (22)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 11.4 PTS | 11.7 REB | 0.7 AST | 0.7 STL | 1.1 BLK

  • 58.3 FG% | 0 3P% | 69.0 FT%

  • 31 Games | 24.6 MIN

#52. CHICAGO BULLS (via DEN) — Alijah Arenas | G | USC

• Profile: 6’6”, 200

• Year: Freshman (18)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 14.8 PTS | 2.8 REB | 1.9 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.5 BLK

  • 34.3 FG% | 22.4 3P% | 79.2 FT%

  • 13 Games | 27.5 MIN

#53. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS (via CLE) — Braden Smith | G | Purdue

• Profile: 6’0”, 170

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 14.9 PTS | 3.6 REB | 8.7 AST | 1.8 STL | 0.2 BLK

  • 46.2 FG% | 38.8 3P% | 82.3 FT%

  • 31 Games | 34.2 MIN

#54. WASHINGTON WIZARDS (via MIN) — Tyler Nickel | F | Vanderbilt

• Profile: 6’7”, 220

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 13.7 PTS | 3.1 REB | 1.2 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.6 BLK

  • 45.7 FG% | 40.2 3P% | 86.3 FT%

  • 31 Games | 30.5 MIN

#55. HOUSTON ROCKETS — Johann Grunloh | C | Virginia

• Profile: 7’0”, 240

• Year: Freshman (20)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 7.7 PTS | 5.5 REB | 0.7 AST | 0.5 STL | 2.4 BLK

  • 52.9 FG% | 35.0 3P% | 54.4 FT%

  • 31 Games | 21.9 MIN

#56. NEW YORK KNICKS — Jaden Bradley | G | Arizona

• Profile: 6’3”, 200

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 13.4 PTS | 3.5 REB | 4.6 AST | 1.6 STL | 0.0 BLK

  • 46.1 FG% | 38.2 3P% | 79.9 FT%

  • 31 Games | 30.2 MIN

#57. ATLANTA HAWKS (via BOS) — Dash Daniels | G | Melbourne

• Profile: 6’5”, 198

• Year: 2007 Born (18)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 4.2 PTS | 2.3 REB | 0.8 AST | 0.7 STL | 0.2 BLK

  • 42.8 FG% | 36.5 3P% | 35.5 FT%

  • 37 Games | 14.5 MIN

#58. NEW ORLEANS PELICANS (via DET) — Bruce Thornton | G | Ohio State

• Profile: 6’2”, 215

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 20.1 PTS | 5.1 REB | 3.9 AST | 1.2 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 55.8 FG% | 39.7 3P% | 81.9 FT%

  • 31 Games | 36.3 MIN

#59. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (via SAS) — Paul McNeil Jr. | G | NC State

• Profile: 6’5”, 190

• Year: Sophomore (19)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 13.5 PTS | 3.6 REB | 0.8 AST | 0.6 STL | 0.4 BLK

  • 42.9 FG% | 41.9 3P% | 82.3 FT%

  • 31 Games | 28.3 MIN

#60. WASHINGTON WIZARDS (via OKC) — Richie Saunders | G | BYU

• Profile: 6’5”, 200

• Year: Senior (24)

• Stats (as of 3/10/26):

  • 18.0 PTS | 5.8 REB | 2.1 AST | 1.7 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 48.9 FG% | 37.6 3P% | 81.7 FT%

  • 25 Games | 31.4 MIN

Share No Ceilings

WELCOME TO THE BIG SHOW.

February mock drafts always seem to hit different.

The Super Bowl is over. NFL fans are slowly flocking to basketball season.

Diehard hoop fans are foaming at the mouth, realizing March Madness is so close we can taste it.

Draft Sickos know this is where things start to get FUN.

We’re reaching the belly of the beast in the NBA Draft cycle. This is the final push for a lot of prospects to make some noise in the scouting world, cementing themselves as serious candidates for the upcoming draft class.

But an important reminder: while March is near, there’s still PLENTY of time for things to change.

We’ve seen just how exciting this NBA Draft class is shaping up to be. The hype has delivered. But now, we are finding out that it has the chance to be even more special than we dreamed.

The heavy hitters are delivering suspense. Other freshmen are starting to play their best basketball at the perfect time. While the collegiate regular season is inching toward the end, the draft cycle has just begun.

In case you’re new here, let us break it down for you.

Our entire No Ceilings team comes together for a “War Room” style Mock Draft. We take the current standings of the NBA on that given day and go pick by pick. Each member of our team shares a “nomination” for every pick. From there, after lengthy discussions, we take it to a vote.

These are the results.

Reminders:

• Measurements are based off team websites. As tradition, take it with a grain of salt.

• No Ceilings+ members get access to our Video of the War Room to see who was discussed for each pick. Video, as always, will be posted later today.

• Analysis from our team on each first round selection. FYI, that doesn’t mean that the person who did the write-up made the pick.

• Standings below are as of 2/8/26.

Let’s get after it.

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#1. SACRAMENTO KINGS — Darryn Peterson | G | Kansas

• Profile: 6’6”, 205

• Year: Freshman (18)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 20.5 PTS | 4.2 REB | 1.7 AST | 1.3 STL | 0.5 BLK

  • 48.9 FG% | 41.9 3P% | 79.1 FT%

  • 13 Games | 27.8 MIN

Nick: In a miserable season, even by the standards of Sacramento Kings basketball, the one shining light at the end of the tunnel is their shot at one of the superstars of the 2026 NBA Draft class. This time around, they landed at the top of the heap and are fortunate enough to make the difficult decision of who to take with the #1 overall pick. Health concerns (and weird videos of someone sending a text that they definitely thought wouldn’t make it into the wider world) aside, Peterson has shown pretty much everything that one could have wanted to see from him. His silky-smooth offensive game, top-tier efficiency on high volume (20.5 PPG on 49/42/79 shooting splits), and an ability to force everyone else to play at his pace that would make many veteran guards jealous, Darryn Peterson is the prize of an exceptionally loaded draft class. The Kings may be guard-heavy, but Peterson will still command that guard room immediately–and may even have a chance to learn from a future Hall of Famer if Russell Westbrook sticks around.

#2. INDIANA PACERS — AJ Dybantsa | F | BYU

• Profile: 6’9”, 210

• Year: Freshman (18)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 24.0 PTS | 6.3 REB | 3.5 AST | 1.1 STL | 0.4 BLK

  • 54.0 FG% | 37.8 3P% | 74.9 FT%

  • 23 Games | 32.6 MIN

Rucker: The Indiana Pacers opened some eyes with a big-time move ahead of the trade deadline, acquiring Ivica Zubac while sending out a protected 2026 pick. It’s a heck of a swing for the Pacers, who will be hoping that the lottery plays in their favor, allowing this pick to stay home and pair alongside their new big man. If that happens, there’s a world in which things get interesting quickly for the Pacers. In this scenario, adding AJ Dybantsa to the mix seems like a tremendous fit. Indiana could roll out a lineup of Zubac, Siakam, and Dybantsa (alongside a certain superstar returning next year) and intriguing depth. Dybantsa has started to really take some strides forward in his development these last couple of weeks, and the talent is still incredible.

#3. ATLANTA HAWKS (via NOLA) — Cameron Boozer | F | Duke

• Profile: 6’9”, 250

• Year: Freshman (18)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 23.3 PTS | 10.0 REB | 4.0 AST | 1.9 STL | 0.5 BLK

  • 57.6 FG% | 38.0 3P% | 76.2 FT%

  • 23 Games | 32.7 MIN

Corey: While Atlanta’s forward/wing room is undeniably crowded after adding Jonathan Kuminga at the deadline to join All-Star Jalen Johnson and former #1 pick Zaccharie Risacher, Boozer simply represents the best player available. He’s arguably not only the top talent in this draft, but the best American-born prospect in recent memory. His game may not be the most aesthetically pleasing, but neither was Luka Doncic’s. Though Boozer lacks superhuman athleticism (his athletic limitations are frequently overstated), he processes the game like a quantum computer and combines fundamental skill with ox-like strength, allowing him to play with both finesse and physicality. All Boozer has done at every level is dominate individually while leading his teams to trophies. It may not be the cleanest fit on paper, but who cares about fit when Atlanta could very well walk away with the best player in the class here?

#4. BROOKLYN NETS — Caleb Wilson | F | North Carolina

• Profile: 6’10”, 215

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 20.2 PTS | 9.6 REB | 2.8 AST | 1.6 STL | 1.3 BLK

  • 58.5 FG% | 26.9 3P% | 71.4 FT%

  • 23 Games | 31.5 MIN

Nathan: Even after landing at this point in the top half of the draft, the Brooklyn Nets would still walk away with a potential franchise-changing player in Caleb Wilson. The forward out of UNC is arguably the most athletic player in the entire draft, and he has started to put aspects of his game on display that don’t require said gifts—including passing vision and mid-range shooting touch. Wilson’s long strides to the basket present matchup problems in transition, and even against certain matchups in the halfcourt. His motor and nose for the ball on the glass help to establish Wilson as one of the most well-rounded prospects in the field. He’d immediately make a difference for the Nets on both ends of the floor.

#5. WASHINGTON WIZARDS — Keaton Wagler | G | Illinois

• Profile: 6’6”, 180

• Year: Freshman (18)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 17.8 PTS | 5.1 REB | 4.2 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.2 BLK

  • 45.9 FG% | 43.3 3P% | 80.9 FT%

  • 24 Games | 32.5 MIN

Jam: Wagler’s sensational rise lands him in the Top 5 with a Wizards team that appears to be transitioning from their assessment/deconstruction phase to now laying the foundation after trading for Trae Young and Anthony Davis. His near seamless in-season move to the lead/point guard role due to injuries in the Illinois backcourt has allowed Wagler to show evaluators the valuable ability to thrive oscillating on and off the ball between the lead and ancillary guard roles.

At 6’6”, Wagler brings positional size and three-point shooting (43.3% 3P on 5.9 3PA) that slots perfectly in the backcourt alongside Trae Young and the young Wizards perimeter core while being able to shine operating pick-and-rolls with A.D. and Alex Sarr. GM Will Dawkins recently spoke on wanting multiple decision-makers on the floor and not having one dominant handler. Wagler fits the description as a versatile offensive threat (17.8 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 4.2 APG) with a coveted blend of size, feel, shooting, and playmaking ability.

#6. UTAH JAZZ — Kingston Flemings | G | Houston

• Profile: 6’4”, 190

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 17.1 PTS | 3.5 REB | 5.4 AST | 1.8 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 51.6 FG% | 36.5 3P% | 82.6 FT%

  • 23 Games | 31.3 MIN

Stephen: It’s at around this point of the NBA Draft where things can get a little interesting. I’ve long thought that teams are going to reckon with taking need vs. BPA pretty early in this draft, due to the depth of quality guards in this class–and the Jazz are the first team where things can get a little tricky. Keyonte George is having a breakout season, they’ve traded for Jaren Jackson Jr., this is another season where they have kept Lari Markkanen and Walker Kessler, they drafted Ace Bailey and Kyle Filipowski in recent drafts, and they are still working on quality depth. While some may think a wing could be in play, the Jazz are going with Kingston Flemings here as the BPA.

The movement of playing two smaller guards together seems to be on a downswing, but Flemings joining Utah could give them another player to take pressure off of Keonte, while also allowing him to focus more on scoring. Flemings leads his position group in Block Percentage–while also having a very high Steal Percentage. His three-point efficiency has been fairly high, but there could be a bit of a false floor attached to it. Still, the floor spacing within the frontcourt of Utah would give Kingston the ability to get downhill and swing the ball around the way that Houston has allowed him to be able to do. Plus, the shot blocking that would be behind him would give the Jazz the chance to play smaller in the backcourt.

#7. DALLAS MAVERICKS — Mikel Brown Jr. | G | Louisville

• Profile: 6’5”, 190

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 17.3 PTS | 3.3 REB | 5.1 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.1 BLK

  • 39.3 FG% | 31.7 3P% | 81.6 FT%

  • 16 Games | 28.5 MIN

Albert: Cooper Flagg has been exactly what we thought he was going to be: nothing short of awesome. The mission now is to build a contender around him. With Anthony Davis now shipped to Washington, it really feels like the Mavs are fully locked in on building this team up from the ground floor. With that in mind, grabbing Mikel Brown Jr. here is a great first step in the right direction. Brown is coming off a monster performance against NC State, where he had 45 points, grabbed nine rebounds, and hit 10 threes. Critics may say that it was a flash in the pan and a one-off, but it’s important to note that Mikel has struggled with injury to start the season and is now starting to get into a true groove. Mikel may always be a streaky shooter, but his dynamic ability as a scorer and playmaker makes him way too enticing to pass up as a future building block for the Mavs.

#8. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES — Nate Ament | F | Tennessee

• Profile: 6’10”, 207

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 17.6 PTS | 6.5 REB | 2.5 AST | 1.1 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 42.8 FG% | 33.3 3P% | 76.8 FT%

  • 23 Games | 29.9 MIN

Jam: Ament’s progressive development this season and continued production surge are reasserting him as a Top 10 lock. Over his last ten games, Ament is averaging 20.5 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 2.4 APG, and 1.5 stocks on 40.5% three-point shooting (3.7 3PA) and 75.9% from the free-throw line (8.7 FTA).

The toolsy 6’10” big wing is showing more comfort and decisiveness in addition to stronger drives and shotmaking versatility. With the need for patience and alignment on Ament’s development plan, Memphis offers one of the best matches because of the team’s status as a rebuilding team with a history of positive development stories and draft success. Adding Ament brings Memphis arguably the highest upside wing in the class outside of Dybantsa and raises the team’s long-term ceiling.

#9. MILWAUKEE BUCKS — Jayden Quaintance | F/C | Kentucky

• Profile: 6’10”, 255

• Year: Sophomore (18)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 5.0 PTS | 5.0 REB | 0.5 AST | 0.5 STL | 0.8 BLK

  • 57.1 FG% | 0 3P% | 30.8 FT%

  • 4 Games | 16.8 MIN

Albert: The Bucks are in a bit of an awkward position. The rumors around Giannis and his future with the team will continue to swirl, and by the time we get to the draft, who knows how crazy things might get. All that to say, the Bucks are still a flawed roster and need to be building for the future. Adding a player like Quaintance is the right move, regardless of whether they keep Giannis past this season. In Quaintance, the Bucks would be getting a very young, dynamic frontcourt player with supreme defensive versatility. He has unique measurables and tools that make him a one-of-a-kind prospect. From Day One, he’ll be able to walk in and defend multiple positions and offer a ton of impact on the defensive end of the floor. As an offensive player, he’s got a bit of a journey ahead of him as he’s very raw on this end. Early on, he’ll be an effective play-finisher with soft hands and touch, but he’s going to need some time to round out the rest of his offensive game. At the very least, you’ll get a reliable rim-runner who can offer monster potential on the defensive end. A player like that is a strong addition to a team with or without Giannis.

#10. CHICAGO BULLS — Koa Peat | F | Arizona

• Profile: 6’8”, 235

• Year: Freshman (18)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 14.3 PTS | 5.6 REB | 2.6 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.7 BLK

  • 54.2 FG% | 33.3 3P% | 61.0 FT%

  • 24 Games | 27.8 MIN

Corey: Arizona freshman Koa Peat feels like the most archetypal prospect in the class for a Bulls front office led by Artūras Karnišovas. Built like a football player, Peat moves with the fluidity, grace, and explosive power of a top edge rusher. He can play above the rim, create his own shot in the midrange, defend multiple positions, and be a vital, versatile contributor. He has played whatever role his team needs, for the best team in the country, even if he often sacrifices his own stats in the process. While his outside jumper requires significant development, as he often lacks the confidence to shoot unless he is completely wide the F open—NBA teams have shown patience with talented prospects whose main flaw is a developable jump shot. As Chicago finally commits to a rebuild, Peat could become a foundational frontcourt piece for years to come.

#11. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS — Braylon Mullins | G | UConn

• Profile: 6’6”, 196

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 11.7 PTS | 3.3 REB | 1.4 AST | 1.2 STL | 0.5 BLK

  • 47.4 FG% | 38.4 3P% | 81.3 FT%

  • 17 Games | 26.1 MIN

Stephen: Braylon Mullins hasn’t lit up box scores in a way that some of the other players within the lottery have, but being able to be a reliable option for a team like UConn carries a ton of weight. The Trail Blazers feature a roster that has some good depth at the point guard position. They have some depth in the frontcourt. Where the Blazers could stand to get a little deeper is along the perimeter. Mullins entered this season as one of the preeminent shooters within the class, and he has lived up to the billing.

Braylon is shooting over 38% from deep while getting up more than 13 attempts per 100 possessions. He has also done a great job of converting his two-pointers as well, boasting a two-point percentage of 63.2%. Something that may catch people off guard is his competency on defense. Mullins moves his feet and is capable of defending on the ball remarkably well. This may surprise people, but he is one of 35 freshmen who have a Block and Steal Percentage of at least 2.0. There are some things that Braylon is going to have to improve–notably drawing fouls–but he is a non-stop shooter who can defend, can move the ball, and even rebound. Opening up the floor for Deni-Clingan pick-and-roll looks could be the move here.

#12. CHARLOTTE HORNETS — Yaxel Lendeborg | F | Michigan

• Profile: 6’9”, 240

• Year: Senior (23)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 14.3 PTS | 7.5 REB | 3.2 AST | 1.3 STL | 1.4 BLK

  • 50.5 FG% | 29.9 3P% | 84.5 FT%

  • 23 Games | 28.0 MIN

Nick: The Charlotte Hornets have been blisteringly hot for the last month and a half, and are on pace to make the play-in tournament for the first time in nearly half a decade. However, they could use some size in the frontcourt going forward, and their dead-last rankings in steals could stand to improve with the right defensive playmaker. Enter Yaxel Lendeborg, Michigan’s do-it-all forward, who would be a massive defensive upgrade for the Charlotte frontline. Lendeborg might be going through a bit of a cold spell shooting-wise at the moment, but he has more than doubled his volume from distance this season and should provide spacing value. The shooting is also the last note in the log line for Lendeborg; his absurd 67.2% mark on his shots inside the arc should be driving much more of the conversation about his offense (let alone his sensational passing for his position), and his defensive versatility would allow the Hornets to throw out a bunch of different looks defensively that they can’t match with their current forwards.

#13. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (via LAC) — Karim Lopez | F | NZ Breakers

• Profile: 6’8”, 220

• Year: 2007 Born (18)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 11.8 PTS | 6.1 REB | 1.9 AST | 1.2 STL | 1.1 BLK

  • 50.0 FG% | 31.5 3P% | 73.8 FT%

  • 29 Games | 25.6 MIN

Rucker: Oklahoma City continues to feature one of the most talented rosters in the NBA with legit depth for the foreseeable future. This franchise has always done a great job of trusting their board and stressing patience when it comes to developing talent. After a slow start to the year, International prospect Karim Lopez has started to really find his groove overseas in the NBL with New Zealand. Lopez is still extremely young, but has the tools of a versatile forward with potential two-way ability. For a team like the Thunder, investing in the long-term potential of Lopez gives them a versatile piece they can allow to blossom with time.

#14. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (via ATL) — Chris Cenac Jr. | F/C | Houston

• Profile: 6’11”, 240

• Year: Freshman (18)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 9.8 PTS | 7.7 REB | 0.8 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.5 BLK

  • 50.5 FG% | 37.5 3P% | 63.3 FT%

  • 23 Games | 25.0 MIN

Nathan: Perhaps no player has helped their draft stock more over the last month than Chris Cenac Jr. Viewed as more of a face-up big man who could stretch the floor and make opponents have to guard him on the perimeter, Cenac has asserted himself in recent games as an interior presence both from a finishing perspective, and on the boards where he’s been Houston’s most consistent rebounder of late. Cenac has all of the physical tools to become a versatile NBA defender, with a clear pathway to offensive production via putbacks, pick-and-pop shooting, and transition runouts. Cenac would fit well alongside Victor Wembanyama and provide plenty of spacing for a trio of backcourt slashers in De’Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, and Dylan Harper.

#15. MIAMI HEAT — Darius Acuff | G | Arkansas

• Profile: 6’3”, 190

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 20.5 PTS | 3.0 REB | 6.3 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.4 BLK

  • 49.0 FG% | 41.6 3P% | 77.9 FT%

  • 23 Games | 33.8 MIN

Nick: The Miami Heat benefit here from Darius Acuff sliding out of the lottery, in no small part due to the extraordinary point guard depth in this class. Acuff has answered every reasonable question that could have been asked about his proficiency as a shooter and as a playmaker. He still has work to do on the defensive end, but he has the athletic tools to be honed into a solid player on that end of the floor under Erik Spoelstra and the rest of the Heat’s coaching staff.

#16. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES (via ORL) — Morez Johnson Jr. | F/C | Michigan

• Profile: 6’9”, 250

• Year: Sophomore (19)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 13.6 PTS | 7.3 REB | 1.2 AST | 0.7 STL | 1.1 BLK

  • 67.0 FG% | 38.5 3P% | 80.0 FT%

  • 23 Games | 23.5 MIN

Albert: Morez Johnson Jr. will be a highly coveted asset in the 2026 NBA Draft. Johnson is easy to root for because of his style of play and the impact he has on both sides of the ball. Playing on a loaded Michigan team, one could argue that Johnson has been the most valuable player on the squad this season. On the offensive side of the ball, Johnson has shown some real flashes of extending his range out past the three-point line. He hasn’t taken a ton of threes this season, but he’s taking more than he did last season, and that alone is a big step in the right direction for him. Johnson is also very efficient around the rim and is a monster on the offensive glass. As a defender Joihnson is a monster rim protector, can guard smaller defenders, and gives supreme effort on this side of the ball at all times. For the Grizzlies, who are also looking to mix things up and potentially rebuild their team, adding a hard-nosed player like Johnson would be a welcome addition.

#17. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS — Brayden Burries | G | Arizona

• Profile: 6’4”, 205

• Year: Freshman (20)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 15.7 PTS | 4.7 REB | 2.6 AST | 1.6 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 50.8 FG% | 38.1 3P% | 78.8 FT%

  • 24 Games | 28.9 MIN

Rucker: You could make an argument that Arizona Wildcats freshman guard Brayden Burries has been one of the most impressive prospects in terms of revamping his draft stock. After a slow start to the season, Burries has been one of the most impressive freshman prospects in the country, especially during conference play. Listed at 6’4”, Burries is a strong guard who plays with great poise and has a mature understanding of the game. He’s got the potential to become a legit three-level scoring guard and would be a dream to get here for Golden State. Burries has shown the ability to play on and off the ball this year for Arizona alongside upperclassman Jaden Bradley. For a team like Golden State, Burries would be a home run get, as he’s trending as a prospect who could start hearing his name much earlier than this spot.

#18. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (via PHI) — Hannes Steinbach | F/C | Washington

• Profile: 6’11”, 220

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 17.5 PTS | 11.2 REB | 1.5 AST | 1.1 STL | 1.0 BLK

  • 54.2 FG% | 35.1 3P% | 75.9 FT%

  • 21 Games | 33.5 MIN

Corey: After using their lottery selection on a high upside wing in Karim López, the defending champions now target the draft’s most productive and relentless rebounder in German big man Hannes Steinbach. Steinbach doesn’t possess a flashy bag, but he sets great screens, has a reliable back-to-the-basket game, plays with motor, and cleans the glass on both ends of the floor. Steinbach doesn’t need plays called for him, but he will create endless extra possessions and do all the gritty, dirty work that allows stars to shine. For a team with dynastic aspirations, Steinbach is the perfect value pick who fills an immediate and long-term need.

#19. TORONTO RAPTORS — Cameron Carr | G | Baylor

• Profile: 6’5”, 175

• Year: Sophomore (21)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 19.6 PTS | 5.8 REB | 2.8 AST | 0.9 STL | 1.3 BLK

  • 52.1 FG% | 41.3 3P% | 76.8 FT%

  • 23 Games | 32.8 MIN

Nathan: The Toronto Raptors still could use some help in the shooting department, and Cameron Carr is the most dynamic long-range sharpshooter in the 2026 NBA Draft due to his blend of silky-smooth athleticism with a clean, repeatable shot from the outside. Carr can hit shots on the move, off the dribble, and as a catch-and-shoot outlet. The Raptors organization leans heavily on several slashing threats to get downhill and spray out to shooters. While Toronto has a few quality perimeter shooters, none are as dynamic as Carr, who also presents real upside on the defensive end given his quickness and recoverability—even if he’s beaten off the bounce or caught on a screen.

#20. CHARLOTTE HORNETS (via PHX) — Amari Allen | F | Alabama

• Profile: 6’8”, 205

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 11.7 PTS | 7.4 REB | 3.5 AST | 1.1 STL | 0.8 BLK

  • 45.1 FG% | 36.1 3P% | 74.3 FT%

  • 20 Games | 28.5 MIN

Stephen: It would appear that the Charlotte Hornets have placed a heavy emphasis on drafting players who are good at basketball. Seriously, last year’s draft has forced a bit of an identity shift for the Hornets. With players like Kon Knueppel and Ryan Kalkbrenner sparking this shift, it would be hard to imagine Charlotte going the route of project players. An area on the depth chart the Hornets could address in the draft is the forward spot. Amari Allen being available seems like easy money.

Amari is a freshman and the reigning Gatorade Player of the Year for Wisconsin (do yourself a favor and look up the lineage there). Playing for Alabama, Amari has been a point forward for the Tide, posting an Assist Percentage of 19.4. He also spaces the floor at good size (listed at 6’8” and 208 pounds), shooting over 36% from deep on just under eight three-pointers per 100 possessions. He is a strong and unrelenting rebounder as well. Defensively, he has a little bit to do in order to improve, but he has a Block and Steal Percentage of at least 2.0. He gets to the free-throw line due to his style of play and already-strong frame. There is a little bit of a usage conversation to be had (19.2 Usage Rate), but he should be able to come in and play off already established players on this team–similar to what he has done with Labaron Philon at Alabama.

#21. ATLANTA HAWKS (via CLE) — Labaron Philon | G | Alabama

• Profile: 6’4”, 185

• Year: Sophomore (20)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 21.5 PTS | 3.5 REB | 4.9 AST | 1.3 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 50.9 FG% | 39.1 3P% | 76.4 FT%

  • 22 Games | 29.9 MIN

Jam: Led by his jump from shooting 31.5% from three (3.4 3PA) last season to 39.1% on 5.8 3PA, Philon Jr. has been one of the most improved sophomores and productive guards in all of the country with 21.5 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 4.9 APG, and 1.6 stocks per game. The very real leap in shooting in conjunction with his multi-level scoring, advanced playmaking, and tenacious two-way ability gives him the profile of a quality NBA lead guard that can contribute in Atlanta over both the short and long term.

Philon Jr. can alleviate some of the primary handling and decision-making duties from Jalen Johnson and Nickeil Alexander-Walker while generating paint touches and scoring opportunities. With Trae Young traded to Washington and McCollum and Vincent on expiring contracts, the opportunity to select a lead guard of Philon Jr.’s caliber is too good to pass up.

#22. DETROIT PISTONS (via MIN) — Thomas Haugh | F | Florida

• Profile: 6’9”, 215

• Year: Junior (22)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 17.8 PTS | 6.4 REB | 2.0 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.9 BLK

  • 47.6 FG% | 35.2 3P% | 74.0 FT%

  • 23 Games | 33.8 MIN

Stephen: The Detroit Pistons have done such a good job of identifying players who can come in and fill a role on their team without sacrificing the rough-and-tumble persona they carry. Adding Thomas Haugh to this team honestly feels a little unfair to the rest of the league. Haugh is a collegiate champion. Last season, he played a role as a battering ram on offense and an enforcer on defense. When players like Walter Clayton Jr., Will Richard, and Alijah Martin left for the NBA, the Gators made the decision to slide Haugh up to play small forward, which was a decision that left some feeling a little concerned.

The choice has proven to be a solid one for Haugh’s development. While playing further away from the basket this season, Haugh has still been an effective rebounder–ranking in the 69th percentile on putback opportunities. His strength and motor have allowed him to continue to be super solid around the rim, but he has also grown as a shooter. Thomas is attempting almost nine threes per 100 possessions, and doing so while shooting over 35%. The fact that Thomas has shown more confidence in attacking on drives has to have impressed NBA front offices. Haugh’s ability to be a strong defender and rebounder, while improving his touch from deep, has helped him to become a more well-rounded player. Considering his motor may burn the hottest within this class, the Pistons would be foaming at the mouth to take him should he make it this far in the draft.

#23. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS (via HOU) — Dailyn Swain | G/F | Texas

• Profile: 6’8”, 220

• Year: Junior (20)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 17.3 PTS | 7.3 REB | 3.5 AST | 1.9 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 57.4 FG% | 31.3 3P% | 79.8 FT%

  • 24 Games | 31.4 MIN

Corey: Texas’s Dailyn Swain is a quintessential modern wing prospect, blending connective playmaking with versatile defense in a mold that fits seamlessly next to Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid. While not a primary creator at the NBA level, as Swain can be a bit turnover-prone, he has excelled at attacking downhill and finishing at the rim, utilizing his unique blend of bend and strength. His outside shot remains a HUGE swing skill (career 26.3% 3PT), though flashes of late-clock shot-making (38% with <4 seconds) and a solid career FT% (80.8%) offer a pathway to shooting development if you consider yourself a glass-half-full kinda person. Defensively, he’s a smart and active presence, navigating screens fluidly, moving well laterally, and generating steals with active hands. While he has limitations, Swain projects as an ideal two-way connector who makes quick reads, attacks closeouts, and guards multiple positions.

#24. LOS ANGELES LAKERS — Pat Ngongba II | C | Duke

• Profile: 6’11”, 250

• Year: Sophomore (19)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 10.7 PTS | 6.1 REB | 2.0 AST | 0.7 STL | 1.3 BLK

  • 61.4 FG% | 28.0 3P% | 68.4 FT%

  • 23 Games | 22.6 MIN

Jam: The Lakers are in search of talented bigs that can excel operating the two-man game with Luka Doncic and Austin Reeves. Enters Ngonba II, a big man with positional size and an evolving modern game. Ngonba doesn’t have the ideal vertical pop of a big that Luka is accustomed to playing with, but he’s a capable playfinisher and lob threat with feel that can also work the short roll and dribble hand-off game for both scoring and playmaking chances.

Furthermore, his touch flashes add to his offensive upside—plus there is enough defensive playmaking (2.0 stocks per game) to believe in despite lacking true defensive anchor qualities. Ngonba II would have an opportunity to become the starting big long-term in L.A., and at worst, become an impactful rotation big.

#25. DENVER NUGGETS — Christian Anderson | G | Texas Tech

• Profile: 6’3”, 188

• Year: Sophomore (19)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 19.3 PTS | 3.3 REB | 7.7 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.2 BLK

  • 48.4 FG% | 43.6 3P% | 78.3 FT%

  • 22 Games | 38.7 MIN

Nathan: Christian Anderson ending up with the Denver Nuggets would be fitting, given his most popular public comparison is Jamal Murray. Even though they aren’t similar in terms of physical frame, both Anderson and Murray do their best work operating in pick-and-roll and hand-off sets that free them up to shoot off the bounce, or create mismatches where they can attack slower defenders and make them pay in the midrange or on kick-out passes to open shooters. Anderson is arguably the most complete point guard shooter in the entire draft and has more scoring punch than meets the eye. He’s having a career season as a playmaker and is one of the best on-ball pick-and-roll playmakers to enter the NBA in quite some time. Despite concerns about his size and athleticism, Anderson has produced in a big way for Texas Tech and is a leader in the entire country in points created. Texas Tech’s offense benefits greatly from his ability to make the right read and pass guys open, and he’d be a great fit alongside bigs like Nikola Jokic and Aaron Gordon.

#26. NEW YORK KNICKS — Tounde Yessoufou | G | Baylor

• Profile: 6’5”, 215

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 17.7 PTS | 5.7 REB | 1.7 AST | 2.1 STL | 0.6 BLK

  • 47.8 FG% | 30.8 3P% | 76.2 FT%

  • 23 Games | 31.2 MIN

Albert: Any player drafted in this spot for the Knicks is most likely looking at very minimal minutes with the team in their rookie season. The Knicks are one of the best teams in the East and have a veteran-laden roster with very little opportunity for young players to come in and grab minutes. With that being said, that might be the perfect situation for a player like Tounde Yessoufou. Yessoufou is a raw player on both ends of the floor, but he’s got a boatload of talent and, with a long enough runway and development, could become a very good NBA player. Yessoufou brings strong athleticism, an NBA-ready frame, and a budding offensive game. As a freshman playing for the Baylor Bears, Yessoufou is averaging over 17 points per game and just under 6 rebounds per game. That’s real production for a raw guard like him. With a couple of years of development in Westchester with the Knicks’ G-League affiliate, Yessoufou could become a tantalizing guard option for a team with an ageing Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns.

#27. BOSTON CELTICS — Joshua Jefferson | F/C | Iowa State

• Profile: 6’9”, 240

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 17.2 PTS | 7.7 REB | 5.1 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.8 BLK

  • 50.0 FG% | 40.9 3P% | 70.3 FT%

  • 23 Games | 31.3 MIN

Rucker: The Boston Celtics made a number of intriguing moves at the NBA trade deadline, especially when it came to navigating some potential luxury tax issues moving forward. Still, Boston continues to be a team that will be foaming at the mouth for the upcoming season once a certain superstar returns. Although the team acquired Nikola Vucevic at the deadline, who is on an expiring contract, there’s a good chance Vucevic could be back after the season. Despite that, Boston looks like they could use some more depth in their frontcourt. Iowa State senior Joshua Jefferson seems to be a potentially perfect fit when it comes to the Celtics. He’s a floor spacing forward with sensational playmaking ability offensively and a great feel for the game. Boston could use him as a great asset in their halfcourt to continue to open up the floor for a number of bucket-getters on the roster.

#28. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS (via SAS) — Bennett Stirtz | G | Iowa

• Profile: 6’4”, 190

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 19.9 PTS | 2.3 REB | 4.8 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.1 BLK

  • 50.7 FG% | 40.6 3P% | 84.2 FT%

  • 23 Games | 36.4 MIN

Nick: The Cleveland Cavaliers made a clear win-now move at the deadline by taking the other side of the Darius Garland bet and picking up James Harden, so they could be looking for longer-term guard depth here near the end of the first round. With Bennett Stirtz, Cleveland picks up a spectacular shooter and excellent playmaker in Iowa’s Bennett Stirtz. Stirtz was a controversial prospect last year for Drake; some bought into his ridiculous scoring, while others wanted to see him prove it against a higher level of competition. He has responded by somehow improving both his scoring (19.2 PPG last year to 19.9 PPG this year) and his efficiency (50/40/79 last year to 51/41/84 this year) against a higher level of competition. Stirtz could very well go higher than this, depending on how teams feel about his defense, and he would be a great pickup here for the Cavaliers.

#29. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (via DET) — Isaiah Evans | G | Duke

• Profile: 6’6”, 180

• Year: Sophomore (20)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 14.0 PTS | 3.1 REB | 1.3 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.9 BLK

  • 40.7 FG% | 33.3 3P% | 88.3 FT%

  • 23 Games | 27.9 MIN

Corey: In the pursuit of championship depth, the Minnesota Timberwolves add a dynamic microwave scorer to their backcourt in Isaiah Evans from Duke. Evans is arguably the most aggressive three-point shooter in this class, launching with supreme confidence from anywhere, at any time, flying off screens with relentless off-ball movement. While his role was largely as a high-volume three-point shooting play-finisher as a freshman (18.1 3PT/100), Evans has expanded his role more as a sophomore, flashing tough shot-making self-creation on the ball. Defensively, he plays his ass off and has been an effective playmaker, with a STL% of 1.9 and BLK% of 4. He has clear limitations on both sides from a strength perspective, but he plays tougher than his lack of strength might indicate. He doesn’t have the most versatile game, but his immediate role is clear: provide instant, high-octane bench scoring as a movement shooter in the mold of a Malik Monk or Jordan Hawkins, backing up Anthony Edwards and helping to space the floor.

#30. DALLAS MAVERICKS (via OKC) — Flory Bidunga | F/C | Kansas

• Profile: 6’10”, 235

• Year: Sophomore (20)

• Stats (as of 2/10/26):

  • 14.9 PTS | 9.0 REB | 1.7 AST | 0.7 STL | 2.8 BLK

  • 68.6 FG% | 0.0 3P% | 67.5 FT%

  • 24 Games | 31.4 MIN

Nick: After showing flashes in minimal playing time last year, Flory Bidunga had a lot to prove heading into this season. He has passed every test on the court this year with flying colors, from having a lot of offense run through him with Darryn Peterson out early in the season to Bidunga’s master class on Monday night, putting up 23 and 10 with three blocks and a steal in an upset win over previously undefeated Arizona–also without Peterson. Bidunga’s insane athleticism was responsible for most of the flashes he showed last season, but he has taken his defense to another level by finding a way to play with more control. In truly absurd fashion, Bidunga has jumped up from 1.6 BPG to 2.8 BPG while reducing his fouling. Oh, and he’s also averaging 14.9 PPG on 68.6% shooting from the floor. Bidunga might not provide the stretch factor on offense as a non-shooter, but his improved playmaking and nearly-unparalleled rim gravity should be more than enough offensive output to get his incredible defense on the floor. If Dereck Lively II can return to health, the Flagg-Bidunga-Lively frontline would quickly become one of the best defensive frontcourts in the NBA.

#31. SACRAMENTO KINGS — Aday Mara | C | Michigan

• Profile: 7’3”, 255

• Year: Junior (20)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 11.3 PTS | 6.9 REB | 2.2 AST | 0.4 STL | 2.7 BLK

  • 66.7 FG% | 33.3 3P% | 49.0 FT%

  • 23 Games | 22.6 MIN

#32. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES (via IND) — Tyler Tanner | G | Vanderbilt

• Profile: 6’0”, 173

• Year: Sophomore (19)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 18.6 PTS | 3.5 REB | 5.3 AST | 2.5 STL | 0.5 BLK

  • 48.6 FG% | 38.7 3P% | 84.9 FT%

  • 23 Games | 31.6 MIN

#33. CHICAGO BULLS (via NOLA) — Motiejas Krivas | C | Arizona

• Profile: 7’2”, 260

• Year: Junior (21)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 11.1 PTS | 8.6 REB | 1.1 AST | 0.7 STL | 2.0 BLK

  • 59.9 FG% | 33.3 3P% | 79.6 FT%

  • 24 Games | 24.1 MIN

#34. BROOKLYN NETS — Henri Veesaar | C | North Carolina

• Profile: 7’0”, 225

• Year: Junior (21)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 16.6 PTS | 9.1 REB | 2.0 AST | 0.6 STL | 1.3 BLK

  • 62.6 FG% | 46.0 3P% | 62.1 FT%

  • 23 Games | 30.8 MIN

#35. NEW YORK KNICKS (via WAS) — Zuby Ejiofor | F/C | St. John’s

• Profile: 6’9”, 245

• Year: Senior (21)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 16.3 PTS | 7.5 REB | 3.5 AST | 1.3 STL | 2.0 BLK

  • 53.9 FG% | 33.3 3P% | 70.2 FT%

  • 24 Games | 30.0 MIN

#36. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (via UTA) — Joseph Tugler | F | Houston

• Profile: 6’8”, 230

• Year: Junior (20)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 8.0 PTS | 5.6 REB | 1.2 AST | 1.6 STL | 1.5 BLK

  • 58.3 FG% | 100 3P% | 68.3 FT%

  • 23 Games | 22.4 MIN

#37. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (via DAL) — Allen Graves | F | Santa Clara

• Profile: 6’9”, 225

• Year: Freshman

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 11.2 PTS | 7.1 REB | 1.8 AST | 2.1 STL | 1.0 BLK

  • 51.4 FG% | 39.3 3P% | 69.6 FT%

  • 26 Games | 22.7 MIN

#38. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS (via MEM) — Meleek Thomas | G | Arkansas

• Profile: 6’5”, 185

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 15.0 PTS | 3.4 REB | 2.7 AST | 1.4 STL | 0.1 BLK

  • 42.2 FG% | 39.1 3P% | 84.2 FT%

  • 23 Games | 27.7 MIN

#39. BOSTON CELTICS (via MIL) — Ivan Kharchenkov | F | Arizona

• Profile: 6’7”, 220

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 9.5 PTS | 3.6 REB | 2.2 AST | 1.6 STL | 0.4 BLK

  • 50.3 FG% | 30.0 3P% | 71.7 FT%

  • 24 Games | 25.7 MIN

#40. SACRAMENTO KINGS (via CHA) — Dame Sarr | G/F | Duke

• Profile: 6’8”, 190

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 5.9 PTS | 3.3 REB | 0.9 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 40.2 FG% | 31.5 3P% | 54.8 FT%

  • 23 Games | 20.3 MIN

#41. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (via POR) — Neoklis Avdalas | G/F | Virginia Tech

• Profile: 6’9”, 215

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 12.6 PTS | 3.1 REB | 4.7 AST | 0.7 STL | 0.6 BLK

  • 38.8 FG% | 29.1 3P% | 67.4 FT%

  • 23 Games | 31.9 MIN

#42. WASHINGTON WIZARDS (via CHI) — JT Toppin | F | Texas Tech

• Profile: 6’9”, 230

• Year: Junior (20)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 21.8 PTS | 10.5 REB | 2.0 AST | 1.3 STL | 1.6 BLK

  • 55.1 FG% | 27.5 3P% | 54.3 FT%

  • 22 Games | 34.6 MIN

#43. BROOKLYN NETS (via ATL) — Ryan Conwell | G | Louisville

• Profile: 6’4”, 215

• Year: Senior (21)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 18.9 PTS | 5.0 REB | 2.7 AST | 1.3 STL | 0.2 BLK

  • 41.0 FG% | 36.3 3P% | 83.5 FT%

  • 23 Games | 29.9 MIN

#44. DENVER NUGGETS (via LAC) — Dillon Mitchell | F | St. John’s

• Profile: 6’8”, 210

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 9.4 PTS | 7.2 REB | 2.6 AST | 1.3 STL | 0.8 BLK

  • 56.6 FG% | 0.0 3P% | 56.1 FT%

  • 24 Games | 26.9 MIN

#45. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (via MIA) — Jaden Bradley | G | Arizona

• Profile: 6’3”, 200

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 13.5 PTS | 3.5 REB | 4.5 AST | 1.9 STL | 0.0 BLK

  • 50.0 FG% | 42.1 3P% | 80.0 FT%

  • 24 Games | 28.8 MIN

#46. ORLANDO MAGIC — Richie Saunders | G | BYU

• Profile: 6’5", 200

• Year: Senior (24)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 19.0 PTS | 5.9 REB | 2.2 AST | 1.8 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 49.1 FG% | 38.8 3P% | 81.9 FT%

  • 23 Games | 32.6 MIN

#47. CHARLOTTE HORNETS (via GSW) — Braden Smith | G | Purdue

• Profile: 6’0”, 170

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 15.2 PTS | 3.7 REB | 8.7 AST | 1.8 STL | 0.2 BLK

  • 49.6 FG% | 42.7 3P% | 78.1 FT%

  • 23 Games | 33.5 MIN

#48. HOUSTON ROCKETS (via PHI) — Amani Hansberry | F/C | Virginia Tech

• Profile: 6’8”, 240

• Year: Junior

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 15.2 PTS | 8.2 REB | 2.7 AST | 1.6 STL | 0.7 BLK

  • 49.0 FG% | 33.3 3P% | 71.9 FT%

  • 23 Games | 31.6 MIN

#49. TORONTO RAPTORS — Zvonimir Ivisic | C | Illinois

• Profile: 7’2”, 245

• Year: Junior (22)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 10.0 PTS | 5.5 REB | 1.5 AST | 0.3 STL | 0.6 BLK

  • 48.4 FG% | 34.7 3P% | 67.9 FT%

  • 21 Games | 24.7 MIN

#50. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS (via CLE) - Tarris Reed Jr. | C | UConn

• Profile: 6’11”, 265

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 14.0 PTS | 7.7 REB | 2.1 AST | 1.1 STL | 2.0 BLK

  • 64.0 FG% | 0.0 3P% | 54.8 FT%

  • 19 Games | 25.8 MIN

#51. DALLAS MAVERICKS (via PHX) — Alex Karaban | F | UConn

• Profile: 6’8”, 230

• Year: Senior (23)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 13.5 PTS | 5.5 REB | 2.3 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.9 BLK

  • 47.8 FG% | 42.1 3P% | 81.8 FT%

  • 24 Games | 33.6 MIN

#52. WASHINGTON WIZARDS (via MIN) — Juke Harris | G | Wake Forest

• Profile: 6’7”, 200

• Year: Sophomore (20)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 21.1 PTS | 6.4 REB | 1.6 AST | 1.6 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 45.7 FG% | 36.1 3P% | 77.1 FT%

  • 23 Games | 33.3 MIN

#53. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS (via LAL) - Milan Momcilovic | F | Iowa State

• Profile: 6’8”, 225

• Year: Junior (21)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 18.7 PTS | 3.2 REB | 0.9 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 55.0 FG% | 53.3 3P% | 90.0 FT%

  • 23 Games | 29.3 MIN

#54. HOUSTON ROCKETS — John Blackwell | G | Wisconsin

• Profile: 6’4”, 203

• Year: Junior (20)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 18.5 PTS | 5.1 REB | 2.3 AST | 1.3 STL | 0.0 BLK

  • 40.8 FG% | 36.7 3P% | 85.3 FT%

  • 22 Games | 33.1 MIN

#55. NEW YORK KNICKS — Rueben Chinyelu | C | Florida

• Profile: 6’10”, 265

• Year: Junior (22)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 12.0 PTS | 11.5 REB | 0.7 AST | 0.7 STL | 1.1 BLK

  • 61.6 FG% | 0.0 3P% | 68.2 FT%

  • 23 Games | 24.5 MIN

#56. CHICAGO BULLS (via DEN) — Jeremy Fears Jr. | G | Michigan State

• Profile: 6’2”, 190

• Year: Junior (20)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 15.1 PTS | 2.7 REB | 9.1 AST | 1.3 STL | 0.0 BLK

  • 44..2 FG% | 25.4 3P% | 89.9 FT%

  • 24 Games | 31.5 MIN

#57. ATLANTA HAWKS (via BOS) — Emanuel Sharp | G | Houston

• Profile: 6’3”, 205

• Year: Senior (21)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 15.8 PTS | 3.0 REB | 2.0 AST | 1.2 STL | 0.1 BLK

  • 42.6 FG% | 36.5 3P% | 87.7 FT%

  • 23 Games | 29.3 MIN

#58. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (via SAS) — Duke Miles | G | Vanderbilt

• Profile: 6’2”, 180

• Year: Senior (24)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 16.6 PTS | 3.0 REB | 4.3 AST | 2.8 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 45.1 FG% | 34.1 3P% | 88.7 FT%

  • 18 Games | 29.0 MIN

#59. NEW YORK KNICKS (via DET) — Billy Richmond III | G | Arkansas

• Profile: 6’6”, 205

• Year: Sophomore (19)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 8.8 PTS | 3.7 REB | 1.7 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.6 BLK

  • 56.7 FG% | 22.9 3P% | 75.6 FT%

  • 23 Games | 22.5 MIN

#60. WASHINGTON WIZARDS (via OKC) — Keyshawn Hall | F | Auburn

• Profile: 6’7”, 225

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 2/2/26):

  • 21.0 PTS | 7.0 REB | 2.7 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.8 BLK

  • 46.5 FG% | 39.6 3P% | 85.6 FT%

  • 22 Games | 33.4 MIN

Share No Ceilings

You all know what time it is.

The calendar has flipped over to 2026, as the top players in college basketball face down their conference schedules on the road to March Madness. Meanwhile, some NBA fans are turning increasingly toward the draft as most NBA teams reach the halfway point in their seasons with some clarity about their place in the playoff picture.

For us here at No Ceilings, though, it’s draft time, just like usual. The start of each new month of the season means another Mock Draft from the No Ceilings team.

For those of you who are new to the No Ceilings Mock Draft experience, our No Ceilings crew gathers behind the scenes to go through all 60 picks. The team discusses each and every pick, trying to best match player and team. We also provide write-ups for all 30 picks in the first round.

For those of you who are part of the No Ceilings + crew, we will release the video of the Mock Draft later today to get all of the details of our decisions. For now, though, it’s time to get another Mock Draft on the record.

***Draft Order BELOW is of NBA Standings from 1/11/26***

Enjoy, No Ceilings family!

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#1. INDIANA PACERS — Darryn Peterson | G | Kansas

• Profile: 6’6”, 205

• Year: Freshman (18)

• Stats (as of 1/13/26):

  • 21.8 PTS | 4.8 REB | 2.0 AST | 1.1 STL | 0.9 BLK

  • 46.7 FG% | 40.0 3P% | 88.4 FT%

Metcalf: This season has been a nightmare for the Pacers after coming off an NBA Finals appearance, but walking away with one of the best guard prospects of the century is a heck of a consolation prize. Darryn Peterson’s infusion of shot creation, athleticism, defensive upside, and secondary creation is exactly what you’d hope for from a shooting guard next to Tyrese Haliburton. Their ability to stretch the floor, make quick decisions, and play with pace would immediately make them one of the most fun offenses in the league. We did consider AJ Dybantsa and Cameron Boozer here as well, but the majority opinion is still that Peterson’s current talent and upside are too much to pass on at the top spot. The Pacers would have one of the most exciting backcourts in the league for the next ten years, and it’s tough to imagine that Rick Carlisle wouldn’t get the very best out of Peterson.

#2. SACRAMENTO KINGS — AJ Dybantsa | F | BYU

• Profile: 6’9”, 210

• Year: Freshman (18)

• Stats (as of 1/13/26):

  • 22.9 PTS | 7.1 REB | 3.9 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.5 BLK

  • 58.1 FG% | 32.6 3P% | 74.6 FT%

Nick: The No Ceilings crew got into a lengthy discussion here about the difficult but fantastic theoretical choice facing the Sacramento Kings here with the #2 pick in this exercise. Ultimately, the team ended up going with BYU star AJ Dybantsa, in no small part due to him having arguably the highest upside in the class. Dybantsa would form a fascinating forward pairing with Keegan Murray, and Murray’s continued rise as a top-tier defender would both give Dybantsa room to explore the offensive studio space while also helping Dybantsa to learn how to take advantage of his spectacular athletic tools to become a serious defensive menace.

#3. ATLANTA HAWKS (via NOLA) — Cameron Boozer | F | Duke

• Profile: 6’9”, 250

• Year: Freshman (18)

• Stats (as of 1/13/26):

  • 22.9 PTS | 9.5 REB | 4.2 AST | 1.9 STL | 0.7 BLK

  • 57.9 FG% | 38.1 3P% | 77.5 FT%

Stephen: I’m not sure how many times we use the whole “taking so-and-so isn’t a bad consolation prize” with the #3 pick in the draft, but let’s do that here with Cameron Boozer. Cam doesn’t offer the sexy highlight reels that some of the other top prospects in this class do, but all he does is win. If you’re concerned with how he will be able to take a team of players that aren’t as good as the other teams he’ll play against in the NBA, look at this Duke team. Boozer serves as the de facto point guard, and has an Assist Percentage of 26.6! That’s with an Assist-to-Turnover Ratio of 1.8! As a big!

#4. WASHINGTON WIZARDS — Caleb Wilson | F | North Carolina

• Profile: 6’10”, 215

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 1/13/26):

  • 19.5 PTS | 11.0 REB | 2.7 AST | 1.4 STL | 1.4 BLK

  • 57.3 FG% | 25.0 3P% | 69.8 FT%

Jam: After holding a 14% chance for the first pick and a 52.1% chance of landing a Top 4 pick in last year’s draft, Washington was dealt a tough blow and fell to the sixth spot. Still, the franchise appears to have landed a foundational piece in Tre Johnson. This could be a bit of déjà vu, with the basketball gods not blessing them in terms of their draft position, but the organization still ends up with a foundational player.

In Caleb Wilson, Washington selects not only a foundational player, but a potential perennial two-way All-Star with superstar upside and a chip on his shoulder. Wilson’s ridiculous marriage of physical tools and motor gives him a high floor as a play finisher on offense and a switchable disruptor on the defensive end. His evolving ball skills, tough shotmaking, and passing feel represent an exciting offensive foundation to believe in. The fit alongside Alex Sarr provides the Wizards with an incredible two-way 4-5 combination in the frontcourt that could terrorize the NBA for the next decade while shaping a Washington defensive identity that’s built for the present and future, either with or without newly acquired star Trae Young.

#5. BROOKLYN NETS — Kingston Flemings | G | Houston

• Profile: 6’4”, 190

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 1/13/26):

  • 15.4 PTS | 3.4 REB | 5.2 AST | 1.9 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 51.6 FG% | 38.5 3P% | 79.6 FT%

Paige: I know what you all are probably thinking…another guard, really? The answer is that Flemings is the highest upside and available player at fifth overall, and it just so happens this is where the Nets are picking. However, I actually really love this pairing of Flemings and Egor Demin for Brooklyn’s future. Add in Flemings’s athleticism, defensive tenacity, high IQ pace/reads, and three-level scoring ability, and he’s the kind of two-way, gritty, competitive, and explosive player who can be the foundation for the Nets to take the franchise from a rebuild to a rebirth.

#6. UTAH JAZZ — Jayden Quaintance | C | Kentucky

• Profile: 6’10”, 255

• Year: Sophomore (18)

• Stats (as of 1/13/26):

  • 5.0 PTS | 5.0 REB | 0.5 AST | 0.5 STL | 0.8 BLK

  • 57.1 FG% | 0.0 3P% | 30.8 FT%

Corey: With the Utah Jazz ranking last in the NBA in defensive rating, they select a player whose impact on that end will be felt in a major way by taking Kentucky’s Jayden Quaintance. Though his offensive game has significant flaws (career 53% TS% as a big), Quaintance is a defensive monster (career 9.4% BLK%, 2.1% STL%) whose rumored 7’5” wingspan, elite mobility, and explosive leaping ability make him a scheme-versatile menace. JQ can protect the rim with both hands, aggressively hedge on guards and recover, and use his “go-go gadget arms” to disrupt passing lanes and strip his man on the ball. Though a sophomore, Quaintance will be just 18 years old on draft night. He has the potential to be a foundational defensive talent, an All-NBA caliber defender, and someone who could immediately bolster the league’s most porous defensive unit.

#7. DALLAS MAVERICKS — Mikel Brown Jr. | G | Louisville

• Profile: 6’5”, 190

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 1/13/26):

  • 16.6 PTS | 3.0 REB | 5.1 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.1 BLK

  • 38.1 FG% | 26.8 3P% | 83.8 FT%

Rucker: The Dallas Mavericks struck gold when they landed Cooper Flagg last year. With the Mavericks continuing to rebuild, this draft is another big opportunity to add some serious firepower for the foreseeable future. If a team is looking for a potential floor general to groom, this is the class to get it. It’s a DEEP class when it comes to the point guard position, and there’s plenty to pick from when it comes to what “flavor” you might want out of your lead guard. Louisville freshman Mikel Brown Jr. has been sidelined with a nagging back injury but is reportedly nearing a return to the court. When Brown is at full strength, he’s a dangerous floor-spacing asset with sensational quickness and playmaking vision. Adding him to the mix alongside Cooper Flagg would give the Mavericks a serious duo with tremendous upside for years to come.

#8. CHARLOTTE HORNETS — Darius Acuff Jr. | G | Arkansas

• Profile: 6’3”, 190

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 1/13/26):

  • 19.9 PTS | 2.8 REB | 5.9 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.4 BLK

  • 48.7 FG% | 42.5 3P% | 78.7 FT%

Stephen: There is so much to be said about a team that just takes players who they believe are good and who can contribute to their programs. Darius Acuff Jr. is such a player who can come in and contribute to Charlotte in meaningful ways. Many assumed that Acuff would come into this season more as a score-first point guard who would really need to work on his shooting and playmaking. However, the five-time SEC Freshman of the Week has an Assist Percentage of 32.9%—which ranks 31st in ALL of college basketball among players who have a Minutes Percentage of at least 70. That also ranks fifth among all freshmen. He is also shooting just under 43% from three on nine attempts per 100 possessions. Darius is a savvy scorer who can create his own shots–with and without screens. He also boasts a Block Percentage of 1.4, which shows a level of defensive capability that teams won’t get from other guard prospects.

Of course, there has to be some sort of consideration regarding LaMelo Ball’s long-term future with the Hornets, but that doesn’t inhibit Acuff from being a contributor on this team. Even if Ball stays, you can almost bet that he will miss 30ish games at a minimum. Darius would allow the Hornets to have another guard who can get players open. With Ball, you have great guard depth–with the ability to be able to pivot away from LaMelo should the need arise.

#9. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (via LAC) — Keaton Wagler | G | Illinois

• Profile: 6’6”, 180

• Year: Freshman (18)

• Stats (as of 1/13/26):

  • 15.7 PTS | 5.2 REB | 3.8 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 46.2 FG% | 41.3 3P% | 83.1 FT%

Corey: With the first selection from their never-ending treasure trove of assets, the Oklahoma City Thunder roll with Illinois breakout freshman Keaton Wagler, a smooth and cerebral wing whose offensive scoring polish and playmaking fit seamlessly into their DPS ecosystem. While not a dynamic athlete, Wagler’s crafty, funky pace allows him to create for himself and others, boasting an efficient 63.3 TS%, a 41.3 3PT%, and a savvy 2.5 AST/TOV ratio. Wagler provides the Thunder with another high-feel, versatile offensive connector with size, who can immediately space the floor and facilitate while complementing their star trio.

#10. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES — Yaxel Lendeborg | F | Michigan

• Profile: 6’9”, 240

• Year: Senior (23)

• Stats (as of 1/13/26):

  • 14.7 PTS | 6.9 REB | 3.3 AST | 1.3 STL | 1.4 BLK

  • 54.5 FG% | 35.4 3P% | 86.4 FT%

Paige: This past week, the Memphis Grizzlies announced that they are, for the first time, entertaining offers to trade Ja Morant. This was a long time coming, with the city of Memphis seemingly at a standstill in terms of having an NBA team with any positive direction. Jaren Jackson Jr. and rookie Cedric Coward have provided some stability for the future, but adding in Michigan’s 6’9”, 240-pound dribble, pass, shoot versatile forward Yaxel Lendeborg would give them a stable and reliable piece to the puzzle—not to mention that Yax is a leader on the court and has led Michigan to one of their best starts to a season in program history in only his first year with the Wolverines. In short, you know what you’re getting with Yax, and he can impact the game in so many ways that contribute to winning basketball—which is what the Grizzlies need.

#11. MILWAUKEE BUCKS — Koa Peat | F | Arizona

• Profile: 6’8”, 235

• Year: Freshman (18)

• Stats (as of 1/13/26):

  • 14.8 PTS | 5.8 REB | 2.9 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.7 BLK

  • 56.5 FG% | 23.1 3P% | 63.2 FT%

Rucker: Plenty will be keeping an eye on the Milwaukee Bucks as the NBA Trade Deadline nears. While Giannis Antetokounmpo continues to be the “elephant in the room” around the deadline, the realization is that this Milwaukee Bucks roster is starving for talent. The Bucks look to have struck gold with finding Ryan Rollins. But besides that, this Bucks roster needs to find some young talent to move forward with. While Milwaukee could look to get some additional backcourt depth, they could look to add another piece with great upside. Insert Arizona freshman forward Koa Peat. A tremendous pre-college resume, backed with youth and outstanding intangibles, Peat has been a winning player at every stop of his basketball background. He’s a bruiser inside who plays with great feel, and unlocking the outside shot would send his potential into another galaxy.

#12. CHICAGO BULLS — Braylon Mullins | G | UConn

• Profile: 6’6”, 196

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 1/13/26):

  • 11.7 PTS | 3.7 REB | 1.6 AST | 1.3 STL | 0.5 BLK

  • 48.2 FG% | 37.9 3P% | 81.8 FT%

Stephen: Braylon Mullins is a great get for any team, regardless of their immediate aspirations. If you want to win, he makes the lives of your stars a lot easier. If you have a roster full of players that you need to figure out, his floor spacing makes their lives easier as well. The Chicago Bulls want to play with pace and create easy shots. Their team is okay at shooting from deep–especially from their core players. Braylon fits into that identity, as he is a 39% three-point shooter who shoots more than 13 attempts per 100 possessions. But he can do so much more than simply shoot.

Mullins is a snappy decision-maker, and he has worked to show more and more of that while working his way back from an off-season injury. He’s also demonstrated some very sound defensive ability. His 2.6 Steals Percentage has risen week over week. He’s shown the ability to compete on the glass and to play with pace. His relocation ability would work well playing alongside a jumbo playmaker like Josh Giddey. As Mullins continues to show good production in Coach Hurley’s system, he could continue to rise in this 2026 NBA Draft Class.

#13. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (via ATL) — Amari Allen | F | Alabama

• Profile: 6’8”, 205

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 1/13/26):

  • 11.7 PTS | 7.8 REB | 3.4 AST | 1.0 STL | 1.0 BLK

  • 45.8 FG% | 37.1 3P% | 74.6 FT%

Metcalf: It’s safe to say that the San Antonio Spurs are pretty set at the guard and center positions. Their wing depth and versatility could still use some work, though, even if some guys are having a great year. Amari Allen would fit right in from a stylistic and upside standpoint. Allen has been one of the most surprising freshmen this season with his passing, defense, shooting, and rebounding. He’s one of these Swiss Army knife-type wings; he has great feel, and he does a bit of everything. Gauging the upside for Allen is tough, as he’s sort of come out of nowhere from a draft perspective. At a minimum, though, Allen’s ability to fill in the gaps of a rotation while still having a ton of potential is very exciting for this Spurs team that already looks ready to win.

#14. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS — Hannes Steinbach | F | Washington

• Profile: 6’11”, 220

• Year: Freshman (19)

• Stats (as of 1/13/26):

  • 18.4 PTS | 11.0 REB | 1.7 AST | 1.1 STL | 0.8 BLK

  • 58.0 FG% | 33.3 3P% | 77.3 FT%

Nick: The Portland Trail Blazers close out the lottery here by filling out their arsenal of young big men with a star center from just across the state line. Washington’s Hannes Steinbach has been on an absolute tear since his head-turning performance for Germany in the recent FIBA U19 World Cup, and he has extended that dominance in his NCAA play. While his three-point percentage has fallen off a bit in recent weeks, he is still absolutely mauling opponents on the glass on both ends while shooting 62.0% on his two-pointers and getting to the free-throw line almost six times a game. His plus interior passing and his ability to play alongside other big men at Washington make it easier to imagine him fitting in with Portland’s stable of young bigs, and having Donovan Clingan waiting on the back line will certainly help make up for Steinbach’s relative lack of shot-blocking.

#15. MIAMI HEAT — Labaron Philon | G | Alabama

• Profile: 6’4”, 185

• Year: Sophomore (20)

• Stats (as of 1/13/26):

  • 21.9 PTS | 3.4 REB | 4.9 AST | 1.4 STL | 0.3 BLK

  • 54.3 FG% | 37.6 3P% | 76.1 FT%

Jam: Philon’s competitive fire and two-way play would bring another viable impact guard to Miami. There are understandably still some skeptics about Philon’s three-point shooting jump on more volume (31.5% on 3.4 3PA to 36.3% on 5.3 3PA), but the production and confidence are undeniable. Whether or not you believe “Heat Culture” is overrated, Miami has consistently developed players and helped them max out their potential. Philon checks many of the boxes that Miami covets and could be an ideal fit, especially without Rozier and potentially Tyler Herro, who seems to always be mentioned in trade scenarios involving the Heat.

#16. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES (via ORL) — Cameron Carr | G | Baylor

• Profile: 6’5”, 175

• Year: Sophomore (21)

• Stats (as of 1/13/26):

  • 20.5 PTS | 5.3 REB | 2.0 AST | 0.7 STL | 1.7 BLK

  • 54.5 FG% | 39.7 3P% | 76.0 FT%

Stephen: The Memphis Grizzlies are in a position where they are fielding offers for Ja Morant. Does that mean they should target Ja’s replacement here with the 16th pick in a class that figures to be deep at his position? Maybe, but that’s without even knowing who the Grizz will even get back in a deal. That said, Memphis is going to do something here that they’ve already told us they like doing, and that’s get a wing player with a crazy wingspan. Enter Cam Carr.

Cam Carr isn’t a stranger to Tennessee, having played for the Volunteers his first two seasons in college–albeit sparingly. This year at Baylor, Carr has shown a unique skill set. He has proven to be one of the best, tough shot makers in all of college basketball, ranking in the 97th percentile in guarded jumpers, hitting on 50% of his contested threes. Defensively, Carr shows immense bounce, and he has recorded a Block Percentage of 5! That’s higher than Nate Ament, Tounde Yessoufou, and Koa Peat. Though listed at 6’5”, Cameron has a wingspan of 7’2”! This is very much in line with what Memphis has shown to value in their recent draft history.

#17. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS — Aday Mara | C | Michigan

• Profile: 7’3”, 255

• Year: Junior (20)

• Stats (as of 1/13/26):

  • 10.1 PTS | 7.9 REB | 2.4 AST | 0.5 STL | 2.5 BLK

  • 65.6 FG% | 0 3P% | 41.9 FT%

Corey: Still seemingly caught between two timelines, the Warriors make a move to address a glaring need by selecting Michigan center Aday Mara. Once a potential Top 5 prospect whose hype dimmed after an underwhelming two years at UCLA, the 7’3” Mara has re-emerged as one of college basketball’s most impactful players. He’s a premier rim protector, pairing his massive frame with intriguing scoring, and—most enticingly for Golden State—crafty passing ability that fits seamlessly into Steve Kerr’s offensive philosophy. With Quentin Post as their only player listed above 6’9”, Mara injects genuine size and defensive anchor potential into a roster severely lacking it.

#18. ATLANTA HAWKS (via CLE) — Bennett Stirtz | G | Iowa

• Profile: 6’4”, 190

• Year: Senior (22)

• Stats (as of 1/13/26):

  • 17.6 PTS | 2.4 REB | 5.1 AST | 1.6 STL | 0.1 BLK

  • 48.2 FG% | 39.4 3P% | 81.9 FT%

Stephen: Stirtz has had an interesting season, coming into this cycle with some degree of expectation. In his first season playing for a high-major program in Iowa, Bennett’s counting numbers have taken an ever-so-slight step backward. What’s been encouraging is that his efficiency has been roughly the same. To phrase it nicely, Stirtz is doing a lot for the Hawkeyes, and he does get the brunt of the attention in the scouting report. Considering that intensity in competition in conjunction with the level of defensive attention he commands, Stirtz has still been stellar.

With Trae Young being traded, the Hawks don’t have to go with another Point Guard in the draft, but adding Stirtz does give the team floor spacing (39% on 10.3 attempts per 100 possessions), as well as some playmaking (27.1 Assist Percentage). He does well in the paint, as he ranked in the 57th percentile scoring at the rim, which gives him some offensive balance. The Hawks will be able to add a player who gives some of what you’re losing in Trae, but at a fraction of the cost and role dedication.

#19. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (via PHI) — Thomas Haugh | F | Florida

• Profile: 6’9”, 215

• Year: Junior (22)

• Stats (as of 1/13/26):

  • 17.4 PTS | 6.6 REB | 2.2 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.8 BLK

  • 47.8 FG% | 34.4 3P% | 75.0 FT%

Stephen: There really isn’t a “wrong” answer here for the Oklahoma City Thunder at this point, considering that they have added Keaton Wagler to an already impressive roster. One of the main points that has come up regarding how their team matches up with the San Antonio Spurs is size. Thomas Haugh is no Victor Wembanyama, but he is able to provide this team with some size at the four, along with a more modern skill set than they currently have on their roster.

One of the bigger concerns with Haugh was whether or not he could play the Small Forward spot for the Florida Gators this season. Not only has he played there, but he has been much better than expected. He’s shown to be a very good driver from the perimeter, which helps him project to be a floor-spacing four much more clearly. He’s not a lights-out shooter, but he has shown improvement and will likely be someone teams will need to pay attention to. Where he really gives the Thunder value is in his hustle, rebounding, and defense–not too dissimilar to what they saw in Brooks Barnhizer, but with much more upside.

#20. TORONTO RAPTORS — Karim Lopez | F | NZ Breakers

• Profile: 6’8”, 220

• Year: 2007 Born (18)

• Stats (as of 1/13/26):

  • 10.6 PTS | 5.6 REB | 2.0 AST | 1.2 STL | 1.0 BLK

  • 49.3 FG% | 32.5 3P% | 75.0 FT%

Nick: After a bit of a wobble in early December, the Toronto Raptors appear to have righted the ship; the team sitting as the fourth seed in the East halfway through their season makes it seem like they are now here to stay. Still, even with them being one of the most pleasant surprises of the young season, the Raptors are still lacking in terms of positional size—and size overall, with Jakob Poeltl as the only player above 6’9” on the roster. Enter star forward Karim Lopez, the top international prospect in the class, who has been plying his craft in the NBL for the New Zealand Breakers for his second straight season. Lopez’s three-point percentage has fallen off in recent weeks, but the 6’8” forward still has a wide variety of tools on both ends of the floor. Lopez has also taken a significant step forward in terms of his finishing around the basket this year, which elevates the rest of his complementary skill set.

#21. CHARLOTTE HORNETS (via PHX) — Morez Johnson Jr. F/C | Michigan

• Profile: 6’9”, 250

• Year: Sophomore (19)

• Stats (as of 1/13/26):

  • 14.2 PTS | 6.5 REB | 1.2 AST | 0.9 STL | 1.3 BLK

  • 68.9 FG% | 44.4 3P% | 80.4 FT%