2026 NBA Mock Draft V.5
The No Ceilings crew installs V.5 of their Mock Draft for the 2026 NBA Draft.
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
A couple of comments
1. The Toronto Raptors need shooters and guards. With their FRP they should be targeting Christian Andersen and Momcilovic with another later pick (that they would buy or trade for)
2. I was very surprised to read yesterday that John Hollinger, a profoundly knowledgeable guy, did not really know how much some of these underclassmen could get in the NIL portal. This draft of yours ignores that problem. This is the elephant in the room. As draft and college prospect experts your team needs to suss out a pay scale and player rankings in the NIL portal. There are always caveats, like the money is only for one year and a year at an elite college is better than a year in the G League. Still, as a member of the unwashed, know-nothing, armchair expert class, I need some orientation.
Thank-you for all your work.
any thoughts or opinions on nick martinelli getting picked?