Live Scouting Notebook From the 2026 Big East Tournament
Corey Tulaba was live at night one of the Big East Tourney to see a number of 2026 NBA Draft prospects, with notes on Chase Ross, Nigel James Jr., Ryan Mela, Stefan Vaaks, Jovan Milicevic, and more.
In what is one of my favorite traditions every year, I was once again privileged to scout the Big East Tourney at Madison Square Garden. The Big East Tournament is one of New York basketball’s foremost traditions—littered with NBA prospects, passionate crowds, and providing one with the perfect opportunity for in-depth NBA Draft scouting for both the short and long term.
Below are my thoughts on some of the most intriguing prospects I saw in NYC.
Chase Ross - Marquette, 6’4” Power Guard
Chase Ross has been one of “my guys” for a few years now.
The 6’4” power guard boasts an intriguing combination of frame, athleticism, and motor—operating as the perfect ancillary weapon playing off of high usage guards like Tyler Kolek and Kam Jones throughout his college career. The question with Chase was always whether or not there could be more than met the eye, and with Kolek and Jones departing for the NBA over the last couple of seasons, Ross would have the opportunity to show what he could offer in a more featured role during his senior campaign.
