Latest NBA Mock Draft as 2025-26 Seasons Tips Off

The start of the NBA season means scouts are already spread around the country attending college practices and preseason games.

This upcoming draft has the chance to change the trajectory for multiple rebuilding franchises. The top of the 2026 board is being billed as one of the most exciting in recent memory, with an eligible guard, wing and big each possessing No. 1 overall caliber talent.

NIL has also helped bring back a handful of quality prospects who generated first-round interest last June.

Using our post-NBA Finals power rankings as the basis for the order, here's our early look at how the 2026 NBA draft could play out.

Position: SG | Size: 6'6", 205 lbs | Age: 18 | Pro Comp: Anthony Edwards

More polished than Anthony Edwards at the same age, Darryn Peterson projects as a similarly potent three-level scorer who can get his shot off at will, hit tough jumpers, create from the point of attack and make athletic plays at the rim.

With textbook 2-guard tools, athletic ability for finishing and defensive playmaking and high-level shot creation and shotmaking skills, he may be the most complete guard prospect of the decade.

Kansas figures to run a big portion of its offense through his transition speed, ball-screen navigation and one-two punch of driving and pull-up shooting. While he doesn't possess AJ Dybantsa's positional size or explosion, he's still a solid 6'5" with a combo-guard skill versatility and plenty of athletic pop for finishing and making wild defensive plays.

Improving his catch-and-shoot game may be atop his to-do list. But on the ball, the eye test sees clear translatability with how sharp he's become at changing gears off the bounce, splitting defenses, hitting tough jumpers, scoring around the rim, leveraging his gravity into playmaking, forcing turnovers and erasing shots at the basket.

Position: PF | Size: 6'9", 250 lbs | Age: 18 | Pro Comp: Paolo Banchero

The Banchero comparisons should surface while Cameron Boozer shows the ability to handle, pass, step into jumpers and play physical around the basket.

Front offices are divided on Boozer and AJ Dybantsa, who offer contrasting strengths. The former is known for his fundamentals and winning intangibles, while the latter earns attention for his size, explosiveness, and highlight-reel scoring.

Dybantsa may wind up with the more exciting highlight reels, but rebuilding teams may become more comfortable with Boozer's ability to impact games, along with the fact that he's 6'10", 250 pounds, owns the paint, initiates offense and shot 37.7 percent on 210 three-point attempts last year between high school and EYBL.

His perimeter game continues to improve—not just with his shooting, but his ability to handle, create for himself and score off ball screens and one-on-one moves.

Boozer should have a strong top-two case with his physical tools, expanding versatility, expected production/efficiency and decision-making/maturity.

Position: SF | Size: 6'9" | Age: 18 | Pro Comp: Tracy McGrady

The T-Mac comparisons are inevitable for Dybantsa, who shares similar size, athletic traits, advanced shotmaking and passing skill.

The tape from Dybantsa's 30-point preseason debut against Nebraska showed a 19-year-old with extraordinary positional tools, creativity and shotmaking skill.

He aced the test in BYU's opener, scoring from three levels using his physicality, high release point in the mid-range, handle to attack and shooting range.

Position: SF | Size: 6'10", 207 lbs | Age: 18 | Pro Comp: Zaccharie Risacher

Nate Ament's positional size, shotmaking potential and defensive tools could remind scouts of Zaccharie Risacher, another big shotmaking guard.

He's toward the top tier in the 2026 class with guard-like fluidity at 6'9" and improving ball-handling and shooting skills.

He is still raw and can execute unevenly, partly due to his lean 190-pound frame. He's likely to struggle with physicality, but his combination of size, shot creation, and defensive quickness is rare for a wing.

Scouts are willing to be patient, even if Ament has stretches impacted by his lack of strength or low shooting percentages.

Position: PF | Size: 6'10", 255 lbs | Age: 18 | Pro Comp: Bam Adebayo

Jayden Quaintance isn't the same level of offensive player as Bam Adebayo, but he's similar defensively with his rim protection and movement, and the 18-year-old has flashed glimpses of shooting range, post play and passing.

Last February's ACL tears complicate projections for Quaintance. We don't know his return date, minutes workload, rustiness, desire to go pro or NBA teams' level of interest if he doesn't play much.

He played 24 games as a 17-year-old last year, giving scouts plenty to consider for his long-term potential. He's one of the youngest players in this class, not turning 19 until after the 2026 draft. At Arizona State, he averaged 9.4 points per game, shot 60% inside the arc, and posted an impressive 9.8% block rate—all standout numbers for a freshman.

While he still has to improve his shooting range and overall half-court creation, he'll offer the type of functional physical tools, instincts and potential skill set that can translate to scoring efficiency and a special defensive impact in the NBA.

Position: PF | Size: 6'10", 215 lbs | Age: 19 | Pro Comp: Jonathan Isaac

At 6'10", Caleb Wilson shares Jonathan Isaac's ability to provide both rim protection and wing defense.

Wilson's defensive potential figures to pop first at North Carolina. We're going to see sequences of a 6'9" player making on-ball, recovery and weak-side blocks.

There will be questions about his offensive fit and upside as a scorer. Despite high-school flashes, it's difficult to project a reliable creator or shooter at the moment.

Scouts should still detect value and translatable finishing tied to his tools and athleticism that come alive in transition, off cuts and under the glass.

Enough strong elbow drives and mid-range jumpers could help spark scouts' imaginations and push Wilson further into the top 10.

Position: PG | Size: 6'5", 180 lbs | Age: 18 | Pro Comp: Darius Garland

Mikel Brown Jr. reminds of a bigger Darius Garland with his shiftiness and shooting off the dribble.

His stock is hot following the U19 World Cup when he shot 47.6 percent from three and totaled 43 assists to 15 turnovers.

Validating those numbers with consistent shooting and playmaking reads at Louisville should lock him into the lottery discussion all season. He's shifty and elusive off the dribble, capable of breaking down defenses, creating opportunities and putting pressure on the rim.

We'll have a close eye on his thin frame on finishing attempts and whether he's able to earn himself quality looks on a regular basis.

With Louisville listing Brown at 6'5", a number that says he could play either guard spot, he may even have some margin for error with his decision-making.

Position: PF | Size: 6'8", 235 lbs | Age: 18 | Pro Comp: Carlos Boozer

Koa Peat reminds of Carlos Boozer with his strong frame and ability to make shots from the mid-range and post.

With four gold medals for USA since 2022, Peat has had a steady presence atop recruiting ranks and under scouts' watch.

He has a knack for creating and getting to his spot slowly but methodically. At around 235 pounds, he's fluid when timing his pull-up or step-back, always in rhythm. Strength, balance and touch are evident and used most in his offensive attack.

Right now, he's more efficient in the mid-range or post area, but he continues to make an effort to add the three-ball to his everyday repertoire.

Peat is 6'8" without much speed or explosion, so questions will arise over his upside at both ends of the floor. But he still has the right body to produce or disrupt defensive inside, and his handle and shot have made encouraging strides. He's also seemingly productive in every setting he's played in.

Position: SG | Size: 6'4", 205 lbs | Age: 20 | Pro Comp: Anfernee Simons

Brayden Burries is a pure scoring guard with self-creation and shooting skills tailor-made for NBA offenses.

One of the top scoring guards in the 2025 high school class, he should give Arizona an instant injection of creation and ball-screen offense.

At 6'4", 205 pounds, he has a strong mix of size, strength and touch for driving and tossing in floaters. He does most of his damage at the rim or behind the arc, where he's a confident shotmaker but still needs to become more consistent.

He should offer enough passing flashes for scouts to picture a combo at the next level. But there won't be any mistaking his NBA money-making skill, which is putting the ball in the basket from on or off the ball.

Burries should be a high pick if he can avoid concerns over lacking playmaking upside or explosiveness.

Position: PF | Size: 6'11", 240 lbs | Age: 18 | Pro Comp: Kel'el Ware

Chris Cenac has center size and a high offensive skill level with the ability to make tough jumpers from the key out to the arc.

Houston will mostly use and value his lob catching, dunker's spot finishing, defensive court coverage and rim protection.

But he's going to generate more NBA attention and draft buzz with his ball-handling and shotmaking flashes.

Cenac might project as a power forward rather than a center because of his perimeter skills. He has a high motor, but sometimes forces the issue trying to play like a wing, which can lead to tough, low-percentage shots.

Though he plays with a live motor, he can occasionally try too hard to play like a wing, resulting in lower-percentage or forced shots. Houston and scouts will still want to make sure he's effective completing typical big-man plays like rebounding, screening and playing through physical contact inside at both ends.

And he'll need to execute the drives, fallaways and threes with enough efficiency to convince scouts they're real and on track to translate.

Position: PG | Size: 6'4", 205 lbs | Age: 18 | Pro Comp: Andre Miller

Boozer is a novelty at point guard with his combination of size, pacing, cleverness and ability to score and play-make without exciting athletic traits.

He won't look like one of today's modern, high-powered point guards who can operate as a top scoring option.

There are still sure to be NBA teams that become fans of his unteachable feel running offense, making smart passing reads and setting up teammates up in high-percentage spots.

His IQ shows at both ends of the floor, with Boozer showing anticipation as both a playmaker and defender.

He may not put up big scoring numbers due to his unselfishness, especially on a loaded Duke roster. Still, he has grown into a reliable shooter, both from three-point range and the mid-range, and he shows excellent touch on floaters.

Position: SG/SF | Size: 6'5", 215 lbs | Age: 19 | Nationality: USA/Benin | Pro Comp: Cam Whitmore

Tounde Yessoufou features a rare combination of power and explosion for finishing and defending. Flashes of self-creation and shotmaking hint at untapped scoring potential.

He will replace VJ Edgecombe at Baylor and similarly look to show improving offensive skills that complement his powerful tools and explosion.

Previously valued mostly for his physical frame, athleticism and motor—a combination he used for transition, defense and rebounding—he has delivered more and more signs that he's morphing into an interchangeable wing from a combo forward.

Potential weaknesses or concerns to monitor that could slow down interest: inconsistent shooting and lack of playmaking.

Position: SG/SF | Size: 6'6", 220 lbs | Age: 18 | Pro Comp: Danny Green

Isiah Harwell has the body, shooting stroke and defensive tools to play a key three-and-D role at the college and pro levels.

At 6'6", 200 pounds, he should look like an obvious three-and-D prospect at Houston.

He's developed into a reliable catch-and-shooter who also gets elevation and balance on his mid-range pull-ups. Defensively, he's aggressive off the ball and shows a knack for jumping passing lanes and creating events.

Harwell doesn't provide significant rim pressure, as his creation mostly comes around the perimeter. But he should look like an easy choice with an adaptable game for both college and the pros.

Position: SG | Size: 6'5", 190 lbs | Age: 19 | Pro Comp: Payton Pritchard

Braylon Mullins hits on three notes: shooting efficiency, defensive toughness and IQ. He will be one of the top freshmen shooters whose 6'5" size and shotmaking diversity will interest NBA scouts.

In the Adidas 3SSB circuit last year, he shot 41.7 percent from three but also racked up 19 dunks in 20 games, showing he can thrive behind the arc and play above the rim.

At Connecticut, he'll likely be used mostly off the ball spotting up, hitting movement threes and cutting. However, Mullins can be a lethal transition player as well with his quick release, pull-up game and athleticism.

Position: PF | Size: 6'8", 225 lbs | Age: 18 | Nationality: Mexico | Pro Comp: Patrick Williams

Karim Lopez has serious upside with an enticing package of scoring versatility and positional strength.

Playing his second season in the NBL and still 18 years old until April, he has produced early with his physical tools and shooting. He's made 11-of-24 threes so far, an intriguing development after he hit 21 total last season.

His defensive alertness has wavered at times, but scouts will mostly be forgiving. At his size and age, the ability to attack ball screens and closeouts and hit spot-up threes creates coveted versatility from the 4 position.

Position: PG | Size: 6'4", 185 lbs | Age: 19 | Pro Comp: Elfrid Payton

More shooting development could alter Labaron Philon Jr.'s projection, but for now he looks like a sturdy point guard who can run an offense and get to his spots without explosion.

With Alabama's primary initiator Mark Sears gone, Philon went off for 28 points in his first preseason action. His three made threes were notable, and signs of convincing improvement will result in more NBA love for one of the nation's more creative ball-handlers and touch specialists.

Position: SF | Size: 6'8", 190lbs | Age: 19 | Nationality: Italy | Pro Comp: Justise Winslow

Shooting will be a swing skill for Dame Sarr, whose size, athleticism, motor and shotmaking flashes will otherwise serve him well enough.

Sarr is going to look raw, but with offense running through Caleb Foster, Cameron Boozer and Isaiah Evans, the freshman's role figures to help showcase his athleticism, open-floor scoring and off-ball shotmaking.

On the ball, he delivered promising flashes last year with Barcelona, changing direction with his handle and attacking the rim.

Shooting will play an obvious factor in scouts' level of interest and whether Sarr will be one-and-done. He's been on and off from three in different settings, though his free-throw percentages have always been disappointing for a guard or wing.

Position: C | Size: 6'11" | Age: 19 | Nationality: Germany | Pro Comp: Moe Wagner

Hannes Steinbach is a skilled offensive-minded big who can play out of the post, pick-and-pop and pass, but isn't the dominant rim protector some teams may want at the 5.

He instantly stood out in Washington's preseason game against UNLV, finishing with 22 points and 16 boards while showing off his touch, IQ, footwork and athleticism in the open floor.

Washington figures to feature Steinbach in the half-court offense, which could allow him to showcase both his inside game, pick-and-roll skill set and developing scoring versatility.

Position: SF | Size: 6'6", 220 lbs | Age: 19 | Pro Comp: Marcus Morris

Karter Knox projects as a complementary scorer with three-level shotmaking skills and defensive tools.

He came alive in February last season, and now he's back at Arkansas after going through the draft process to join a team that lost four of its top five scorers.

Right as he started to get regular playing time after the new year, his confidence visibly started to build. The production followed.

Knox should receive starter minutes to use his powerful frame, athleticism downhill and shotmaking for transition and off-ball scoring.

Position: PG | Size: 6'1", 170lbs | Age: 19 | Pro Comp: Kemba Walker

Tahaad Pettiford overcomes limited size and strength with quickness, tight handles, creativity and confident shooting off the dribble.

A big bump in minutes and responsibility are coming, and they should ignite more confidence for the sophomore ball-handler to showcase his creativity, shotmaking and playmaking potential.

Pettiford was a highly productive pull-up shooter (63 makes) and an efficient pull-up threat (39.1 percent) with one of the nation's best floaters (51.4 percent).

He needs to finish better around the basket, and there will obviously be some skepticism around his size. But explosiveness and a 6'5½" wingspan do ease some concerns.

And there are no questions about his ability to create, get to spots, make tough shots and set up teammates.

There was first-round interest in Pettiford last year even though he started just one game for Auburn, which bodes well for next year's draft.

Position: C | Size: 6'11", 250 lbs | Age: 19 | Pro Comp: Jonas Valanciunas

Patrick Ngongba pairs a physical inside presence with low-post and passing skills.

There's nothing flashy about his game, nor is there any clear path to upside.

However, NBA teams could eventually see him as useful frontcourt depth, as the 6'11", 250-pound big has a special feel for how to finish plays/drives and deliver assists as a playmaking big.

He has excellent hands and patience around the basket, though he looks more interesting when he's facing up, attacking, taking methodical steps and converting driving layups.

Ngongba seemed to give positive minutes whenever he was on the floor last year, and a bigger role should be coming his way in 2025-26.

Position: SF | Size: 6'8", 205 lbs | Age: 19 | Pro comp: Trey Murphy III

Kam Williams enters the year on scouts' breakout radar at Kentucky after the 6'8" wing shot 41.2 percent from three and registered strong defensive playmaking rates at Tulane.

Unless he added to his game over the offseason, he'll work exclusively as a catch-and-shoot weapon, movement shooter, cutter and transition scorer.

Williams could look like a plug-and-play fit to scouts based on his body and off-ball skill set.

Position: PG | Size: 6'4", 190 lbs | Age: 22 | Pro Comp: Ty Jerome

Bennett Stirtz operates as both a lead ball-handler and connector with his shooting and passing IQ.

Despite earning attention from scouts after consecutive 21-point games in the NCAA tournament, he was quick to pass on the draft and announce a transfer to Iowa.

With advanced ball-handling, shooting, finishing feel and decision-making, he seems prepared to replicate last year's offensive success against more credible opponents.

Creativity, shotmaking, IQ and overwhelmingly strong analytics should help scouts see past his athletic limitations.

Position: SF | Size: 6'6", 180 lbs | Age: 19 | Pro Comp: AJ Griffin

With a larger sophomore role, Isaiah Evans should be aggressive this year showing more of the shot creation and scoring we saw in high school.

Playing off the ball last year, he graded in the 99th percentile in spot-up efficiency, per Synergy Sports, hitting 48.3 percent of those threes and showing signs of line-drive attacking and footwork off the dribble.

Even if he struggles to show new one-on-one play or playmaking, Evans may be an advanced enough shooter to interest scouts in the late first round.

Position: PF | Size: 6'9", 240 lbs | Age: 23 | Pro Comp: Al Harrington

Yaxel Lendeborg's scoring versatility was on full display during his 31-point debut with Michigan in a preseason game against Cincinnati.

He'll have a chance to build on last year's first-round interest if he's able to make another jump as a shooter.

Regardless, NBA teams figure to see a rotational prospect who has the body and motor to finish and offensive rebound, translatable passing skills and enough face-up game to score one-on-one in space. Strong mid-range, free-throw and floater percentages are also promising indicators for his potential to become a capable three-point threat.

Position: SG | Size: 6'5", 175 lbs | Age: 19 | Nationality: Spain | Pro Comp: Bogdan Bogdanovic

Sergio de Larrea is a confident shooting 2-guard who offers some secondary playmaking. He's off to a strong start for Valencia, making 14 of his first 25 threes while averaging 10.2 points and 3.5 assists.

De Larrea's 6'5" size, shooting and passing IQ help create an easy projected fit to operate as a ball-handler or floor-spacing shotmaker.

Position: C | Size: 7'3", 255 lbs | Age: 20 | Nationality: Spain | Pro Comp: Roy Hibbert

Despite the limited production, Mara had a bounce-back season at UCLA last year, blocking shots at an excellent rate and showing improvement with his post game and passing.

He should have a brighter spotlight this season at Michigan, where his 7'3" size, rim protection and rising skill level should pop.

Position: Combo guard | Size: 6'5", 198 lbs | Age: 18 | Nationality: Australia | Pro Comp: Dyson Daniels

Like his brother, Dyson, Dash Daniels is a combo guard with defensive instincts and offensive versatility but no signature scoring skill.

From the early NBL tape this season, he still looks more like a defensive-oriented guard who shows clear instincts and disruptive tools.

Daniels has been relatively efficient offensively, relying most on his drives and float game. Shooting will be an obvious swing skill—he's currently 5-of-16 from three and just 6-of-13 from the free-throw line.

Position: PF | Size: 6'9", 230 lbs | Age: 20 | Pro Comp: Brandon Clarke

There were scouts with a first-round grade on JT Toppin last May thanks to above-average activity around the basket and a soft touch in the key.

Even if it's difficult to envision pathways to upside for a 6'9" post player, there will be teams that see value and a high floor based on his consistent production, interior scoring instincts, unteachable short-range touch and offensive rebounding.

Despite underwhelming three-point and free-throw numbers, he did make 39.0 percent of his catch-and-shoot chances.

Moving up boards will be directly tied to Toppin's development from three.

Position: SF/PF | Size: 6'6", 225lbs | Age: 21 | Pro Comp: David Roddy

LeJuan Watts showcased intriguing versatility at Eastern Washington with his physicality, playmaking and shooting efficiency.

He will take Darrion Williams' spot at Texas Tech, where he'll be a potential breakout candidate alongside JT Toppin and Christian Anderson.

At 6'6", 225 pounds, Watts possesses an interesting mix of post skill and interior scoring feel with pick-and-roll ball-handling ability and the processing to average 4.4 assists per game.

Watts is a career 41.6 percent three-point shooter as well. He just hasn't taken threes with volume, and his pull-up game remains limited.

Position: PG/SG | Size: 6'5", 185 lbs | Age: 19 | Pro Comp: Jordan Clarkson

Meleek Thomas will draw comparisons to scoring specialists like Jordan Clarkson with the way he's able to self-create and hit tough shots.

He will have to compete for touches alongside DJ Wagner and Darius Acuff Jr. in the Arkansas backcourt. That could cut into his opportunity to develop his playmaking and sell scouts on primary-ball-handler/lead-guard potential.

Thomas should be able to generate attention and interest with his self-creation and shotmaking skill. At 6'5", he is a dangerous one-on-one player, capable of scoring off a variety of moves into drives, step-backs, turnaround and floaters.

It just seems possible to expect some freshman struggles around shot selection, physicality and role before entering 2026-27 more comfortable and free.

Position: PG/SG | Size: 6'3", 185 lbs | Age: 20 | Pro Comp: Jose Alvarado

Though Anthony Robinson II didn't blow up as a scorer last year, he checked a mix of valued boxes. He's on a short list of NCAA players to put up a 25.0 assist percentage, 5.0 steal percentage and a 60.0 true shooting percentage.

One of the nation's most efficient pick-and-roll ball-handlers, he shot 47.5 percent on pull-ups and showed touch on his floaters. He's a two-way playmaker with smart passing reads and who consistently earns strips, forcing turnovers with his quick hands and instincts, like a Jose Alvarado-type.

Tamar Bates and Caleb Grill leaving should result in a big spike in usage for Robinson, who will want to look more aggressive getting downhill and looking for his shot.

Position: SG/SF | Size: 6'6", 190 lbs | Age: 21 Pro Comp: Devin Carter

Miles Byrd has more size than Devin Carter, but they share similar scouting reports in terms of their shotmaking, defensive instincts and lack of explosion inside the arc.

With NBA wing size, Byrd's shotmaking and defensive instincts create an attractive archetype to scouts. But he did grade as one of the worst finishers among draft prospects last year, having shot just 45.2 percent on layups.

The lack of strength and explosion raise concerns, but if he can become consistent from deep and continue to make plays in ball-screen situations, Byrd should look like a serviceable connector who has a special ability to make defensive reads/plays.

Position: SF/PF | Size: 6'9", 215 lbs | Age: 22 | Pro Comp: Dean Wade

Thomas Haugh should have a bigger role to showcase a skill set the NBA typically covets in players 6'9" and bigger.

He could operate as a big wing or power forward with promising shooting range, clear passing IQ and strong mobility/athleticism for rim running and finishing.

Size: 6'11", 230 lbs | Age: 21 | Nationality: Australia Pro Comp: Meyers Leonard

Alex Condon generated first-round buzz this past year with his athletic finishing, defensive activity, passing and three-point range.

He'll return to the defending champs, presumably with a sizable role to use for showing more self-creation (face-up and post game) and consistent shooting.

Condon becomes less appealing if he's unable to take a step forward with his shot, and last year's 60.4 free-throw mark does raise questions.

Position: SG | Size: 6'5", 190 lbs | Age: 19 | Pro Comp: JR Smith

Paul McNeil didn't log 20 minutes in a game last year until late February, when he scored 24 points in a win over Wake Forest.

With coach Will Wade coming in, along with a handful of productive, veteran transfers, McNeil will have a breakout opportunity for a team that should earn plenty of attention.

A 6'5" guard/wing, he moves with noticeable quickness and decisiveness when creating for himself. He's a convincing shotmaker who gets clean rhythm into his jumpers.

The sophomore will be 19 years old for his entire sophomore season, and a bump in usage/minutes should help McNeil come alive as a scorer and legitimate draft prospect.

Position: PG | Size: 6'2", 185 lbs | Age: 21 | Pro Comp: Ish Smith

The only player last year to average at least 20 points with a 35.0 assist percentage, Donovan Dent consistently generated offense with his speed, creativity, special floater game, constant rim pressure and playmaking.

There will be a brighter spotlight on his scoring and passing skills at UCLA. All scouting eyes will be on his jump shot.

For a 6'2" point guard, only 2.9 three-point attempts per 100 possessions raises questions about translatability and upside.

Lacking size and athleticism, Donovan Dent could still give teams the type of speed and playmaking that helped Ish Smith carve out a long NBA career.

Position: SF | Size: 6'8", 210 lbs Age: 21 | Nationality: France | Pro Comp: Jaylon Tyson

Shon Abaev resembles Jaylon Tyson with their herky-jerky movement, creation and three-level scoring ability.

Abaev will make a name for himself this year with his self-creation, isolation scoring and confident approach. He doesn't always have the burst to blow by, but at his size, he's able to rise up over the top on drives, pull-ups and threes.

He should become an instant top option for a Cincinnati team that can make some noise this year.

Position: PG/SG | Size: 6'4", 200 lbs | Age: 19 | Pro Comp: Ryan Rollins

An unheralded recruit last year for Kennesaw State, Wooley wound up the fifth leading scoring freshman. There should be far more attention on his creativity and shotmaking at Louisville this year.

He'll have to adapt to playing with potential lottery pick Mikel Brown Jr. and veteran scorer Ryan Conwell. But scouting Wooley in a vacuum, he has outstanding feel off the dribble, changing speeds and using the right footwork to get to spots. And he shot 42.2 percent from three, looking sharp both pulling up and spotting up.

With less of a need to hunt for shots at Louisville, eyes will be on Wooley's playmaking and whether he can cut down from last year's 18.3 turnover percentage.

Position: PG/SG | Size: 6'4", 195 lbs | Age: 22 | Pro Comp: Andrew Nembhard

Discussed as a second-round pick last June, Milos Uzan chose to return for another potential Final Four run and jump up draft boards.

He was one of the nation's premier pick-and-roll ball-handlers with an excellent assist-to-turnover ratio and tough combination of pull-up shooting and floater touch. He also shot 45.6 percent off the catch, showing he can play some 2-guard with 6'4" size.

He's not explosive around the basket, and he'll be 23 years old by the draft, details that will probably keep Uzan from climbing too high.

Position: SG | Size: 6'4", 215 lbs | Age: 21 | Pro Comparison: Ochai Agbaji

Scoring guards around 6'4" don't have much margin for error in the NBA if they're not also playmakers. But Ryan Conwell possesses such impressive off-ball shotmaking that he could have a chance.

He shot 46.4 percent on spot-ups, 44.2 percent off screens, 46.3 percent on handoff threes and 41.5 percent on transition threes.

Conwell can be a threat to get downhill or into his pull-up out of isolation or pick-and-roll sets, but his ticket to the pros will be that plug-and-play scoring/shooting.

Position: C | Size: 7'1", 230 lbs | Age: 21 | Nationality: France | Pro Comp: Jake LaRavia

Amael L'Etang didn't play enough at Dayton to register NBA or national attention. More minutes should lead to more production and eyes on a 7'1" sophomore with persuasive shooting range, defensive mobility and clear passing IQ.

A 7'1" center with 65 three-point attempts, 24 dunks, a 7.2 block percentage, a 14.9 assist percentage as a freshman should be on watch lists entering his sophomore season.

While L'Etang could struggle with explosion and contact, the tape does show a skilled, smart big that moves well enough to take seriously as a pro prospect.

Position: SF/PF | Size: 6'8", 230lbs | Age: 22 | Pro Comp: Sam Hauser

There's always been interest in Alex Karaban. There just hasn't been overwhelming love after he's shown minimal improvement from year to year.

Still, there will be teams drafting in the second round that see a value pick who can provide plug-and-play shotmaking, finishing efficiency, some defensive toughness and the professionalism to make it without standout athletic talent.

His track record and comfort level for scoring off the ball should help teams see a fit with the 6'8" forward.

There won't be any mystery around Karaban's NBA role—he'll play the same one Sam Hauser does, providing shooting and intangibles.

Position: C | Size: 7'2", 250 lbs | Age: 19 | Nationality: USA/Congo | Pro Comp: Chris Boucher

Moustapha Thiam was worth tracking last year for his shot-blocking rate (9.1 percent) and shooting flashes for a 7'2" freshman.

He'll need to look tougher around the basket at Cincinnati and show some more growth and consistency with his range to really sell NBA scouts.

But a rim protector with his NBA tools and shotmaking skills is poised to enter the draft discussion at some point.

Position: PG | Size: 6'0", 170 lbs | Age: 22 | Pro Comp: Dennis Schröder

Size and age will continue to cap Braden Smith's perceived NBA ceiling and draft stock.

In the second round, though, he's bound to have fans who see a playmaking specialist with enough shotmaking skill and toughness to overcome his physical limitations in a backup role.

A pesky guard who's turned into an exceptional playmaker and shotmaker, Smith could provide the same type of jolt that makes Dennis Schröder in demand each year.

Position: C | Size: 6'9", 250 lbs | Age: 19 | Pro Comp: Tarik Black

Morez Johnson Jr. will bring his destructive power and athleticism from Illinois to Michigan. Of his 77 made field goals last year, 72 came off cuts, offensive boards, transition and rolls to the basket. His entire offense is built around finishing through and over defenders around the basket.

It's unrealistic to expect any notable new skills, but NBA teams looking for more interior activity, second-chance points and easy baskets could see Johnson giving them a jolt.

Though he lacks a modernized skill set, he could stick the way Tarik Black did, finishing plays, grabbing boards and providing physicality.

Position: SF/PF | Size: 6'8", 226 lbs | Age: 19 | Pro Comp: Isaac Okoro

Derrion Reid will have to shoot better than he did at Alabama, but for Oklahoma, he should have a more favorable role with more chances to make plays and build confidence.

At 6'8", 220 pounds, his physical tools scream NBA, and last year's role may have masked some mid-range scoring and shotmaking we saw more of during high school.

With more consistent touches and shots, I'm expecting a bounce-back season that highlights more skill and two-way impact from his strength, length and athleticism.

Reid doesn't have a core offensive skill, but his physical profile and two-way versatility could remind of Isaac Okoro.

Position: SG | Size: 6'5", 200 lbs | Age: 24 | Pro Comp: Ben Sheppard

Richie Saunders averaged 16.5 points on 65.1 percent true shooting, and now he'll have AJ Dybantsa and Robert Wright III to draw more attention.

He'll be one of the oldest players in his class (turns 24 in September), and his lack of playmaking will turn some off.

Between the 43.2 percent three-point mark, his shot prep for generating rhythm, his scoring off movement and touch indicators (83.5 percent FT, 53.2 percent floaters), Saunders should be one of the most convincing shotmakers in the 2026 draft.

He also graded as an excellent driver and finisher, adding another layer to his offensive attack.

Position: PG | Size: 6'3", 185 lbs | Age: 19 | Pro Comp: Shabazz Napier

Viewed as a second-round pick just a month ago, Boogie Fland will have a better chance to sell himself next season with Florida.

He's in a good spot to focus on playmaking for teammates, though scouts will still want to see more efficiency finishing around the basket.

Otherwise, Fland should still look like an appealing change-of-pace guard prospect with translatable creativity and shotmaking.

Size and athletic question marks, plus shotmaking confidence and playmaking ability make Fland look similar to a great college guard and borderline pro like Shabazz Napier.

Position: SG | Size: 6'5", 195lbs | Age: 20 | Pro Comparisons: Malaki Branham

The expected top option for an exciting St. John's roster, Ian Jackson should enter next year's draft process with more consistent production to back his NBA scorer projection.

Guards who aren't playmakers haven't been in high demand unless they're deemed elite prospects in their teens. Jackson will be 21 by next June and has never been known for passing.

However, he has become an effective self-creator with his drives and pull-up game, and his shotmaking confidence could sway teams to see a potential scoring specialist at the next level.

Position: C | Size: 7'1", 255lbs | Age: 22 | Nationality: Croatia | Pro Comp: Killian Tillie

With a 7'1", 230-pound frame, shooting range and soft hands, Tomislav Ivisic returns as one of the nation's most effective pick-and-roll/pop players.

Aside from hitting 55 threes, which has become his big selling point, he showed high passing IQ and toughness around the rim for finishing and rebounding.

His defensive outlook isn't exciting, but there figure to be NBA teams that see an opportunity to find another version of Quinten Post.

Position: SG | Size: 6'4", 219 lbs | Age: 20 | Pro Comp: Collin Sexton

Wesley Yates III was a highly efficient scorer for USC, mostly thanks to reliable shotmaking from on and off the ball.

He created into his pull-up effectively and connected often (38.8 percent), but he was even better off the catch, making 50.0 percent of those attempts.

Yates would have more buzz if he was able to showcase some playmaking, but he is simply a scorer. And at 6'4", 219 pounds, he may have the right tools and skill set to continue scoring at higher levels.

Position: SG | Size: 6'5", 210 lbs | Age: 23 | Pro Comp: Kevin Porter Jr.

Jaron Pierre Jr. exploded for 21.6 points per game last year, mostly behind some potent shotmaking.

Though last year's highlight reels consistent of a number of high-flying dunks, his 110 pull-up makes and 41.3 percent catch-and-shoot game represent Pierre's potential ticket to the pros.

He'll turn 24 just after next year's draft, but Pierre should produce his way to the NBA combine after receiving an invite to 2025's Elite Camp.

His game resembles Kevin Porter Jr. with his positional size, iso and pull-up game and ability to create for others.

Position: SF | Size: 6'4", 220 lbs | Age: 22 | Pro Comp: Cody Martin

Otega Oweh followed a strong first season at Kentucky with some impressive flashes at the NBA combine.

He still wasn't a big enough shooting threat for a 6'4" wing/forward to rise up boards during the pre-draft process. He started to show he had some handles to create advantages and capitalize using his strength on drives.

Oweh's physical tools and defense are selling points as well, though scouts will want to see more than 0.8 threes per game to really buy his fit at the next level.

Position: SF | Size: 6'6", 205 lbs | Age: 21 | Pro Comp: Baylor Scheierman

Josh Dix had one of the NCAA's best shooting profiles in terms of accuracy and shot diversity last season. A dangerous spot-up, pull-up and movement shotmaker, he also totaled 89 assists to just 27 turnovers.

Teams could see an adaptable, 6'6" role player who'll provide perimeter firepower and good decision-making.

Shooting will be his calling card, but like Baylor Scheierman, he could handle and make plays out of pick-and-roll sets.

Position: SF | Size: 6'8", 225 lbs | Age: 20 | Pro Comp: Ryan Dunn

The scouting report on Dailyn Swain is similar to Ryan Dunn's out of Virginia, with both players possessing positional size, athleticism, defense and offensive limitations.

For two years at Xavier, Swain has been worth tracking due to his athleticism, defense and passing flashes for a 6'8", 220-pound wing.

The lack of ball-handling and shooting have held him back from drawing serious interest. Swain showed some signs of growth with his face-up scoring last year.

Considerable improvement to his shot at Texas could generate real buzz. A moderate jump should at least push him into the second-round discussion, considering scouts already see an NBA-level slasher/finisher and defender.

Position: SF/PF | Size: 6'7", 197 lbs | Age: 22 | Pro Comp: Richaun Holmes

Amarion Dickerson should have made some preseason watch lists after winning Horizon League Defensive Player of the Year and scoring 25 points against Alabama in the NCAA tournament.

He became one of two NCAA players under 6'8" to ever put up an 8.0 block percentage and rack up 50 dunks in a season.

Dickerson may not even start this year at USC, and he'll want to raise his 27.6 three-point percentage. But there should still be interest in a big, long wing with his defensive court coverage and knack for driving and rim-running for easy baskets.

Position: SG | Size: 6'4", 195 lbs | Age: 21 | Pro Comp: Alec Burks

College basketball's third-leading scorer at Memphis will now try to sell scouts with Kansas State.

He's somewhat divisive as a prospect due to his 6'3" size for a high-usage scoring guard with low three-point volume. He has been extremely effective getting downhill, using touch in the lane, making shots in the mid-range and drawing fouls.

And he has shown marginal improvement with his shooting off the dribble, although mostly inside the arc.

Haggerty reminds of Alec Burks, an NBA scoring specialist oozing with confidence, aggression and tough shotmaking from all over.

Position: PG/SG | Size: 6'4", 180 lbs | Age: 21 | Nationality: Canada | Pro Comp: Scottie Pippen Jr

Now at Florida, Xaivian Lee now has a chance to validate his production and flashy highlights of creativity from Princeton. Boogie Fland should help take some pressure off him as well.

The senior guard has enough ball-handling shiftiness, shotmaking skill and playmaking IQ for scouts to consider for an offensive spark role at the next level.

NBA team could picture a Scottie Pippen Jr.-type bench spark in Lee, who's developed into a well-rounded scorer and playmaker thanks to his handle and improved shooting.

Position: C | Size: 7'0", 225 lbs | Age: 21 | Nationality: Estonia | Pro Comp: Isaiah Hartenstein

At 7'0", Veesaar is a force around the basket with his strength and leaping for finishing and offensive rebounding. He's going to generate NBA interest if he's able to build on last year's 16 three-point makes at North Carolina.

He will be valued mostly for his finishing at the next level, but he also flashes some of Isaiah Hartenstein's short touch, defensive activity and passing.