Detailed Analysis of the 2026 NBA Draft: Early Projections
A few weeks before the start of the college basketball season, the excitement surrounding the 2026 draft continues to grow. A freshman class packed with stars is grabbing attention, showing rapid development to compete at the highest level. It’s the ideal time to present our first mock draft of the season.
NBA executives have had the opportunity to evaluate prospects on a November schedule that has included significant matchups, such as the Champions Classic and the Players Era championship in Las Vegas. This draft is shaping up to be one of the most promising in recent memory, with high-level players and considerable depth in the first round. It is important to note that the projections will change until June. This mock draft seeks to predict what the draft would look like if it were held today. These projections are not a ranking of the best prospects, for that you can consult the Top 100 of Alofoke Deportes. These projections are based on conversations with NBA executives and scouts, and on the personal evaluation of the players. The draft order has been established using Alofoke Deportes’ BPI rankings as of November 14th.First Round of the Draft
- 1. Brooklyn Nets
Darryn Peterson, PG/SG, Kansas
Peterson, a first-year point guard, averages 21.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.0 assists in two games. His recent absence due to a hamstring injury casts doubt on his participation in an important game against Duke. Despite this, Peterson has demonstrated dynamic scoring, impressive physical tools, defensive tenacity, and competitive qualities that place him among the most complete first-year guards. His potential could be key for the Nets, who need a star.- 2. Washington Wizards
AJ Dybantsa, SF, BYU
Dybantsa, a first-year forward, records 20.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.0 assists in four games. His scoring ability is evident, although he needs to improve his consistency. The combination of his physique and scoring potential makes him an attractive option for the Wizards, who are looking for a young star.
- 3. Utah Jazz
Cameron Boozer, PF/C, Duke
Boozer, first-year power forward/center, averages 22.5 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists in four games. Despite some concerns about his athleticism, Boozer is a complete and productive player. His ability to contribute in different facets of the game keeps him in the conversation for the top draft positions.- 4. Indiana Pacers
Nate Ament, SF/PF, Tennessee
Ament, a first-year forward/power forward, records 20 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in four games. Despite facing lower-level opponents, Ament has potential. Scouts hope to evaluate him against stronger competition, but his physique and skills suggest a bright future.
- 5. Atlanta Hawks (via New Orleans)
Caleb Wilson, PF/C, North Carolina
Wilson, a first-year power forward/center, averages 20 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 3 assists in four games. His improved play and impact in the paint have impressed NBA teams. The challenge will be to improve his shooting, but he could rise in the draft if he maintains this level.- 6. Sacramento Kings
Mikel Brown Jr., PG, Louisville
Brown Jr., a first-year point guard, records 19.3 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 6.8 assists in four games. His ability to shoot from three-point range and create plays makes him a promising prospect. The Kings’ need for a point guard could influence his draft position.
Mikel Brown Jr. scores a three-pointer.
- 7. Charlotte Hornets
Chris Cenac Jr., PF/C, Houston
Cenac Jr., freshman power forward/center, averages 10.8 points, 9 rebounds, and 0.5 assists in four games. His strength and rebounding ability make him valuable to the Hornets. His potential for development in the interior game makes him an interesting project.- 8. Dallas Mavericks
- 9. Memphis Grizzlies
Jayden Quaintance, C, Kentucky
Quaintance, a second-year pivot, is still recovering from a knee injury. His potential as a vertical player and alley-oop threat is promising. NBA teams are hoping to see his return to assess his potential.- 10. Oklahoma City Thunder (via LAC)
Dame Sarr, SG/SF, Duke
Sarr, a first-year guard/forward, averages 9.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 0.5 assists in four games. His physique, defensive potential, and developing offensive game make him a valuable player. His ability to make three-pointers is improving.
- 11. Memphis Grizzlies (via Phoenix)
- 12. Portland Trail Blazers
Neoklis Avdalas, SG/SF, Virginia Tech
Avdalas, a first-year guard/forward, averages 16.3 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 6 assists in four games. His playmaking ability and height make him attractive to NBA teams. Improving his shot and off-ball play will be key to his rise in the draft.- 13. Chicago Bulls
Braylon Mullins, SG, UConn
Mullins, a first-year guard, currently injured, but his return is expected in the coming weeks. His excellent three-point shot and competitiveness make him an attractive player. He is expected to have a significant impact on UConn.- 14. Milwaukee Bucks
Darius Acuff Jr., PG, Arkansas
Acuff Jr., a first-year point guard, has had a good start at Arkansas, showing efficiency and good long-range shooting. His speed and playmaking ability are evident. Teams in need of point guards will observe him closely.- 15. Boston Celtics
Thomas Haugh, SF/PF, Florida
Haugh, junior forward/power forward, has proven to be one of the best college players. His ball movement, defensive effort, and versatility make him an attractive option. Teams with playoff aspirations will seriously consider him.
- 16. Toronto Raptors
Labaron Philon Jr., PG, Alabama
Philon Jr., a second-year point guard, has started the season with good performance, showing improved scoring ability. His role as the primary playmaker gives him a good opportunity to excel. His performance in the demanding conference will help his projection.- 17. Charlotte Hornets (via Orlando)
Tounde Yessoufou, SG/SF, Baylor
Yessoufou, a first-year guard/forward, possesses an imposing physique and high performance. His ability to penetrate and get to the free-throw line is notable. Improvement in his shot and his efficiency will be key factors for his draft position.- 18. Golden State Warriors
- 19. Miami Heat
Kingston Flemings, PG, Houston
Flemings, a first-year base, has stood out among his peers, showing speed, vision, and explosiveness. His efficiency and ability to pressure defenses make him a promising player.- 20. Minnesota Timberwolves
Bennett Stirtz, PG, Iowa
Stirtz, last year’s base, is an experienced player who excels in ball handling and makes good decisions. His performance against stronger competition will be key to his evaluation.
