BYU freshman AJ Dybantsa has moved past Kansas freshman Darryn Peterson for the top spot in B/R’s Mock Draft.
Editor’s Note: Find more of Jonathan Wasserman’s coverage of the 2026 Draft on Bleacher Report or to read this article on BleacherReport.com, click here. The views on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of the NBA or its teams.
For the first time this season, Darryn Peterson has fallen from our projected No. 1 spot in the 2026 NBA Draft.
There still isn’t a consensus answer for who’s the top prospect is, but the support for AJ Dybantsa continues to grow. The mock could also change again after the lottery once we know what team will be making the selection.
We’ve also added two new freshmen to the board based on NBA feedback and intel we’re hearing on their intent to declare for the draft.
Among our projected picks, there are still nearly a dozen non-seniors who could choose to come back for NIL offers and a weaker 2027 draft. Until decisions are made to return, first-round caliber prospects will remain on the board.
1. Sacramento Kings: AJ Dybantsa (BYU)
Position: SF | Size: 6’9″, ~210 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Jaylen Brown
There are still believers and support for Darryn Peterson at No. 1. But right now with AJ Dybantsa, there is equal excitement over his trajectory and in-season development—and less perceived risk or questions.
Dropping Peterson from the top spot isn’t even about the cramping or tapping out of games. Watching the tape, Dybantsa has just been able to create easier shots for himself and teammates. He’s finished under 50.0 percent from the floor just four times since Thanksgiving. He leads the nation in scoring with an assist percentage double Peterson’s. And he’s made multiple threes in 10 conference games, a good sign after he looked more reluctant to shoot from deep earlier in the season.
Situations matter, and Kansas doesn’t surround Peterson with shooters for spacing. But the eventual lottery winner won’t want to take any chances, and whether it’s role or injury related, he hasn’t demonstrated playmaking ability, he’s shooting 31.7 percent in ball-screen situations and he’s averaging 1.7 baskets at the rim per game, compared to Dybantsa’s 4.6.
Dybantsa right now looks like the safer choice, which could be important enough to sway a general manager when it’s such a heated debate at No. 1.
2. Indiana Pacers: Darryn Peterson (Kansas)
Position: SG | Size: 6’6″, 205 lbs | Age: 18
Pro Comp: Anthony Edwards
Though no longer viewed as the clear favorite at No. 1, Darryn Peterson is still right in the mix, averaging 19.7 points on 60.1 true shooting. His shotmaking skill has looked as advertised, with Peterson hitting 59.3 percent of his short-range jumpers, 44.4 percent of his long twos and 40.3 percent of his 6.9 three-point attempts per game.
The case for Peterson over Dybantsa revolves around his superior range, quicker defense and more off-ball skills, plus the chance that he’ll look more explosive with better spacing and healthier legs a year from now.
Whether he goes No. 1, No. 2 or even No. 3 will come down to the eye of the pick’s beholder, as there doesn’t seem to be any consensus right now when ranking Peterson versus Dybantsa and Boozer.
3. Brooklyn Nets: Cameron Boozer (Duke)
Position: PF | Size: 6’9″, 250 lbs | Age: 18
Pro Comp: Kevin Love
Cameron Boozer’s impact has remained automatic, regardless of whether he’s taking over games with his signature inside-out scoring.
The pitch to Boozer is that he can still change a game when he’s consistently doubled or not taking the most shots on his team.
His performance against Michigan felt quiet due to the 10 field-goal attempts, yet he still finished with 18 points, 10 boards and seven assists in a win against the No. 2 defense.
Boozer seemingly made the right read in every situation with his handle, vision and willingness to pass. At 250 pounds, he’s initiating offense off the dribble, shooting near 40.0 percent from three and using his powerful frame for interior finishing.
He’s also on pace to challenge Zion Williamson for the highest box plus-minus on record, regardless of class. And Boozer still won’t turn 19 years old until after the draft.
4. Washington Wizards: Caleb Wilson (North Carolina)
Position: PF | Size: 6’10”, 215 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Jermaine O’Neal
Regardless of how a current hand injury plays out, Caleb Wilson may have distanced himself further from whoever is No. 5 on draft boards after his 23-point game against Cameron Boozer and Duke.
The nation’s dunk leader hit tough shot after tough shot over Boozer and Maliq Brown, showcasing both isolation footwork and shotmaking versatility with various fallaways, a pull-up and three-pointer.
Scouts know they’ll be able to bank on his athleticism and quickness for easy baskets and defensive playmaking, but Wilson is also now shooting 61.2 percent on post-ups, he’s making regular plays handling the ball in transition, and he’s registering a strong 18.0 assist percentage.
The consistent flashes of expanding skill hint at a future player who can double as both a play-finisher/energizer and option NBA coaches can feature and run offense through.
5. Utah Jazz: Keaton Wagler (Illinois)
Position: PG/SG | Size: 6’6″, 180 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Jamal Murray
Considering how little scouts knew about Keaton Wagler before the season, they’d been waiting for a larger sample size at Illinois to decide how seriously to take him. It’s looking big enough over 20 games in, particularly after his 46-point eruption against Purdue, 28-point, five-assist game against Nebraska and latest 34-point line at Wisconsin.
Kylan Boswell’s hand injury and departure from the lineup unlocked more of Wagler’s creativity and shotmaking confidence. In a higher-usage role, he’s done a convincing job selling himself as a 6’6″ lead guard who’s getting to spots off the change of speed, converting inside the arc with body control and touch and separating into clean jumpers without needing exciting burst or explosion.
6. Atlanta Hawks (via Pelicans): Kingston Flemings (Houston)
Position: PG | Size: 6’4″, 190 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: De’Aaron Fox
Teams won’t be jumping off Kingston Flemings’ bandwagon after a recent rough stretch. His first step, dangerous mid-range game, decision-making, defensive tools and poise in crunch time remain valuable and scalable.
Flemings comes off as a guard NBA teams can draft to run offense through or work as a combo with another ball-handler, as we’ve seen him playing efficiently out of spot-ups alongside Milos Uzan.
But he has struggled around the basket during conference play (48.8 percent). And it’s worth looking into the combination of low three-point and free-throw rates, with Flemings very locked in on getting to his spots inside 17 feet and separating into pull-ups and step-backs.
7. Dallas Mavericks: Mikel Brown Jr. (Louisville)
Position: PG/SG | Size: 6’5″, 180 lbs | Age: 18
Pro Comp: Anfernee Simons
The ability to explode for 45 points clearly highlights a special level of scoring skill related to Mikel Brown Jr.’s pacing and shotmaking skill, even if his shooting percentages and frequent dud games have been disappointing.
Brown hit 10 threes against North Carolina State, including a number of them from well beyond NBA range. He followed with consecutive 29-point games, drilling four threes in each.
There’s something very persuasive and aesthetically pleasing about the rhythm, fluidity and confidence he operates pulling up or shooting off the catch without a hint of hesitation.
Brown may be streaky, but he’s also registering a 30.4 assist percentage, a promising number that reflects lead-guard playmaking ability to complement the microwave scoring.
8. Memphis Grizzlies: Brayden Burries (Arizona)
Position: SG | Size: 6’4″, 205 lbs | Age: 20
Pro Comp: Quentin Grimes
After a slow start for Brayden Burries, belief and interest around his potential has gradually snowballed with the consistent scoring outputs.
He’s the type of guard who doesn’t need flashy self-creation off the dribble to get to the rim or hit jumpers. He has been super efficient in ball-screen situations getting downhill and pulling up in the mid-range. He’s had lots of success attacking closeouts and space in transition, using his frame well to shield defenders and create easy finishing angles.
Certain evaluators just may have a difficult time picturing upside in a 6’4″, limited playmaker.
9. Chicago Bulls: Jayden Quaintance (Kentucky)
Position: PF | Size: 6’10”, 255 lbs | Age: 18
Pro Comp: Bam Adebayo
Jayden Quaintance lasted four games for Kentucky after trying to return 10 months after last year’s torn ACL. Scouts aren’t banking on seeing him again this year, which creates a tricky evaluation and draft decision for a sophomore who’s still younger than most freshmen.
The long-term ceiling that looked so appealing at Arizona State hasn’t changed. But with questions around his availability, health and current stage of development, it’s becoming more likely that he could lose support from certain teams desperate for a sure thing.
At full strength, Quaintance looks like an outstanding defensive prospect due to his frame, length and shot-blocking rate. He was always behind offensively, but he’s delivered enough flashes of low-post touch, driving ability and shotmaking for scouts to picture some long-term scoring potential to unlock.
10. Memphis Grizzlies: Darius Acuff Jr. (Arkansas)
Position: PG/SG | Size: 6’3″, 190 lbs | Age: 18
Pro Comp: Stephon Marbury
Consistency, efficient decision-making and late-game execution have helped Darius Acuff Jr. plow through scouts’ early worries about height and athleticism. But the ability to explode for 49 points in a double-overtime win against a ranked opponent pointed to outlier star qualities and upside.
Analytics people may question numbers such as his defensive playmaking and rebounding rates. But after the top three of this draft, he’s putting himself in the conversation with eye-testers who’ll watch and detect special change of speed for advantage creation, lethal pull-up and spot-up shooting, an ultra sharp float game and the type of quarterback feel—balancing scoring with passing—that NBA coaches crave in lead guards.
11. Portland Trail Blazers: Labaron Philon Jr. (Alabama)
Position: PG | Size: 6’4″, 185 lbs | Age: 20
Pro Comp: Mike Conley
Consistency and improved shooting have helped sway scouts to buy Labaron Philon’s breakout and NBA outlook. He’s making over two threes a game, finishing at the rim with improved craft and converting his touch shots using signature footwork and control.
He is benefiting from high usage and a green light. And his pull-up shooting hasn’t been nearly as accurate as his catch-and-shoot game. There will likely be teams that prefer the younger point guards who are also more natural playmakers.
12. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Clippers): Thomas Haugh (Florida)
Position: SF/PF | Size: 6’9″, 215 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Jeff Green
Thomas Haugh’s draft case revolves more around fit than upside. It seems more likely his suitors will be playoff contenders who see the right puzzle piece, rather than rebuilding teams willing to wait on long-term potential.
He continues to hit threes, deliver above-the-rim finishes and give scouts the occasional flash of creation into drives or dribble jumpers. Haugh has earned the plug-and-play label with 6’9″ size, shooting, athleticism and IQ/hustle.
13. Charlotte Hornets: Karim Lopez (New Zealand Breakers)
Position: PF | Size: 6’8″, 225 lbs | Age: 18 | Country: Mexico
Pro Comp: Franz Wagner
Karim Lopez put together consecutive performances late in January that could influence or change scouts’ evaluations. His 32-point game against Melbourne may have been a needle-mover, given the long-term visions he may have created with how he was able to make plays and shots off his own dribble at 6’8″, 225 pounds and 18 years old.
At this stage, his face-up flashes and strength/physicality set him apart from most forwards his age. NBA teams that believe in his shooting development and ability to start converting more self-created attempts will consider Lopez in the lottery.
14. San Antonio Spurs (via Hawks): Nate Ament (Tennessee)
Position: SF | Size: 6’10”, 207 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Zaccharie Risacher
Though not always efficient, Nate Ament has looked like a more confident and decisive scorer lately getting to spots, elevating in traffic and stepping into threes. There will always be demand and patience when it comes to 6’10” wings with shoot-dribble-pass skill sets, and Ament has at least 12 made field goals in ball-screen, isolation, spot-up and movement off-screen situations. He’s getting to the line at a strong rate, yet he isn’t a black hole, averaging 2.5 assists.
The case against Ament questions if the shooting will be good enough to offset projected issues around a lack of explosion and strength for turning the corner and finishing. Even while he’s been far more productive lately, he’s still at just 51.3 percent on layups during conference play.
The case for him shows a diverse shotmaker who can get his shot off cleanly at will due to positional height and release point.
15. Golden State Warriors: Braylon Mullins (UConn)
Position: SG | Size: 6’5″, 190 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Aaron Nesmith
Braylon Mullins’ usage and shots vary game-to-game as an off-ball scorer, so NBA teams won’t put much stock into the production or statistics. He’s a top-20 pick based on eye test, archetype, fit and the translatability tied to his positional size, spot-up and movement shooting, shotmaking diversity and defensive competitiveness.
Mullins won’t have 25-point games often like the one he had against Creighton. But more will come, as he’s the type capable of catching fire once the game-script calls for more firepower and his confidence starts pumping.
16. Miami Heat: Koa Peat (Arizona)
Position: PF | Size: 6’8″, 235 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Wendell Carter Jr.
Koa Peat returned from an injury against Kansas to give Arizona some play-finishing, passing and tough rebounding.
He’s going to receive interest from lottery teams that see a sure-fire pro based on his frame for translatable interior scoring, mid-range skill level, flashes of driving ability and overall maturity.
On the flip side, questions have arisen about the upside of a 6’8″ forward with six made threes, a 60.6 free-throw percentage and 2.6 block percentage.
17. Memphis Grizzlies: Christian Anderson (Texas Tech)
Position: PG | Size: 6’3″, 178 lbs | Age: 19 | Country: USA/Germany
Pro Comp: Darius Garland
Scouts worry about Christian Anderson’s frame, but it’s getting tougher to automatically cap his ceiling. He’s emerged as one of the top shooting prospects in the draft, now at 43.9 percent on 7.9 three-point attempts. But he’s also one of the nation’s most efficient ball-screen operators. He just went for 31 points against Cincinnati, showcasing how timely he’s able to get to spots by changing speeds.
A 33.5 assist percentage reflects promising passing IQ, and though he isn’t the flashiest playmaker, Anderson makes most of the right/basic kick-and-out and ball screen reads within a set.
18. Oklahoma City Thunder (via 76ers): Yaxel Lendeborg (Michigan)
Position: PF | Size: 6’9″, 240 lbs | Age: 23
Pro Comp: Al Harrington
Yaxel Lendeborg performed well during a key test against Duke by drilling three three-pointers and fearlessly attacking Cameron Boozer.
He’ll earn the high-floor, low-ceiling label. Teams will see a surefire pro that can finish plays, handle and pass, make enough open threes and provide valuable defensive versatility. They’ll also question the upside of a forward who’ll be a 24-year-old rookie, still can’t shoot consistently and lacks one defining skill.
19. Charlotte Hornets (via Suns): Hannes Steinbach (Washington)
Position: C | Size: 6’11” | Age: 19 | Country: Germany
Pro Comp: Moe Wagner
Consistently productive all season, Hannes Steinbach showed he can take over during his 26-point game against Minnesota.
He has outstanding hands and instincts in the paint at 6’11”, though a lack of explosion off two feet does limit him. Steinbach looks far more athletic in the open floor using his footwork and bounce off one foot.
NBA teams typically want plus-defenders at the center position, and Steinbach isn’t a force or shot-blocker. But scouts still consider him the potential top center prospect due to his size, skill level, IQ and shooting flashes.
20. Toronto Raptors: Bennett Stirtz (Iowa)
Position: PG | Size: 6’4″, 190 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Malcolm Brogdon
Up to three 30-point games just in February, Bennett Stirtz has been able to create separation all day off change of speed, ball-handling and footwork maneuvers.
He was also showing off his tough shotmaking when defenders remain attached. And his off-ball scoring was on display on a number of clever cuts.
Scouts still sound split on the upside of a guard who’ll be a 23-year-old rookie. He’s also been with coach Ben McCollum at three different programs, so there’s curiosity about how he’ll fare with someone new for the first time next year.
21. Los Angeles Lakers: Chris Cenac Jr. (Houston)
Position: PF | Size: 6’11”, 240 lbs | Age: 18
Pro Comp: Bobby Portis
January was a strong month for Chris Cenac, and the confident shotmaking has carried into February.
His production is going to fluctuate throughout the season based on Houston’s depth and the freshman’s role. But his tools and skill set will continue to stand out, with Cenac showing clear three-point range, rebounding instincts and athleticism for finishing at the rim.
Assuming he continues to build on his shooting over the next few years, his archetype seems very translatable to a supporting role, being a 6’11” big who can stretch the floor and provide easy buckets and interior activity.
22. Denver Nuggets: Cameron Carr (Baylor)
Position: SG | Size: 6’5″, 175 lbs | Age: 20
Pro Comp: Devin Vassell
Consistency and a high release have helped Cameron Carr’s shotmaking look very persuasive. With 37 dunks and 31 blocks at 6’5″, the combination of shooting skills and athleticism should help Carr appear very safe and easy to project.
23. Atlanta Hawks (via Cavaliers): Amari Allen (Alabama)
Position: SF/PF | Size: 6’8″, 205 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Wilson Chandler
Teams are taking Amari Allen seriously. Scouts expect he’ll test the draft process, and with 6’8″ size, a 38.5 three-point percentage, 7.3 boards and 3.3 assists per game, there are bound to be first-round suitors coveting a big wing with a shoot-dribble-pass skill set.
24. Detroit Pistons (via Timberwolves): Meleek Thomas (Arkansas)
Position: PG/SG | Size: 6’5″, 185 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Jordan Clarkson
Meleek Thomas has been a key weapon for Arkansas with his potent transition scoring, shotmaking (pull-ups and spot-ups) and dangerous float game. He’s finished much better at the rim during conference play (65.1 percent) as well. The interest in Thomas would be greater if he was able to show more playmaking, but Darius Acuff Jr. is the clear quarterback for Arkansas, and NBA teams still desire guards that can self-create and score from off the ball.
25. Philadelphia 76ers (via Rockets): Aday Mara (Michigan)
Position: C | Size: 7’3″, 255 lbs | Age: 20 | Country: Spain
Pro Comp: Roy Hibbert
Aday Mara had some eye-opening moments during Michigan’s heavily-scouted game against Duke, when he was able to showcase his passing, post touch and defensive paint presence.
Those aspects of his game have been on display all season. Bad turnovers and dreadful free-throw shooting will turn teams off, but he’s established himself as an enticing weapon for an NBA frontcourt as a 7’3″ big who can facilitate, finish and protect the rim.
26. New York Knicks: Morez Johnson Jr. (Michigan)
Position: PF | Size: 6’9″, 250 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Montrezl Harrell
Belief in Morez Johnson Jr.’s NBA role/fit has risen during Michigan’s dominant season. More are coming around to accept his limitations and buy his physicality, short touch and movement for interior scoring and defensive versatility.
He won’t be for every team, but Johnson figures to interest those who see value and a rotational player who can provide a different presence with paint activity, toughness and effort.
27. Boston Celtics: Dailyn Swain (Texas)
Position: PG | Size: 6’8″, 220 lbs | Age: 20
Pro Comp: Herb Jones
Dailyn Swain is up to 17.9 points per game, using mostly a combination of ball-handling, athleticism and paint touch.
Scouts are now talking about a potential first-round pick.
His shooting remains iffy, which for a third-year wing will turn some teams off. However, the ability to create for himself, finish, pass and make plays defensively should lead to plenty of suitors.
28. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Spurs): Ebuka Okorie (Stanford, PG)
Position: PG | Size: 6’2″, 185 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Dennis Schroder
A loaded point guard class gets even deeper if Ebuka Okorie declares.
Teams have begun to take the 6’2″ guard seriously now that we’re entering March and he’s still fifth in the country in scoring.
His range sounds wide, a reflection of the divide among scouts who either see too much production, creativity and shotmaking to write off, or an undersized, ball-dominant scorer in a draft saturated with quality ball-handlers.
If he does stay in, it will likely be because he’ll hear enough teams willing to buy the effectiveness of his ball-handling quickness for creating advantages and rim pressure, plus a confident pull-up game game, soft floater touch and flashes of below-the-rim finishing craft.
His assist numbers don’t pop the way scouts may want them to, but he’s carrying a major workload as a No. 1 option, and a 8.1 turnover percentage on 31.0 percent usage is outstanding.
29. Dallas Mavericks (via OKC): Motiejus Krivas (Arizona)
Position: C | Size: 7’2″, 260 lbs | Age: 21 | Country: Lithuania
Pro Comp: Ivica Zubac
Motiejus Krivas would draw NBA interest if he declared or have a clean path to the 2027 first round if he returned. A tough decision will await the 7’2″, 260-pound anchor who’s given up just five field goals around Arizona’s basket all year.
Krivas possesses massive size and strength for rim protection, while his 80.9 free-throw percentage indicates unique paint touch for a player with such overwhelming physical tools.
30. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Pistons): Juke Harris (Wake Forest)
Position: SF | Size: 6’7″, 200 lbs | Age: 20
Pro Comp: Aaron Wiggins
Interest in Juke Harris has gradually grown with the consistent shotmaking and frequent trips to the free-throw line. He’s averaging 21.2 points on 14.3 shots, scoring efficiently with spot-up and movement shooting and aggressive transition and dribble handoff drives that showcase his long strides, length and paint touch.
The unpredictable breakout had scouts hesitant to buy in early in the season, but Harris has performed well against top-50 teams (11.3 BPM).
He’s now generating first-round buzz as teams begin to buy the NBA wing physical profile, off-ball scoring, defensive playmaking tools and fearless energy.
31. Sacramento Kings: Tounde Yessoufou (Baylor)
Position: SG/SF | Size: 6’5″, 215 lbs | Age: 19 | Country: USA/Benin
Pro Comp: Cam Whitmore
Even with his shooting on and off throughout the season, Tounde Yessoufou has remained consistently productive tapping into his physical tools and athleticism for driving, transition finishing, offensive rebounding and defensive playmaking.
But there have been enough flashes of shotmaking—like during his 37-point eruption against BYU—for NBA teams to feel optimistic about his perimeter development.
Non-playmaking wings typically need to be threatening or reliable shooters, making Yessoufou’s three-point stroke an important swing skill.
32. Memphis Grizzlies (via Pacers): Patrick Ngongba II (Duke)
Position: C | Size: 6’11”, 250 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Jonas Valanciunas
The pitch to Patrick Ngongba II won’t revolve around production or stats. Aside from his appealing physical tools and touch around the basket, the tape shows outstanding instincts and processing.
There will be certain NBA teams drawn to his passing and ability to facilitate from inside the defense, where he anticipates cutting opportunities and moves the ball quickly to shooters.
Ngongba isn’t the most exciting scoring prospect, but between his finishing tools, assisting, rim protection and flashes of shooting range, he has the chance to check an interesting mix of boxes.
33. Brooklyn Nets: Alijah Arenas (USC)
Position: SG | Size: 6’6″, 199 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Jalen Green
Considering Alijah Arenas’ offseason injury and delayed start to the season, scouts will forgive the shooting percentages. He scored 29 points in his fifth game and then 24 points, including game-winning drive at Penn State to follow up.
Still, most of his performances so far have been inefficient due to reckless shot selection and poor shooting.
The tape shows eye-opening self-creation with sharp handles, shiftiness and footwork. He has joystick movement, getting to spots and keeping defenders off balance. But he also looks far from NBA-ready, which is to be expected, and if he does declare this June, he’d need a patient team willing to wait longer for results.
34. New York Knicks (via Wizards): Joshua Jefferson (Iowa State)
Position: PF | Size: 6’9″, 240 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Kyle Anderson
Improved shooting and a new playmaking role have turned Joshua Jefferson into a complete player and believable NBA prospect.
Aside from the improved three-point efficiency, his passing has really popped the most, particularly for a 6’9″, 240-pound forward. But he’s tough around the basket with strength and touch, and he’s quick and smart defensively.
There will be NBA teams that would rather target youth and upside, but Jefferson has turned himself into a popular name with so much versatility and adaptability.
35. San Antonio Spurs (via Jazz): Isaiah Evans (Duke)
Position: SF | Size: 6’6″, 180 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Jordan Hawkins
There have been signs of Isaiah Evans’ improved burst for slashing to the rim. Regardless, he’ll be eyed by teams for his off-ball shooting, which has looked similar to last year, only with double the minutes and shots.
36. Chicago Bulls (via Pelicans): Henri Veesaar (North Carolina)
Position: C | Size: 7’0″, 225 lbs | Age: 21 | Country: Estonia
Pro Comp: Nikola Vucevic
Henri Veesaar has become one of the draft’s top play-finishers who’s also now hit 30 three-pointers.
He doesn’t block many shots for a 7-footer, but offensively, he has become incredibly productive and efficient with a translatable and coveted inside-out scoring package.
37. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Mavericks): Alex Condon (Florida)
Position: PF/C | Size: 6’11”, 230 lbs | Age: 21 | Country: Australia
Pro Comp: Meyers Leonard
Alex Condon’s shooting hasn’t taken off this year, but he’s become a tougher inside scoring threat and a more aware passer.
At 6’11”, 230 pounds, the play-finishing, low-post offense and vision will earn him looks, but they’ll occur much earlier in the draft if we start seeing more drives past closeouts and made threes.
38. Los Angeles Clippers (via Grizzlies): Flory Bidunga (Kansas)
Position: SF | Size: 6’10”, 235 lbs | Age: 20 | Country: DR Congo
Pro Comp: Bismack Biyombo
Though already a Defensive Player of the Year candidate, Flory Bidunga had a statement game in Kansas’ win over Arizona. He gave the nation’s No. 1 team and 260-pound Motiejus Krivas 23 points, 10 boards and three blocks, using his quickness, bounce and motor to create opportunities and both make and erase shots at the hoop.
Teams will target Bidunga for his rim protection and finishing, which seem translatable based on his tools, movement, dunk rate and block percentage. He grades as one of the nation’s elite roll men while opponents are shooting just 27.1 percent against him around the basket.
But he’s also looked more threatening offensively with the ball, showing he can put it down and beat his man to the rim.
39. Houston Rockets (via Bulls): Sergio de Larrea (Valencia)
Position: SG | Size: 6’5″, 175 lbs | Age: 19 | Country: Spain
Pro Comp: Bogdan Bogdanovic
Sergio de Larrea’s role and production aren’t up much from last year, but he’s received some newer experience in EuroLeague, and he’s maintained the same, strong three-point and assist percentages that put him on the radar last year.
There will be second-round interest in a 6’5″ combo guard who can make plays with the ball and shoot.
40. Boston Celtics (via Bucks): Rueben Chinyelu (Florida, C)
Position: C | Size: 6’10”, 265 lbs | Age: 22 | Country: Nigeria
Pro Comp: Bismack Biyombo
The defensive tape of Rueben Chinyelu’s rim protection and foot speed in space may be extremely enticing to certain NBA teams.
He’s also one of the most productive rebounders in the draft class, should he make himself eligible. If he does, there figures to be interest from teams that see useful center depth in the second round.
41. San Antonio Spurs (via Blazers): Alex Karaban (Connecticut)
Position: SF/PF | Size: 6’8″, 230 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Sam Hauser
Between Alex Karaban’s on-court winning percentage, the consistent shooting, efficient finishing and intangibles, NBA playoff teams will see an easy-fit role player worth gambling on in the second round.
Consistent three-point percentage through four years should help skeptics look past the athletic limitations. Karaban has the skill set and mentality of a useful connective piece at the next level.
42. Brooklyn Nets (via Clippers): Neoklis Avdalas (Virginia Tech)
Position: SG/SF | Size: 6’9″, 215 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Hedo Turkoglu
The idea of Neoklis Avdalas will keep interest alive and instill patience. The NBA clearly covets jumbo playmakers, and Avdalas, who averages 4.8 assists at 6’9″, is also making 1.4 threes per game.
On the other hand, he doesn’t generate much rim pressure, his shooting has been inconsistent, low defensive playmaking rates indicate troubling athletic limitations and he’s been turnover prone.
43. Sacramento Kings (via Hornets): Ryan Conwell (Louisville)
Position: SG | Size: 6’4″, 215 lbs | Age: 21
Pro Comp: Ochai Agbaji
Ryan Conwell could have enough positional size and shotmaking skill for a shooting specialist role. He’s been streaky with a green light in a high-powered offense, but over 315 career threes says enough about how potent he can be.
44. Denver Nuggets (via Hawks): Tarris Reed (Connecticut)
Position: C | Size: 6’11”, 265 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Day’Ron Sharpe
Though more of an old-school big, Tarris Reed has put himself in the draft discussion with production generated from NBA tools for finishing and shot-blocking, low-post skill, offensive instincts and passing IQ.
45. Charlotte Hornets (via Warriors): Braden Smith (Purdue)
Position: PG | Size: 6’0″, 170 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Dennis Schroder
All it takes is one team to believe Braden Smith’s pick-and-roll feel and shotmaking are advanced enough for a backup role.
His shooting, playmaking and competitiveness are at levels that can sway one team in the 30s, 40s or 50s to look past his 6’0″ size.
46. San Antonio Spurs (via Heat): Dash Daniels (Melbourne)
Position: Combo guard | Size: 6’5″, 198 lbs | Age: 18 | Country: Australia
Pro Comp: Dyson Daniels
Dash Daniels’ predraft process will hold more weight than other prospects’ since the 18-year-old hasn’t played 20 minutes in a game since November.
The pitch to Daniels ultimately revolves around backcourt versatility and perimeter defense. Teams searching for that archetype will show more interest, while teams looking for more creation and offense will likely look elsewhere.
47. Orlando Magic: Kylan Boswell (Illinois)
Position: PG/SG | Size: 6’2″, 205 lbs | Age: 20
Pro Comp: Cory Joseph
Kylan Boswell still doesn’t look like a reliable shooter, but he’s been threatening enough for a guard who shoots 61.0 percent inside the arc, makes smart decisions and adds a sense of leadership. He’s been one of the nation’s top-graded pick-and-roll ball-handlers throughout the season.
48. Phoenix Suns (via 76ers): Zuby Ejiofor (St. John’s)
Position: PF/C | Size: 6’9″, 245 lbs | Age: 21
Pro Comp: Jonathan Mogbo
Zuby Ejiofor’s production has remained consistent and powered by quickness, strength and effort.
He’s going to mainly earn NBA looks for a team that values his energy, physicality and defensive activity. But Ejiofor has flashed enough shotmaking, face-up drives and post moves to potentially provide bonus offense at the next level.
NBA teams will ultimately pay close attention to his pre-draft measurements.
49. Dallas Mavericks (via Suns): Malik Reneau (Miami)
Position: PF | Size: 6’9″, 238 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Collin Murray-Boyles
Malik Reneau should be producing himself toward an NBA Combine invitation. He’s gradually evolved from old-school, back-to-the-basket forward to one that can make a three and attack off the bounce. But he’s still maintained his effectiveness in the paint using his strong frame and obvious scoring instincts.
50. Toronto Raptors: Jaden Bradley (Arizona)
Position: PG | Size: 6’3″, 200 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Darren Collison
Shooting has always kept interest from building around Jaden Bradley, but as the point guard for a projected No. 1 seed, he’s done too good of a job running offense and applying pressure at both ends.
NBA teams could see an interesting two-way playmaker who can penetrate, make good decisions and cause problems defensively.
51. Golden State Warriors (via Lakers): JT Toppin (Texas Tech)
Position: PF | Size: 6’9″, 230 lbs | Age: 20
Pro Comp: Brandon Clarke
A torn ACL ends JT Toppin’s season, creating an unfortunate draft-stock situation and difficult decision for him this June.
He hadn’t changed enough this year to strengthen his first-round case, and even if he returns to college, it’s unlikely he’ll be at full strength for an entire season.
Toppin could just enter the draft and hope to find his way to an NBA roster through the G League. He’ll have the chance to stick as a paint-scoring specialist.
52. Chicago Bulls (via Nuggets): Milos Uzan (Houston)
Position: PG/SG | Size: 6’4″, 195 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Andrew Nembhard
Milos Uzan hasn’t shot well from three this year, but there is enough evidence of shotmaking to look past this season’s percentages. His float game, passing IQ and backcourt versatility should have scouts willing to gamble on the possibility that Uzan’s jumper will be better than the numbers suggest.
53. Los Angeles Clippers (via Cavaliers): Milan Momcilovic (Iowa State)
Position: SF | Size: 6’8″, 225 lbs | Age: 21
Pro Comp: Svi Mykhailiuk
Milan Momcilovic has reached a level of shooting accuracy that puts him in a tier that helps teams think NBA specialist potential. If he keeps his current pace, there could be an argument for this being the best three-point shooting season on record, with Momcilovic currently making 50.8 percent of his 7.3 attempts per game.
Though not a projected creator at the next level, he’s still shown useful shotmaking diversity for scoring off post-ups and pull-ups.
54. Washington Wizards (via Timberwolves): Darrion Williams (NC State)
Position: SF | Size: 6’6″, 225 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Kenrich Williams
Though Darrion Williams’ scoring production may waver throughout the season, his versatility remains a draw from an NBA standpoint.
With that 6’6″, 225-pound physical profile, his shooting and secondary playmaking could sway scouts to picture a positionless connector.
55. Houston Rockets: Luigi Suigo (Mega)
Position: C | Size: 7’2″, 250 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Ryan Kalkbrenner
NBA teams are always monitoring Mega, and this year they’ll be considering Luigi Suigo with one of their second-round picks.
A season-high 23 points against KK Crvena Zvezda highlighted his 7’2″ size and mobility for finishing lobs and putting back misses. But he also hit three three-pointers, and if NBA teams think there may be something there with Suigo’s shooting potential, he figures to draw serious consideration in the 40s and 50s.
56. New Orleans Pelicans (via Knicks): Keyshawn Hall (Auburn)
Position: SF/PF | Size: 6’7″, 240 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Cleanthony Early
On his fourth school in four years, Keyshawn Hall has been an incredibly efficient spot-up scorer with his catch-and-shoot game and slashing. Age and poor defense hold him back, but late in the second round, a team could see a gamble worth taking on a 6’7″, 240-pound wing averaging over 20 points in the SEC.
57. Atlanta Hawks (via Celtics): Joseph Tugler (Houston)
Position: PF | Size: 6’8″, 230 lbs | Age: 20
Pro Comp: Andre Roberson
Joseph Tugler’s defensive playmaking rates have reached unique territory. A 8.6 block and 3.8 steal percentage reflect unteachable instincts, and he has the type of body that could allow him to continue making defensive plays at the next level.
He’ll draw consideration from NBA teams that see value and are willing to accept a specialist who’ll offer very little offensively.
58. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Spurs): Richie Saunders (BYU)
Position: SG | Size: 6’5″, 200 lbs | Age: 24
Pro Comp: Ben Sheppard
A torn ACL ends Richie Saunders’ career at BYU. From a draft-stock perspective, there wasn’t much left for him to sell teams on. The injury shouldn’t factor into the equation, with the assumption he wasn’t expected to play many NBA minutes next year, anyway. He’ll be an option for a team that sees a shooting specialist and value in the second round
59. Washington Wizards (via OKC): Jaron Pierre Jr. (SMU, SG)
Position: SG | Size: 6’5″, 210 lbs | Age: 23
Pro Comp: Kevin Porter Jr.
Jaron Pierre Jr. turns 24 just after the draft, but his production, three-level scoring flashes and above-the-rim finishes should earn him an NBA combine invite.
60. New Orleans Pelicans (via Pistons): Baba Miller (Cincinnati)
Position: PF | Size: 6’11”, 220 lbs | Age: 23 I Spain
Pro Comp: Jonathan Isaac
Despite taking a step backward as a shooter, Baba Miller is having his best college season with his third school. Averaging a double-double and over three assists per game, he’s been effective inside and a unique passer as a jumbo forward, though he shines most when he’s handling the ball in transition or putting it down in the half court. Scouts will be locked into his shooting stroke during pre-draft workouts.
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Jonathan Wasserman is the lead scout and NBA Draft analyst for Bleacher Report. You can follow him on X. The views on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of the NBA or its clubs.
Stats courtesy of Synergy Sports and Sports Reference.