The 2025‑26 college basketball season is officially underway, and with it comes our first real look at the freshmen who could define the 2026 NBA Draft. After months of hype, practices, and preseason showcases, we’re finally starting to see how these young prospects perform in live game action against top competition. From explosive wings to versatile big men and dynamic guards, this season will provide crucial answers for NBA scouts, and give fans an early glimpse at the future stars of the league.
AJ Dybantsa is a long, athletic forward whose combination of size, explosiveness, and scoring ability makes him an immediate standout at on this draft board. At 6‑9 with a strong frame, he can attack the rim with power and fluidity, allow him to dominate both ends of the floor. While his jumper still needs consistency, Dybantsa’s ability to create mismatches in transition and on the perimeter is advanced for his age. Defensively, he has the length to contest shots and the mobility and strenght to switch onto smaller players, giving him versatility that fits modern NBA schemes. If he continues refining his offensive skillset, Dybantsa has star potential and could be a future franchise cornerstone. I think given the size and athletic gifts and upside this is the pick I would make of the big three.
Darryn Peterson | Kansas | 6‑5 | 18.8
Darryn Peterson is the prototypical modern guard, blending elite ballhandling with playmaking vision and scoring efficiency. At Kansas, he excels in pick-and-roll situations and thrives off the dribble, creating separation with ease. He’s big enough for this new look NBA to guard and perhaps multiple positions effectively. I think the questions are on defense which is why I would draft him second. His pull-up jumper and ability to draw fouls make him a difficult cover for opponents, and his court IQ separates him from other freshmen prospects at this point. Peterson has the tools to be a first three lock, with a ceiling as a high-usage combo guard capable of leading a team offensively.
Cameron Boozer | Duke | 6‑8 | 18.3
Cameron Boozer enters Duke as one of the most productive young forwards from a young age in recent memory. The 6‑8 forward combines interior toughness scoring, rebounding, and passing into a versatile package. Boozer’s strength allows him to finish through contact, and his improving perimeter shooting keeps defenses honest. He is also a capable playmaker, finding cutters and open shooters in transition and half-court sets. While not the most explosive athlete compared to peers like Dybantsa, Boozer’s combination of skill, IQ, and production gives him a safe floor and a high ceiling if he continues refining his perimeter game. He’s very overdeveloped for a player his age physically and has been dominate in high school since his freshman season. I do worry some that he is peaking earlier and somewhat a product over being overdeveloped for his age. I expect he will probably put up the most impressive numbers at Duke of any of the freshmen. He got off to a slow start to the season, but in the exhibition season he had a 24 point 23 rebound 6 assist 1 turnover game against an always good Tennessee defense. He might have the highest floor in the class, but I’m not sure his game will fit in the to the NBA as the other two ahead of him.
Nate Ament | Tennessee | 6‑10 | 18.9
Nate Ament is a high-upside big man with wing-like mobility and shooting, making him a rare asset at 6‑10. His defensive versatility will allow him potentially to guard multiple positions and protect the rim effectively, while his offensive game features a smooth touch around the basket with range as well. Ament’s biggest area of growth will simply be physical strength, but his fluidity and basketball IQ and shooting make him a likely contributor from day one. He’s essentially the opposite of Boozer at this point in physical development. Tennessee will benefit from his ability to switch in pick-and-rolls and stretch defenses, and if he continues progressing, he could develop into a modern two-way NBA forward.
Caleb Wilson | North Carolina | 6‑8 | 19.3
Caleb Wilson is a skilled forward capable of producing efficiently in multiple ways. At 6‑8, he has the size to operate as a small-ball four but enough agility to function as a high-IQ wing starting alongside of two other bigs at UNC. Wilson’s scoring arsenal includes a soft midrange jumper, the ability to finish around the rim, and improved three-point accuracy. Defensively, he has the potential to be a versatile contributor, though lateral quickness and perimeter defense remain areas to refine. His combination of skill and production makes him a high-upside prospect, capable of emerging as a lottery-level player if he rounds out his defensive game. It’s possible he could play himself into the top three if he continues to put up the kind of performances he did versus Kansas.
Koa Peat | Arizona | 6‑7 | 18.8
Koa Peat is an explosive wing power foward with the ability to score at all three levels. His strength and athleticism allow him to finish in traffic, attack mismatches, and rebound effectively for his position. Peat’s perimeter shooting remains streaky, and his defensive footwork can be inconsistent, but his ceiling as a dynamic two-way forward who bullies players is undeniable. Arizona will rely on him to be an energetic scorer and versatile defender, and if Peat continues refining his jumper and defensive awareness, he could become a foundational piece for an NBA franchise, but he will need to make the switch more to the wing than the undersized forward he is playing in college.
Mikel Brown Jr. | Louisville | 6‑4 | 19.6
Mikel Brown Jr. is a sharp-shooting guard whose efficiency and vision make him a floor-spacer with upside as a playmaker. At 6‑4, he possesses the ability to navigate through traffic, set up teammates, and knock down shots from deep. Brown’s defensive impact is still developing, and he needs to add strength to consistently handle bigger NBA guards. Nevertheless, his ability to create off the dribble, combined with elite shot mechanics, makes him a valuable asset in modern pace-and-space offenses. A strong season at Louisville could easily solidify him as a mid-to-late first-round pick. He’s already off to a strong start with 29 points on Kentucky.
Darius Acuff Jr. | Arkansas | 6‑2 | 18.9
Darius Acuff Jr. is a guard who brings quickness, scoring instinct, and a high motor to the floor. At 6‑2, he may not be the most physically imposing player, but he compensates with craftiness, agility, and decision-making. Acuff excels in transition and has a developing outside shot, though consistency remains an issue. Arkansas will look to him as a primary ballhandler and scorer, and his ability to break down defenses will dictate his draft stock. With continued development, Acuff has the potential to become a reliable combo guard at the next level and is off to a strong start to the season.
Chris Cenac Jr. | Houston | 6‑10 | 18.8
Chris Cenac Jr. is a versatile big man with perimeter skills that make him adaptable to multiple systems. At 6‑10, he can stretch the floor, and rebound like a mad man. He’s already off to a good start with 23 rebounds in two games. Defensively, Cenac has length and mobility that allow him to protect the rim and switch effectively, though consistency is a work in progress. Anyone at Houston that is a big however is taken for their defensive ability, rebounding, and toughness. Houston will lean on him to space the floor a little and hustle and do high motor things with such a strong team returning. Cenac could emerge as a lottery pick.
Jayden Quaintance | Kentucky | 6‑8 | 18.3
Jayden Quaintance is a high-upside forward coming off an ACL injury, making this season pivotal for his draft stock. At 6‑8, he blends length, mobility, and defensive instincts to become a potential two-way asset. Quaintance shows flashes of scoring ability and playmaking, though his vertical explosiveness will need to be seen returning post-injury. What set him apart last year was his incredible block and steal rate and how disruptive he can be at such a young age. He’s still one of the youngest players. The fact he is so young bodes well for the injury recovery. Kentucky will rely on him to contribute defensively and expand his offensive game, and a strong comeback later in the year just to show he’s back could vault him into top ten contention. His combination of size, defensive versatility, and upside make him a player to monitor closely.
Tounde Yessoufou | Baylor | 6‑5 | 19.5
Tounde Yessoufou is an athletic wing with a versatile skill set that makes him an intriguing NBA prospect. At 6‑5, he combines length, speed, and defensive instincts to guard multiple positions, while offensively, he can attack closeouts and finish in transition. Yessoufou’s perimeter shot is still developing, but his ability to create off the dribble and make high-IQ passes adds value to any offense. Baylor will rely on him as a two-way contributor, and if he refines his jumper, he has the potential to emerge as a dynamic wing capable of impacting both ends of the floor at the next level. He should put up numbers with Baylor lacking some options, but he’s also a little older than your typical freshman as well which might limit the .
Labaron Philon | Alabama | 6‑3 | 19.9
Labaron Philon is a guard who blends explosiveness, vision, and scoring efficiency into a polished package. At 6‑3, he is capable of running an offense and creating opportunities for teammates while also finishing at the rim in traffic. Philon’s defensive instincts and quick hands allow him to generate steals and disrupt passing lanes, though his perimeter shooting can be streaky, but has looked better to start this year. Alabama will rely on him to be both a primary playmaker and an impact scorer, and with continued development, he has the tools to project as a starting NBA guard with a high floor and moderate ceiling.
Brayden Burries | Arizona | 6‑4 | 20.1
Brayden Burries is a combo guard with a scoring-first mentality and the ability to stretch defenses. At 6‑4, he has the size and athleticism to attack closeouts, slash to the basket, and create for others off the dribble. Burries’ shooting mechanics are solid, though his consistency from deep and playmaking under pressure are areas for growth. Arizona will lean on him for scoring bursts and perimeter spacing, and if he improves his decision-making in pick-and-roll sets, he could carve out a role as a high-energy, floor-spacing guard in the NBA. People will think of him in the context of being a freshman, but he’s much older than the typical freshman, that will limit his draft potential some.
Neoklis Avdalas | Virginia Tech | 6‑8 | 19.8
Neoklis Avdalas is a long, skilled forward with the potential to be a modern NBA stretch four with added playmaking of a wing. At 6‑8, he has the frame and mobility to impact both ends of the floor, with a smooth shooting stroke and the ability to create off the dribble. The passing has been impressive. Avdalas’ he can guard multiple positions, though strength and physicality remain areas to improve. He played at the highest level in Greece prior to arriving at Virginia Tech and had a 15 PER and was solid there as well and had an absolute stud game with 33 points 6 assist vs Providence in an overtime win. Avdalas projects as a high-upside player capable of being a multi-year starter at the next level with his passing and size.
Sergio De Larrea | Valencia (ESP) | 6‑5 | 19.9
Sergio De Larrea is an international prospect with strong fundamentals and scoring versatility. At 6‑5, he can create off the dribble, space the floor, and make plays in transition. His defensive game is solid, with good instincts and mobility allowing him to guard multiple positions, but physicality and strength need refinement for the NBA level. De Larrea’s experience in the European system gives him an advanced understanding of spacing, timing, and teamwork. If he continues developing his jumper and consistency, he could be a valuable two-way contributor and a sleeper pick in the draft.
Tahaad Pettiford | Auburn | 6‑1 | 20.3
Tahaad Pettiford is a crafty guard with strong scoring instincts and the ability to operate both on and off the ball. At 6‑1, he relies on agility, quickness, and footwork to navigate defenses and create opportunities for himself and teammates. The size and age are a little problematic but this is the range of the draft you start taking on warts. Pettiford’s perimeter shot is solid, and he can attack closeouts with authority, though size and strength limitations may affect his defensive matchups. Last year the SEC was basically one of the top leagues in the world, professional or otherwise and he was actually more productive in conference play. He was highly productive in that version as a teenage guard with a 20 PER in SEC play so I’ll trust he can figure this out. Auburn will lean on him as a playmaker and scorer, and with continued development, he could emerge as a reliable combo guard capable of contributing immediately at the next level.
Patrick Ngongba II | Duke | 6‑11 | 19.7
Patrick Ngongba II is an elite but old school big man with a rare combination of size, mobility, and skill. At 6‑11, he can, rebound at a high rate, and bully players around the basket, and hopefully eventually stretch the floor with a developing perimeter shot and impressive free throw shooting ability. It’s still a small sample and very limited but per 100 he’s posting respectable shot blocking and above average passing for a center. I’m not sure he will ever be a great defensive center, but the scoring rebounding and passing potential is big time.
Dame Sarr | Duke | 6‑7 | 19.4
Dame Sarr is a dynamic forward who excels in transition and possesses the tools to become a two-way NBA contributor. At 6‑7, he can guard multiple positions, and create mismatches with his combination of length and athleticism. Sarr’s offensive game is versatile—he can attack off the dribble, finish above the rim, and he knocked down more shots than you’d expect in the ACB, but consistency remains an area to develop on offense. You are mostly drafting on athletic potential and him being a defensive stopper early. Duke will utilize him as a high-energy scorer and defender, and with continued growth, Sarr has the potential to become a high-impact wing capable of influencing both ends at the next level.
Hannes Steinbach | Washington | 6‑10 | 19.5
Hannes Steinbach is a long, athletic big with the ability to impact games offensively and on the boards. At 6‑10, he has the mobility to switch onto perimeter players and protect the paint, making him a versatile defensive asset. Off to a strong start with 1.7 blocks a game and was very productive in the top German professional league as well last year. Overall with a 24 PER and he blocked a shot a game in 20 minutes vs many former NCAA All Conference bigs that were prime age. Very productive and impressive. Offensively, Steinbach is effective finishing around the rim and can stretch the floor with developing range. Washington will rely on him for rim protection, rebounding, and spacing, and with refinement in his offensive skillset and physical development, Steinbach projects as a modern NBA forward with two-way impact.
JT Toppin | Texas Tech | 6‑7 | 20.5
JT Toppin is an explosive Power Forward capable of scoring in multiple ways and contributing defensively. At 6‑7, he can attack the rim, create off the dribble, and rebound effectively for his position. His shooting is still a work in progress, but his athleticism and high motor make him a consistent playmaker in transition, and he’s simply the most impactful player in college basketball by our model returning. Toppin’s defensive versatility allows him to guard multiple positions, and Texas Tech will lean on him to be a dynamic scorer and disruptor. If he continues to refine his perimeter game and decision-making, Toppin could become a high-upside, forward in the NBA.
Karim Lopez is an international forward with a smooth blend of size, skill, and athleticism. At 6‑8, he can stretch the floor, create for teammates, and operate in transition. Lopez’s combination of length and mobility allows him to guard multiple positions, though he will need to add strength to compete at the NBA level consistently. Playing overseas has given him valuable experience against grown men, improving his decision-making and basketball IQ. Lopez projects as a versatile wing with upside as a multi-year contributor if his offensive skills continue to develop.
Christian Anderson Jr. | Texas Tech | 6‑2 | 19.6
Christian Anderson Jr. is a high-energy guard known for his playmaking and scoring ability. At 6‑2, he relies on quickness, craftiness, and court vision to create offense, while also generating defensive opportunities through steals and pressure. His perimeter shooting is solid but inconsistent, and he will need to refine his decision-making in tight spaces. Texas Tech will lean on Anderson to run the offense and contribute as a secondary scorer. With continued growth, he has the tools to be a reliable combo guard capable of impacting both ends of the floor.
Paul McNeil | NC State | 6‑5 | 19.6
Paul McNeil is a forward with a strong blend of athleticism, length, and versatility. At 6‑5, he can operate as a secondary ball-handler, attack the rim, and create matchup problems for opposing wings. McNeil’s defensive instincts are advanced, and he can guard multiple positions in help situations. He did not play much last year, but when he did he was highly productive and should turn that into a breakout season this year. NC State will utilize him as a two-way contributor who can generate offense through drives, cuts, and transition opportunities. With continued development on his perimeter shot and finishing, McNeil projects as a high-energy wing with starter potential at the next level.
JoJo Tugler | Houston | 6‑7 | 20.5
JoJo Tugler is a long, athletic forward who excels in transition and on the defensive end. At 6‑7, he can guard multiple positions, protect the rim, and rebound at an elite level, while also running the floor in fast-break situations. Offensively, Tugler’s shot is still a work in progress, he may never be able to shoot, but he can create opportunities with athletic finishes and slashing ability. Houston will rely on him as a versatile contributor on both ends of the floor. He’s similar to Jayden Quaintance but the age will limit the ceiling and spot he’s drafted unlike Quaintance. Tugler has the potential to be a wing stopper capable of impacting NBA rotations early in his career on defense. He also has a deceptively long wingspan that will allow him to guard in the post as well. He will never develop an outside shot, but that almost doesn’t matter the way he defends. He’s the best defensive player in college basketball regardless and could be one of the best in the NBA. I guess he’s the test case of will a defense only player be valued at this level. I think someone will draft him and find a way to use it, and if the shot ever came around to the level to keep teams honest, he’d be special. He still should be good enough to play Center on offense in the dunker role and dominate on defense all over the court.
Adam Atamna | ASVEL | 6‑5 | 17.9
Adam Atamna is a young, international wing with advanced fundamentals and high upside. At 6‑5, he possesses smooth shooting mechanics, strong footwork, and the ability to run the floor effectively. Atamna’s defensive instincts are solid, though he will need to add strength to handle more physical NBA matchups. Playing overseas in ASVEL’s system has given him early exposure to professional-level competition, boosting his basketball IQ and adaptability. With continued growth, Atamna projects as a versatile wing with a high ceiling as both a scorer and playmaker.
Flory Bidunga | Kansas | 6‑10 | 20.5
Flory Bidunga is an athletic, long big man with rim-protection capabilities and a developing offensive game. At 6‑10, he has the length and mobility to defend the paint, contest shots, and rebound at a high level. Offensively, Bidunga is still raw but shows flashes of scoring around the rim and stretching the floor with a developing jumper. Kansas will use him primarily as a defensive anchor and rebounder, and if he adds skill and polish to his offensive game, Bidunga has the potential to be a high-impact big capable of influencing both ends in the NBA. He did play some minutes at power forward last year which is promising as well.
Thomas Haugh | Florida | 6‑9 | 22.3
Thomas Haugh is a seasoned big with size, strength, and experience that translates well to professional basketball who is exploring his wing potential this season. He’s looking pretty solid so far shooting more and with his passing. At 6‑9, he can, rebound efficiently, and finish through contact and make some three’s. Haugh’s offensive skillset had been more limited, focusing primarily on putbacks, pick-and-roll finishing, and mid-range shots but seems to be expanding to a number one option. He played a crucial role on Florida’s national championship team and this year will be relied on him as an offensive presence. While his ceiling may be more limited than younger prospects, Haugh’s maturity and polish make him a low-risk contributor capable of providing immediate impact. At this spot in the draft there are winning playoff teams in need of those.
Tomislav Ivisic | Illinois | 6‑11 | 22.3
Tomislav Ivisic is a veteran big with size, length, and positional versatility. At 6‑11, he can protect the rim, alter shots, and stretch the floor with his three point ability. Ivisic’s experience and strength make him capable of handling physical matchups, though his offensive polish and skill is solid. Illinois will look to him as a defensive anchor and a spacing option, and his combination of mobility and size gives him potential as a rotational NBA big capable of contributing in pick-and-roll schemes and on the glass.
Anthony Robinson II | Missouri | 6‑3 | 20.9
Anthony Robinson II is a combo guard with scoring instincts and playmaking ability and upside. At 6‑3, he can navigate defenses with quickness and craft, create for teammates, and attack closeouts effectively. Robinson’s shooting mechanics are solid and he’s been pretty consistent at this level although the volume has been low and will need to be ramped up. It seems that is happening so far.. Missouri will lean on him as a secondary ball-handler and primary scorer, and his defensive capabilities allow him to generate turnovers in transition. With continued development, Robinson projects as a versatile combo guard. He didn’t play much last year, but that’s more a product of strange coaching rotations than what he was doing on the court in my opinion.
Isaiah Evans | Duke | 6‑6 | 19.9
Isaiah Evans is a forward with length, versatility, and a solid offensive game. At 6‑6 he’s never met a shot he did like. Evans’ perimeter shooting is there and playmaking skills are still developing, but he has the tools to stretch defenses and contribute in transition. Defense is the concern, and can he or is he willing to play hard on that side of the ball. He seems to have the length to impact there. Duke will look to him for scoring bursts and to give them something defensively more than he has. Evans projects to have two-way potential on the wing capable if the effort is there.
Joshua Jefferson | Iowa State | 6‑8 | 21.9
Joshua Jefferson is a long, versatile forward who excels as a two-way contributor. At 6‑8, he can defend multiple positions, protect the rim, and rebound effectively, while also operating as a secondary playmaker on offense. Everyone can use two way wings and he sneaky one of the best defenders and players in college basketball. Jefferson’s skill set includes finishing around the basket, mid-range shooting, and the ability to create for teammates in transition. Iowa State relies on him for energy, defensive versatility, and scoring bursts. With continued development of his perimeter shot and ball-handling, Jefferson projects as a multi-dimensional wing/ power forward capable of contributing immediately in rotation-heavy roles at the professional level with his defense.
Henri Veesaar | North Carolina | 7‑0 | 21.6
Henri Veesaar is a towering center with elite length, shot-blocking instincts, and rim-protecting ability but with three point shooting potential. At 7‑0, he can anchor a defense, alter shots, and control the boards. Offensively, Veesaar’s game is still developing, relying primarily on finishes near the rim and pick-and-roll opportunities but with some stretch ability already. If the ability to make three’s continues at the current rate of 1 make per game at 42% he will move up this board. North Carolina leverages his defensive presence and ability to stretch defenses when necessary. With skill refinement, particularly on the offensive end, Veesaar has the potential to be a true two-way big man capable of contributing immediately.
Johann Grunloh | Virginia | 7‑0 | 20.2
Johann Grunloh is a young, athletic big man with significant upside at both ends of the floor. At 7‑0, he combines length, mobility, and shot-altering ability, making him a natural rim protector. His real value is in the shotblocking and he could project as an elite shot blocker, but with some stretch ability. In the top German league he averaged 1.5 blocks a game in 22 minutes while also a three a game at 34%. That’s exactly the cross skills you like to see. Virginia utilizes him as a defensive cornerstone while slowly developing his offensive skill, including finishing around the rim and stretching the floor with a three he has a lottery potential if it all comes together. Grunloh’s youth and athletic profile make him one of the highest-upside prospects late projections on the board.
Nate Bittle | Oregon | 7‑0 | 22.5
Nate Bittle is a physically imposing center with elite size, strength, and defensive presence. At 7‑0, he excels in shot-blocking, rebounding, and protecting the paint. Offensively, Bittle is still raw but shows flashes as a rim-finisher and pick-and-roll option. He’s already one of the most productive players returning to college basketball. Oregon relies on his physical dominance and scoring ability around the rim mostly but he has shown some three point shooting ability making 1 a game at 33% last year. He also blocked 2.1 shots as well giving him that cross skills you want. He’s even a solid passer for the center position at 2 assist a game. With continued skill development, Bittle projects as a traditional two-way center capable of providing immediate impact at the next level, particularly as a defensive anchor and rebounder who does a little of everything. Ultimately the age is what will hold him back from being drafted higher.
Dash Daniels | Melbourne United (AUS) | 6‑6 | 17.9
Dash Daniels is a highly promising young wing whose versatility and defensive acumen make him a standout among international prospects. At 6‑6, he possesses the size, strength, and length to defend multiple positions, switch effectively, and disrupt offenses at the point of attack. Offensively, Daniels is an aggressive downhill player who excels at cutting, finishing in traffic, and creating opportunities for teammates, though his jumper remains a work in progress. Playing for Melbourne United, he has already showcased poise, court awareness, and a high basketball IQ despite his youth. His physical tools, competitive drive, and defensive instincts suggest that with continued refinement of his shooting mechanics and offensive consistency, Daniels could project as a versatile two-way contributor at the next level. What he has going for him the most is he’s one of the youngest players in this class.
Bennett Stirtz | Iowa | 6‑4 | 22.1
Bennett Stirtz is a versatile guard capable of contributing early on to an NBA team in need of ball handling. At 6‑4 offensively, Stirtz is a reliable scorer who can attack the rim, knock down mid-range shots, and create for teammates. Iowa relies on him nearly the entire game, and his combination of skill, size, and experience makes him a low-risk rotational player. If Stirtz continues to refine his shooting consistency and playmaking, he projects as a reliable combo guard at the professional level.
