With the 2025 NBA Draft come and gone, plus the conclusion of Summer League, now is the time to take a first look at the incoming prospects. Unquestionably, the 2026 NBA Draft looks to be another deep draft class full of amazing and talented players. It is a class that appears to have even more overall talent than the previous one as star talent is abundant, even beyond the top three of the class. Based on the draft order from Tankathon, let’s dive into a way-too-early 2026 NBA mock draft.
2026 NBA Mock Draft 0.5: Way Too Early Edition
1. Utah Jazz: Darryn Peterson, Kansas, SG/PG
Undoubtedly, it is difficult to go wrong with any of the top three prospects in the 2026 NBA Draft, as each is elite in their own way. For this early mock, the Jazz will select the best guard prospect in the class, Kansas-commit Darryn Peterson. Standing at six-foot-five, Peterson has an excellent blend of size, skill, and athleticism to be one of the best guard prospects of the last decade. Not only can he effectively score on all three levels with confidence, but he can also play good defense and serve as a playmaker. Furthermore, Peterson can manufacture advantages as a scorer like it’s nobody’s business, and make tough shots at a high level.
Considering his well-rounded skill set and his lack of any truly notable weaknesses, Peterson is the exact type of player that the Jazz should build around. He certainly has the upside to be the primary creator for the Jazz and give the team a true star that they’ve been missing. Additionally, his overall skill set fits well next to Utah’s current young core, especially next to Ace Bailey.
2. Washington Wizards: Cameron Boozer, Duke, PF/C
Landing second in this way-too-early mock is the Washington Wizards, and they select Cameron Boozer. Standing at six-foot-nine, the son of former NBA All-Star Carlos Boozer is a highly talented two-way forward who has won at every stage of his basketball career. He is absolutely a dominant force in the paint on both ends of the floor and has the production to boot. Besides his raw stats, Boozer’s best attributes as a prospect are his excellent basketball IQ, high feel for the game, and excellent passing vision at his position. Boozer certainly can be the franchise cornerstone the Wizards have failed to gain since the start of their rebuild. He has the skills to be a central hub for Washington on both ends. Boozer, alongside Alex Sarr and Bilal Coulibaly, would create a stout Washington defense.
3. Brooklyn Nets: AJ Dybantsa, BYU, SF
The Brooklyn Nets also gain a prospect with star upside to build around in BYU wing AJ Dybantsa. Standing at six-foot-nine, Dybantsa is built, both in terms of skills and physical tools, as the consummate star wing prospect. He possesses an advanced three-level scoring arsenal that makes him an excellent shot creator and maker. Additionally, his athleticism and physical tools make him even more effective on both ends of the floor, allowing him to make explosive plays. Those physical tools, paired with his size, give him defensive versatility, and he can be extremely disruptive out on the court. Unquestionably, Dybantsa would give the Nets a true primary scoring option to build around.
4. Charlotte Hornets: Jayden Quaintance, Kentucky, C/PF
While the Hornets did take Creighton big man Ryan Kalkbrenner in the most recent draft, they still need another defensive big man on the roster. That’s why this early mock will have them take Kentucky transfer Jayden Quaintance. At just 17 years old, Quaintance was one of the better defensive center prospects in college basketball. He is an outstanding shot blocker and overall defender at his position despite his smaller size at six-foot-nine. Also, he has the vertical athleticism, quickness, and fluidity to be a versatile defensive piece who can defend the perimeter. While Quaintance did tear his ACL last season, his production and defensive upside would be a major get for Charlotte’s young core. Not only can he bring defense, but Quaintance’s driving and play finishing would pair well next to LaMelo Ball.
5. Portland Trail Blazers: Nate Ament, Tennessee, SF
The Trail Blazers have the 5th overall pick in this mock, and they will take Tennessee forward Nate Ament. Standing at six-foot-nine, Ament is a three-level scoring wing with excellent athleticism and physical tools. He will give Portland a high-level shot-maker on the wings who has the potential to be an amazing defender. Furthermore, Ament has also shown flashes as a passer as well. The main and clearest weakness of Ament is his lack of strength on his frame, but should he develop in that area, he will be a true star for Portland. His floor spacing will be an excellent complement next to Scoot Henderson.
6. Chicago Bulls: Chris Cenac Jr., Houston, PF/C
For the purposes of this mock, the Chicago Bulls will select Chris Cenac Jr. with the sixth overall pick. In Cenac, the Bulls will gain a true defensive presence in the paint who has the athleticism and skills to be a two-way star. That athleticism, alongside his fluidity and quickness, makes him a versatile defender who can guard multiple positions. Plus, he is an excellent rim protector, rebounder, and shot blocker. Undoubtedly, the six-foot-ten big man can be a true replacement for Nikola Vucevic as he ages out of the NBA and serve as the potential center of the future.
7. Memphis Grizzlies (via Phoenix Suns): Karim Lopez, New Zealand Breakers, SF
The Memphis Grizzlies are in an interesting position as they do have a pretty deep team. Nevertheless, they can still use more wings on the roster. Thus, taking Karim Lopez with the 7th overall pick would be the right choice. The six-foot-eight forward has the size and athleticism to be a two-way wing in the league. On the offensive end, Lopez has demonstrated himself to be a physical driver of the basketball who can bully smaller defenders. Plus, he is also a great cutter and a potential three-point shooter as well. His physicality and athleticism also translate to the defensive end. He will be an excellent fit on the Grizzlies as a player who can defend bigger wings and serve in complementary roles next to Jaren Jackson Jr. and Ja Morant.
8. Sacramento Kings: Mikel Brown Jr., Louisville, PG
The Sacramento Kings desperately need a true offensive distributor on the roster, which is a role Mikel Brown Jr. can fill. The six-foot-five guard proved himself to be an excellent point guard prospect and three-level scorer in the 2025 FIBA U19 World Cup. He is an excellent passer who has great court vision to pair with his three-level scoring, making him a true offensive threat. Not only that, but Brown Jr. is also an expert ball-handler and operator in the pick-and-roll. Considering the lack of a true point guard and the overabundance of scorers on the roster, Brown Jr. seems to be a natural choice for Sacramento.
9. Atlanta Hawks (via New Orleans Pelicans): Tounde Yessoufou, Baylor, SG
The Atlanta Hawks are always looking to obtain athletic and defensive personnel around Trae Young. With that in mind, taking Tounde Yessoufou would be the right choice at pick nine. The six-foot-five Yessoufou is a well-built, athletic guard who can be a threat on both ends of the floor. On the offensive end, Yessoufou uses his strength, physicality, and athleticism to bully his way into the paint. Furthermore, he has shown himself to be an overall three-level scorer who loves to operate in the mid-range. On defense, his strength and mobility allow him the versatility to guard multiple positions. Additionally, he has a high motor defensively as well. He can be an incredible fit next to Young and the rest of the personnel on the Hawks, fitting in their defensive culture around Young.
10. Miami Heat: Caleb Wilson, UNC, PF
The Miami Heat still need more youth and upside on the roster, both of which Caleb Wilson can provide. The six-foot-nine forward has the potential to be a formidable two-way force who can also space the floor. Specifically, his athleticism and physical tools allow him to be a switchable defender who can guard multiple positions as well as a dominant rim protector and rebounder. Also, Wilson’s athleticism translates offensively as a paint finisher and offensive rebounder. While his shot still needs work, Wilson does have the potential to be a floor spacer. His two-way potential would be an amazing fit in the frontcourt next to Bam Adebayo and Kel’el Ware. The trio could form an excellent defensive unit that would make the paint a no-fly zone.
11. Toronto Raptors: Bennett Stirtz, Iowa, PG
It’s clear that the Raptors lacked good point guard play for the majority of last season. Due to that, taking one of the best guards in college basketball this previous season in Bennett Stirtz is a great idea. He demonstrated his excellent offensive capabilities, both on and off the ball. Offensively, Stirtz is an efficient three-level scorer who can put up points from anywhere on the court. Additionally, Stirtz proved himself to be an amazing floor general for Drake last season. In particular, he has great court vision and passing ability, allowing him to make concise passes to the right man. Stirtz has a natural feel for passing in the pick-and-roll as well. He can give the Raptors a true offensive initiator next to Scottie Barnes and someone who can run the offense when Barnes sits. Plus, his ability to knock down threes is definitely appreciated on the Raptors.
12. Memphis Grizzlies: Neoklis Avdalas, Virginia Tech, SF/PG
With the 12th overall pick in this early mock, the Grizzlies take Greek wing Neoklis Avdalas. In the six-foot-eight wing, Memphis adds a jumbo-sized offensive initiator who can scale his game up and down based on the situation. Avdalas is capable of spacing the floor in an off-ball role and has the processing speed to quickly move the ball around or cut in a connective role. On the ball, Avdalas has shown himself to be a good passer who reads the floor well. Considering those aspects, adding someone like Advalas makes sense for the Grizzlies. His size separates him from the guard initiators on the team, but he can still fill an off-ball role if needed.
13. Indiana Pacers: Koa Peat, Arizona, PF
With the 13th overall pick, the Indiana Pacers have the chance to add more talent in a lost year. Using that pick, this mock will have them take Arizona forward Koa Peat. Peat was one of the most productive high school players, utilizing his strength, physical tools, and touch to be a two-way threat. He operates well in the paint and the mid-range area, his natural touch around the basketball making him a dominant paint scorer. Additionally, Peat is a very solid passer and rebounder as well. Defensively, Peat uses his tools well, constantly being disruptive in passing lanes. Combining his touch and defensive playmaking, Peat is a major threat in transitions. Considering those aspects, Peat would be a great get for Indiana. The Pacers would get another strong-bodied forward who can create transition opportunities on defense and have the touch to be a major threat next to Tyrese Haliburton.
14. San Antonio Spurs: Dame Sarr, Duke, SG/SF
The Spurs can always use more wings around Victor Wembanyama and the other stars on the team. With that in mind, the Spurs take a swing at Duke wing Dame Sarr. He has the athleticism and physical tools to be a two-way wing for them. Offensively, Sarr uses his athleticism to aggressively slash to the basket and be a force in transition. He can also handle the ball and create for others in a limited capacity. His shooting still needs work; however, Sarr has shown flashes of being a threat from distance. The defensive end is where the six-foot-seven wing shines the most, as he has demonstrated himself as a strong, switchable defender who can guard multiple positions. That combination of skills and tools makes him a great choice for the Spurs on the wings. He can solidify a strong defense around Wembanyama while having upside offensively.
15. Milwaukee Bucks: Tahaad Pettiford, Auburn, PG
Just based on the roster of the Milwaukee Bucks, it’s apparent that they need more young talent at the guard position. They can fix that issue by taking Auburn guard Tahaad Pettiford, adding more firepower around Giannis Antetokounmpo. In Pettiford, the Bucks will get a guard who can score efficiently on all three levels and has the upside of being an excellent playmaker. He can add more dynamic scoring to a Bucks team that lacks any meaningful scoring punch outside of Antetokounmpo.
16. Detroit Pistons: Labaron Philon, Alabama, PG
Another sophomore goes in this mock draft as Labaron Philon heads to the Detroit Pistons. The six-foot-four guard can provide Detroit with additional playmaking and defense off the bench as the backup point guard behind Cade Cunningham. Additionally, Philon is an extremely capable rim scorer who uses his craftiness and handle to slither his way into the paint. He can be the long-term solution at backup point guard that Detroit has been looking for while fitting into their defensive culture.
17. Boston Celtics: Thomas Haugh, Florida, PF/C
Considering the significant loss to their frontcourt due to free agency and trades, taking Florida big Thomas Haugh would be a great choice for a Boston team down on their luck. Standing at six-foot-nine, Haugh is an athletic big who can be an impactful player on both ends of the floor. On defense, Haugh is capable of guarding various positions while defending in different defensive coverages. Offensively, Haugh has shown himself as a big who can shoot the ball and be a connective passer within an offense. He has all the skills that the Celtics love from their bigs and would fit well in their system.
18. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Philadelphia 76ers): Yaxel Lendeborg, Michigan, PF
With the first of their picks in this draft, the Thunder will take Michigan forward Yaxel Lendeborg. The six-foot-nine forward can get the Thunder the additional size they need while also perfectly fitting in their draft philosophy. Specifically, Lendeborg can dribble, pass, and shoot while also playing high-level defense. Not only that, but Lendeborg is also a great rebounder on both ends as well. He has all the skills to be an immediate contributor to an Oklahoma City team amid their contending years. Plus, he will be more NBA-ready due to his college experience as a junior.
19. Dallas Mavericks: Isiah Harwell, Houston, SG
The Dallas Mavericks can use additional guard play on the roster, which is something Isiah Harwell can fill. Standing at six-foot-six, Harwell is a strong-bodied guard who can provide two-way impact. He can provide value offensively as an off-ball spacer who can also knock down shots in the mid-range. Plus, Harwell has shown solid cutting and connective passing instincts. Defensively, he has the size and strength to be a versatile defender who can guard multiple positions. Harwell has the skills and talent to fit within the defensive culture of the Mavericks while still providing value as a floor spacer.
20. Atlanta Hawks: Karter Knox, Arkansas, SF
After taking Yessoufou earlier, this mock will have the Hawks take a wing in Arkansas forward Karter Knox. Standing at six-foot-six, the younger brother of free agent forward Kevin Knox is a springy, athletic wing who can perform explosive highlights on both ends of the court. He loves getting to the rim and throwing down powerful dunks. Not only that, but Knox is capable of being a solid shooter from three. Knox has also shown plenty of excellent flashes on the defensive end, utilizing his physical gifts to be a stout defender. Knox is the exact type of wing the Hawks love to place around Young and would be a great fit there.
21. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Los Angeles Clippers): Nikolas Khamenia, Duke, SF
With the second of the three picks the Thunder has in this draft, they will take Duke forward Nikolas Khamenia. The six-foot-eight wing is another player who fits in the Thunder’s draft philosophy, as he is a player who can dribble, pass, and shoot. Additionally, Khamenia possesses high basketball IQ and feel for the game, demonstrated by his impressive cutting instincts and passing ability. Plus, while Khamenia still needs to develop his body, he does have a solid understanding of where he needs to be on defense. Overall, Khamenia has the skills to fit perfectly into the style of play the Thunder wants from their players.
22. Golden State Warriors: Braylon Mullins, UConn, SG
The Golden State Warriors can use additional depth in the backcourt, and it doesn’t hurt to add more floor spacing to the roster. In that case, taking UConn guard Braylon Mullins is the right move. Unquestionably, Mullins is one of the premier snipers in the 2026 draft, being able to knock down threes at an elite level. The six-foot-five guard can shoot the ball in a variety of ways and from way beyond the arc. Not only that, but Mullins has enough athleticism to be a threat to throw down impressive dunks or attack closeouts. He also has a high basketball IQ and motor, which translates defensively as he is a hound for stealing balls. His skills would be an excellent fit on Golden State’s roster and in their offensive system.
23. Minnesota Timberwolves: Isaiah Evans, Duke, SG/SF
The Minnesota Timberwolves can’t go wrong with adding more shooting to the roster, which is something Isaiah Evans provides in spades. The six-foot-six wing from Duke is known for his amazing shooting skills and overall scoring ability. Not only can Evans shoot the ball in various ways, but he also has the athleticism to put the ball on the deck and drive to the basket. Plus, he has shown some passing potential as well. Of course, Evans still needs to develop the other parts of his game. However, His elite shooting would be a big help for the Wolves and their need for floor spacing.
24. Charlotte Hornets (via Orlando Magic): Miles Byrd, San Diego State, SG/SF
The Hornets can use more defensive help on the wings, which is where San Diego State wing Miles Byrd comes into the picture. The six-foot-six wing has demonstrated himself this past season as an elite defensive wing in college basketball. In particular, Byrd racks up steals and blocks like it’s nothing, and he has the athleticism to be a versatile defender who can guard multiple positions. Furthermore, Byrd has shown the potential to knock down shots from beyond the arc, which would make him a valuable 3-and-D wing. Not only that, but Byrd also possesses solid connective passing instincts. He would be a perfect complement to the Hornets and give them the perimeter defense they so desperately need.
25. Los Angeles Lakers: Patrick Ngongba II, Duke, PF/C
It has been clear for many seasons that the Los Angeles Lakers need a long-term solution at the center position. With that in mind, the Lakers taking Patrick Ngongba II would be a solid choice for the franchise. Ngongba offers all the things the Lakers need out of a center, which are defense, rebounding, and play-finishing. Standing at six-foot-eleven, Ngongba has the strength to bang defensively with centers in the post and be a threat to score in the post on the other end. Speaking of offense, Ngongba possesses solid touch in the paint and has flashed solid passing instincts as well. While he isn’t the most athletic big, he will provide the Lakers with steady and solid play, which will only be amplified playing next to stars like Luka Doncic and possibly LeBron James.
26. New York Knicks: Cayden Boozer, Duke, PG/SG
The Knicks can use another bigger guard on the roster who can help facilitate the offense. They can find someone like that in Cayden Boozer, the twin brother of Cam Boozer. Standing at six-foot-four, Boozer is a bigger point guard who is known for his high basketball IQ and his mature game. He possesses advanced playmaking abilities, especially in the pick-and-roll. Boozer sees the floor well and has the feel to dictate the flow of the game at his own pace. Additionally, Boozer has shown himself to be a strong defender despite his lack of overall athleticism. He’s great at using his length to force turnovers, and Boozer knows where he needs to be on defense. Plus, Boozer’s size allows him the defensive versatility to defend bigger guards. He has the qualities to be an immediate fit for the Knicks and help solve some of their offensive issues.
27. Cleveland Cavaliers: Dash Daniels, Melbourne United, SG
While the Cleveland Cavaliers are a well-rounded team, they can use another defensive-minded guard. Considering that, drafting Dash Daniels, the younger brother of Dyson Daniels, would be a good option to take. Standing at six-foot-five, Daniels is one of the better defensive guards in this draft, much like his brother. He demonstrated that he has excellent defensive ability and instincts. Daniels knows exactly where he needs to be and how to be disruptive using his length. Plus, he does have the defensive versatility to guard multiple positions. Daniels is still quite raw offensively, but he does have multiple flashes of being a good playmaker. His defensive capabilities and upside offensively would be a good gamble for the Cavaliers.
28. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Houston Rockets): Brayden Burries, Arizona, PG/SG
With the last of their three picks in this draft, the Thunder will take Arizona guard Brayden Burries. Like the other Oklahoma City picks earlier in this mock, Burries fits into the dribble, pass, shoot draft philosophy that the Thunder have when selecting players. Standing at six-foot-four, Burries has the versatility on both ends to do a little bit of everything while being extremely talented at getting into the lane. While he isn’t the most consistent shooter, he does have touch in the mid-range, and his free-throw numbers are good. Elsewhere, Burries has also shown that he is a solid playmaker and stout defender who can defend bigger guards. Overall, Burries would be an immediate fit for the Thunder.
29. Denver Nuggets: Darius Acuff Jr., Arkansas, PG
The Nuggets could use additional scoring punch from the guard position outside of Jamal Murray. One guard prospect with tantalizing offensive upside is Arkansas-commit Darius Acuff Jr., who is one of the top high school recruits in the country. As a player, Acuff can score on all three levels, utilizing his speed and explosiveness to burst past defenders. Acuff can also take and make tough shots with supreme confidence. He is an excellent ball-handler and has great understanding of operating the pick-and-roll. Additionally, Acuff has shown solid passing flashes, which would make him an even better offensive player. Acuff to the Nuggets would give him a mentor to learn under in Murray, and he would help them with more scoring.
30. Washington Wizards (via Oklahoma City Thunder): Hannes Steinbach, Washington, PF/C
Despite taking Boozer earlier in this mock, they can still use more size on the roster. With that in mind, taking Washington big Hannes Steinbach wouldn’t be a bad choice. Standing at six-foot-eleven, Steinbach demonstrated himself in the FIBA U19 World Cup as an excellent interior scorer and rebounder. The German big possesses great touch around the rim and solid cutting ability. He has the strength and skill to bang down low in the post while also showing flashes of passing upside. He can give the Wizards another big who can provide solid production and play behind Sarr and Boozer.
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