With Cooper Flagg headlining the 2025 NBA Draft as the consensus No. 1 pick, attention now shifts to the 2026 NBA Draft class — a group with more uncertainty and a deeper field of elite prospects vying for the top spot.
At least three players — AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, and Cameron Boozer — currently stand out as potential No. 1 picks, with college basketball next season set to play a pivotal role in determining their draft order. Here’s an early look at the top prospects and what makes this class so intriguing.
The Big Three: Dybantsa, Peterson, Boozer
1️⃣ AJ Dybantsa – BYU – Wing – 6’9
The consensus No. 1 prospect in high school, Dybantsa is a dynamic 6’9” scorer with elite shot creation and competitive fire. His scoring outbursts on the EYBL circuit and with Team USA have scouts projecting him as a future All-Star wing. Playing at BYU, Dybantsa is expected to put up big numbers and showcase his upside on both ends.
2️⃣ Darryn Peterson – Kansas – Guard – 6’5
Peterson, a powerful 6’5” combo guard, has been described by Bill Self as “the best player I’ve ever recruited.” With a pro-ready frame, slashing ability, and a growing perimeter game, Peterson has the tools to become an NBA star.
3️⃣ Cameron Boozer – Duke – Forward – 6’9
The son of Carlos Boozer, Cameron Boozer is a winner at every level, having racked up state titles and EYBL championships. A versatile forward with a polished game, Boozer projects as a high-floor, impactful player who could thrive early in his NBA career.
Other Names to Watch
- Nate Ament (Tennessee): A late riser with elite size (6’9”) and developing perimeter skills.
- Jayden Quaintance (Kentucky): A bouncy, switchable defender with upside if healthy.
- Mikel Brown Jr. (Louisville): A shifty point guard with a high IQ and playmaking flair.
- Karim Lopez (Mexico): International standout with two-way wing potential.
- Darius Acuff (Arkansas): Explosive lead guard and FIBA MVP with scoring punch.
- Isaiah Evans (Duke): Knockdown shooter and defensive asset on the wing.
- Caleb Wilson (North Carolina): Physically gifted forward who can impact both ends.
Depth Beyond the Lottery
Beyond the headliners, the 2026 class features a wealth of talent, including defensive anchors like Chris Cenac Jr. (Houston), high-motor wings like Tounde Yessoufou (Baylor), and sharpshooters like Thomas Haugh (Florida).
This group also features an impressive international contingent, with prospects such as Dash Daniels (Australia) and Karim Lopez making waves early.
What to Expect in 2026
While there’s no clear-cut No. 1 like Flagg, the 2026 NBA Draft class has multiple players with All-Star potential and a mix of floor-raising, NBA-ready prospects and high-ceiling developmental talent.
With college basketball and international leagues set to showcase these players over the next year, fans and scouts alike will have plenty to watch as the race for No. 1 heats up.
