As we inch closer to Selection Sunday, the buzz around the 2026 NBA Draft class is reaching a fever pitch. This year's crop of talent is shaping up to be something extraordinary, with plenty of movement on our latest big board beyond the top four. But even at the summit, debates are heating up.
Darryn Peterson: A Talent with Questions
Darryn Peterson has held the top spot all season, yet his availability saga continues to raise eyebrows. When he's on the court, Peterson exceeds expectations, showcasing skills that justify his top ranking.
However, his frequent absences and tentative play have left NBA executives pondering his long-term durability. In today's NBA, availability is as crucial as talent, especially when a franchise is banking on you for the future.
Peterson's season has sparked questions about his physical resilience and any underlying factors contributing to this pattern.
AJ Dybantsa: Offensive Powerhouse with Room to Grow
Meanwhile, AJ Dybantsa is lighting up the scoreboard, leading Division I with 24.8 points per game. His ability to pressure the rim and finish through contact is impressive, yet BYU's struggles-losing six of their last nine-highlight areas for improvement. Dybantsa's defensive intensity and body language seem to fluctuate with his team's success, resurfacing old questions about his impact on winning.
Cameron Boozer: The Consistent Winner
Then there's Cameron Boozer, whose game might not be as flashy as Peterson's or Dybantsa's, but his impact on winning is undeniable. At Duke, Boozer is the linchpin of a 24-2 team, despite not having a star-studded supporting cast.
His track record of championships at every level speaks volumes, making him a favorite for national player of the year. Boozer's consistency and leadership are making some wonder if he deserves more consideration at the top of the draft.
Freshmen Class: Elite Across the Board
Beyond the big three, this freshman class is proving to be truly elite. Caleb Wilson was stellar for North Carolina before his injury, nudging into top-three pick conversations.
Kingston Flemings and Keaton Wagler continue to impress, while Darius Acuff dominates at Arkansas. Mikel Brown and Nate Ament are also finding their stride at Louisville and Tennessee, respectively.
The depth is particularly evident among point guards, with Peterson, Flemings, Wagler, Brown, and Acuff all projected as top-ten picks. Bennett Stirtz and Labaron Philon might push for lottery spots, and Christian Anderson looks like a solid first-rounder.
Center Position: Intriguing Depth
While the center position lacks a clear star, it offers intriguing prospects. Jayden Quaintance leads the pack, but players like Henri Veesaar, Flory Bidunga, and others are all vying for first-round consideration. Their decisions on whether to stay in college or enter the draft will be a storyline to watch, impacting the overall strength of this position in the draft.
With March Madness around the corner, these storylines are just beginning to unfold. The anticipation for this draft class is immense, and many of these prospects will be showcasing their talents in the NCAA Tournament.
NBA Draft Big Board Top 10
- Darryn Peterson, Kansas, Fr, PG, 6-6
- AJ Dybantsa, BYU, Fr, SF, 6-9
- Cameron Boozer, Duke, Fr, PF, 6-9
- Caleb Wilson, N.
Carolina, Fr, PF, 6-10
5.
Kingston Flemings, Houston, Fr, PG, 6-4
6.
Keaton Wagler, Illinois, Fr, PG, 6-6
7.
Mikel Brown Jr., Louisville, Fr, PG, 6-5
8.
Nate Ament, Tennessee, Fr, PF, 6-10
9.
Darius Acuff Jr., Arkansas, Fr, PG, 6-3
10.
Thomas Haugh, Florida, Jr, PF, 6-9
As we gear up for the NCAA Tournament, keep an eye on these players-they're set to make waves both on the court and in the draft.