Darius Acuff Jr. is turning heads in his freshman season at Arkansas, making a strong case as one of the standout guards under John Calipari's tutelage. His offensive prowess has already placed him among the top prospects for the 2026 NBA Draft, with his SEC tournament performance catching attention in Memphis.
Arkansas clinched the SEC tournament title for the first time since 2000, defeating Vanderbilt 86-75. The Razorbacks showcased a balanced attack, with key contributions from Billy Richmond III and Trevon Brazile. Yet, it was Darius Acuff Jr. who truly shone in the spotlight.
Acuff Jr. delivered a stellar performance in the championship game, racking up 30 points, 3 rebounds, and 11 assists. Throughout the tournament, he averaged an impressive 30.3 points and 7.7 assists over three games. His unique combination of shot creation and playmaking sets him up as a potentially impactful offensive player in the NBA.
SEC Tournament Accolades
- Darius Acuff Jr.: MVP, All-Tournament Team 30.3 PPG | 7.7 APG | 50.0 3FG% (12-24)
- Trevon Brazile: All-Tournament Team
- 14.7 PPG | 10.0 RPG | 4-5 3FG in Championship Game
Acuff Jr. is emerging as a compelling option for the Grizzlies, particularly if they consider moving on from Ja Morant. The 2026 NBA Draft is stacked with talented guards, including Kingston Flemings and Mikel Brown Jr., but Acuff Jr. deserves serious consideration.
Before the SEC Championship game, Acuff Jr. was averaging 22.7 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 6.4 assists over 32 games. His shooting prowess is evident, with a 43.7% mark from three and a 60.5 TS%. Should the Grizzlies decide to trade Morant, Acuff Jr.'s ability to create shots and facilitate plays makes him an attractive option.
Potential and Concerns
Standing at 6-foot-3 and 190 pounds, Acuff Jr.'s size may raise some eyebrows for a high draft pick. Defensive struggles have been noted, partly due to an ankle injury that may be affecting his performance on that end.
Nevertheless, his offensive capabilities are undeniable. He's a versatile scorer with the strength and agility to navigate defenses and create separation.
Despite size and defensive concerns, Acuff Jr.'s scoring and playmaking abilities are expected to translate well to the NBA. Christopher Kline's mock draft for FanSided placed Acuff Jr. at 11th overall to Milwaukee, but his stock is rising, suggesting a top-10 selection is within reach. If the Grizzlies find themselves in position, Darius Acuff Jr. could be a dynamic successor to Ja Morant in Memphis.