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College basketball gave scouts extra evaluation opportunities this year thanks to unusually strong preseason matchups.
First impressions have already changed or shaped some scouting minds.
While there is still some uncertainty regarding how the top of the 2027 board will play out, there does seem to be a clear No. 1 overall favorite.
It's also worth noting how NIL has changed draft projections, with the second round now made up almost entirely of seniors and international players. Sophomores and juniors without strong first-round assurances are returning to school for the financial security of guaranteed college earnings.
1. Sacramento Kings: Tyran Stokes (Kansas)
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Position: SF/PF | Size:ย 6'8", 230 lbs | Age:ย 18
In a draft cycle lacking obvious star-level talent, rebuilding teams are counting on Tyran Stokes. His 6'8", 230-pound frame, creation flashes and shotmaking potential have popped for years. Questions about shooting consistency, decision-making and maturity have just kept scouts' confidence from rising to levels it's been at for recent No. 1 overall picks like AJ Dybantsa or Cooper Flagg.
Stokes ultimately passed his first big test with 27 points, eight rebounds and seven assists in a preseason game against Duke.
The early positive takeaways revolve around how he's been able to leverage his physicality and gravity. Strong yet fluid and shifty, Stokes clearly knows how to optimize his tools, put defenders in disadvantageous positions and draw fouls. His passing has also been highly encouraging, with Stokes showing the IQ to draw attention and see teammates, as well as the willingness to move the ball and act as a point-forward playmaker.
There is also more to be excited about than fear when it comes to Stokes' defense, based on his early movement and size for guarding wings and bigs.
It's reasonable to expect up-and-down shooting in the mid-to-long range. He does rely on contested shotmaking around the perimeter, and his high school percentages have never been super steady. Still, the self-creation signs are there, and he clearly has the skill level and confidence to connect on all of the various pull-ups and fallaways.
Unless Stokes' jumper really hits a wall, it's likely to be his professionalism, demeanor and impact on winning that determine whether scouts see the draft's surefire top pick.
2. Chicago Bulls: Jordan Smith Jr. (Arkansas)
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Position: PG/SG | Size:ย 6'2", 205 lbs | Age:ย 19
There may be debate around Jordan Smith Jr.'s NBA ceiling, but he's still going to be very popular during a draft cycle lacking obvious stars.
Scouts figure to find themselves able to bank on his defensive pressure, given his strength, quickness, length and intensity. Offensively, he's going to shine in transition with his speed and athleticism, and while he may go through ups and downs with his shooting consistency and decision-making, Smith has demonstrated self-creation in the mid-range, three-level shotmaking ability and enough playmaking to be used as a primary ball-handler an offense can run through at different points of a game.
Inconsistent three-point shooting and 6'2" size are the likely drawbacks that cause scouts to hesitate projecting Smith top three in a draft.
3. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Clippers): Caleb Holt (Arizona)
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Position: SG | Size:ย 6'5", 215 lbs | Age:ย 18
Caleb Holt's impact will be felt through versatility, which continues to expand as his creation and shooting keep improving.
Arizona figures to use him in a variety of ways from different spots, something NBA teams will value. Though Holt may not have one speciality skill, he'll find ways to produce with physical drives, spot-up threes, off-ball finishing, offensive rebounding, secondary playmaking and disruptive defense.
NBA teams may have trouble picturing upside, but Holt's floor should look high and fit will seem easy.
4. Utah Jazz: Bruce Branch III (BYU)
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Position: SF | Size:ย 6'8" | Age:ย 18
Bruce Branch III has been trending upward for the past year with his on-ball development/creation and three-level shotmaking. But it was his passing that popped more than anything else during BYU's preseason. Branch looked like a natural playmaker during a pair of exhibition games, setting the table for teammates using smart pacing off the dribble, vision, timing and skilled, one-handed deliveries.
With Compton Magic last year, Branch also shot 50.0 percent on catch-and-shoot threes and 46.0 percent on two-point jumpers.
He should have AJ Dybantsa's 2025-26 featured role, good for allowing Branch to showcase his well-rounded skill set.
5. New Orleans Pelicans (via Bucks): Colben Landrew (Connecticut)
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Position: SG/SF | Size:ย 6'6", 236 lbs | Age:ย 18
It looks like Colben Landrew could play a sizable role with a green light based on Connecticut's preseason.
He instantly stands out under the eye test with a 236-pound frame and rhythm behind his shooting stroke. There's also plenty of convincing high school tape of Landrew using his handle, strength and shotmaking versatility to score from three levels off drives and self-created jumpers.
He's set up to succeed with a point guard like Silas Demary Jr., teammates on the wing who'll draw top defenders and a coach willing to use freshmen.
6. Houston Rockets (via Nets): Stefan Joksimovic (Baskonia)
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Position: SG/SF | Size:ย 6'7" | Age:ย 17 | Slovenia
Stefan Joksimovic crept into the top-five discussion over the summer after MVP showings at Eurocamp and the U18 European Championships.
The jumbo scoring/playmaking wing has always been an enticing archetype, and Joksimovic stands out with 6'7" size, a creative process, a strong shotmaking record and vertical pop at the rim.
His minutes and on-ball reps have been limited so far with Baskonia this season. But he just made three threes against Real Madrid, and he's regularly delivered assists that highlight passing IQ.
He does struggle to explode and finish in traffic, and it's difficult to feel confident about the way he moves defensively. Joksimovic could become polarizing if he continues to struggle to get clean shots off and find consistency from three.
7. Houston Rockets (via Suns): Patrick Ngongba II (Duke)
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Position: C | Size:ย 6'11", 250 lbs | Age:ย 20
Patrick Ngongba II made strong first impressions during preseason, looking healthy, toned and more involved offensively.
His 28 points against Kansas were eye-opening, with Ngongba demonstrating a mix of post footwork, touch and shooting potential.
Adding a reliable three-ball would be a serious needle-mover for Ngongba, who flashed occasional range last season. His passing still separates him positionallyโhe can be a highly effective playmaking hub away from the basket. Despite limited creation to his game, offense can run through his IQ and knack for facilitating and hitting teammates in high-percentage spots.
Avoiding injuries, particularly to his feet/legs, will be key and help ease concerns over Ngongba's durability and history come draft time.
8. Indiana Pacers: Quentin Coleman (Illinois)
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Position: PG/SG | Size:ย 6'4", 180 lbs | Age:ย 18
After a strong senior season, spring and summer showing with USA Basketball at the AmeriCup, Quentin Coleman carried the momentum into the preseason.
The hype continues to build around the growth of Coleman's game, which includes a well-rounded mix of shotmaking, creativity, explosive rim plays and a high motor.
He'll become more in demand by NBA scouts if he can demonstrate lead-guard skills as a ball-handler and playmaker, rather than project as a 180-pound combo guard who leans toward the 2.
Regardless, Coleman looks poised for a breakout year on a top team, offering an appealing blend of shooting, self-creation, athleticism and hustle plays.
9. Brooklyn Nets (via Knicks): JJ Andrews (Arkansas)
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Position: SF | Size:ย 6'6", 225 lbs | Age:ย 18
JJ Andrews is going to give Arkansas physical two-point scoring, capable three-point shooting and strong tools for defending various archetypes.
Scouts will admire his 225-pound frame and developing perimeter skill, a combination that creates inside-out versatility and the ability to play/guard both forward positions.
Andrews should be an efficient, impact player in a presumed supporting role, while scouts should see his age and remain optimistic/patient over his on-ball development.
10. Atlanta Hawks (via Pelicans): Alijah Arenas (USC)
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Position: SG | Size:ย 6'6", 199 lbs | Age:ย 19
There's no doubting Alijah Arenas' scoring prowess, which is fueled by positional size, ball-handling for creation and confident shotmaking. His efficiency will determine whether scouts see a future top option, instant-offense specialist or a ball-stopping, difficult isolation fit.
Scouts have sounded willing to give him a pass for last year's 34.1 field-goal percentage, which came after a late start to the season following a meniscus tear.
Arenas looked fluid and confident during preseason, when he showed glimpses of his footwork and improvisation working one-on-one.
Assuming his jumper falls at a better clip than last year, Arenas should become a far more efficient scorer by improving his decision-making, particularly around the basket, where he graded as one of the worst finishers in the country.
11. Orlando Magic: Miikka Muurinen (Arkansas)
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Position: PF/C | Size:ย 7'0", 215 lbs | Age:ย 19 | Finland
Miikka Muurinen is going to generate highlights and excitement with explosive finishing and shotmaking for a 7-footer. He's likely to also stir up conversation around his maturity and decision-making, which have been questioned by both former coaches overseas and scouts.
Muurinen clearly possesses NBA physical talent and a coveted skill set for the position. Even if his three-point percentage underwhelms, he still has an easy-to-buy stroke and some ability to separate into pull-ups and fallaways.
Picking the right spots to attack offensively and avoiding emotional decision-making will be Muurinen's lottery ticket.
12. Miami Heat: Braylon Mullins (Connecticut)
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Position: SG | Size:ย 6'6", 198 lbs | Age:ย 20
A regular name in 2026 first-round conversations, Braylon Mullins should be right back in the mix with a bigger role and easier path toward the 2027 lottery.
The historic shot he hit to beat Duke in the NCAA tournament highlighted his signature shooting range and shotmaking confidence. He was one of the most potent off-ball scoring freshmen, but he also possesses functional athletic ability for finishing and defending.
He should have a chance to be used in more ball-screen situations and expand his self-creation as a sophomore.
13. Memphis Grizzlies (via Timberwolves): Amari Allen (Alabama)
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Position: SG/SF | Size:ย 6'6", 205 lbs | Age:ย 20
Amari Allen earned NBA interest last year with his ball-screen play, three-point shooting and 3.6 assists per game, a combination that highlights versatility scouts covet from a wing.
Between the 6'5" barefoot measurements, the self-creation limitations and inefficient results operating as a spot-up scorer, he just wasn't convincing enough during a deep 2026 draft.
Expected to become a focal point of Alabama's 2027 offense, Allen should be able to show more on-ball growth while building his shotmaking and decision-making reps. He's already an appealing 2-guard/wing prospect with how he gets downhill, hits threes and moves the ball.
14. Golden State Warriors: Ivan Kharchenkov (Arizona)
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Position: SG/SF | Size:ย 6'7", 220 lbs | Age:ย 19 | Russia/Germany
Ivan Kharchenkov's versatility and defensive toughness should shine in a bigger role.
Even with the low three-point volume, he's a very likable prospect as a 6'7", 220-pound wing who can attack, handle and pass, finish plays, defend and make mid-range shots.
Kharchenkov has the chance to come off as a plug-and-play role player for NBA teams, especially if he's able to show improved shooting range.
15. Charlotte Hornets: Obinna Ekezie Jr. (Louisville)
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Position: C | Size:ย 7'2", 240 lbs | Age:ย 18 | Nigeria
With Obinna Ekezie Jr. standing 7'2" with a 7'5" wingspan, any signs of outlier shooting or movement skills will generate NBA buzz.
His four three-pointers and five blocks in preseason against Kansas were eye-opening. Producing future lines similar to that one will undoubtedly result in Ekezie becoming one of the class' most coveted bigs.
Between the Players Era field in Las Vegas and Texas, Michigan and Kentucky on Louisville's non-conference schedule, Ekezie will have a lot of early chances to sell his NBA tools and offensive developmental progress.
16. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Nuggets): Abdou Toure (Arkansas)
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Position: SG/SF | Size:ย 6'5", 200 lbs | Age:ย 18 | Guinea/USA
Abdou Toure's identity for Arkansas will revolve around his athleticism and motor for play-finishing and defense.
Continuing to show signs of improving ball-handling and shotmaking should help convince scouts to get in early on Toure.
It's easy to see Toure thriving in a two-way energizer role, but for a 6'5" guard, he'll become more of a return-to-school candidate if his creation and three-point shooting appear too limited.
17. San Antonio Spurs (via Hawks): Davis Fogle (Gonzaga)
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Position: SF | Size:ย 6'7", 200 lbs | Age:ย 20
Off the bench, Davis Fogle flashed a well-rounded mix of on-ball creation, off-ball finishing, high-IQ passing, shotmaking potential and defensive playmaking.
With his scoring versatility and athleticism drawing attention in just 16.7 minutes per game, scouts will start to take Fogle seriously if he's able to replicate last year's production rates and efficiency in a larger role.
18. Los Angeles Clippers (via Raptors): Anthony Thompson (Ohio State)
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Position: SF/PF | Size:ย 6'9", 215 lbs | Age:ย 18
There is a lot of preseason interest around Anthony Thompson with scouts looking to identify the higher-upside freshmen in this class.
At 6'9", he shot over 38.0 percent from three for both Western Reserve Academy and Indiana Elite. Ohio State will likely use him as a floor spacer who can pick and pop or roll, though he's flashed enough post skill and closeout attacking to offer secondary creation.
Between Thompson's shooting and face-up play, post scoring and 7'3" wingspan for finishing and defense, he figures to become one of the more popular freshmen among scouts, even if his production fluctuates. Thompson won't turn 19 until after Summer League.
19. Washington Wizards: Motiejus Krivas (Arizona)
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Position: C | Size:ย 7'2", 260 lbs | Age:ย 21 | Lithuania
Motiejus Krivas would have gone in the first round in 2026, but he's now in position to become college basketball's most impactful big and a 2027 lottery pick.
NBA teams continue to show a high level of interest in massive defensive centers like Donovan Clingan, Zach Edey and Aday Mara. Krivas is next in line at 7'2", 260 pounds, a frame he uses to help shrink the rim he's protecting.
Though he won't be for everyone, teams looking for an immediate paint presence figure to view him as a long-term anchor.
20. Toronto Raptors (via Thunder): Na'jai Hines (Connecticut)
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Position: C | Size:ย 6'11", 278 lbs | Age:ย 19
On a per-minute basis, no other player combined for better shot-blocking and offensive rebounding rates than Na'jai Hines.
Despite lacking any real creation or scoring skills beyond finishing and post-ups, his paint presence and defense are strong enough for scouts to look past the limited offensive versatility. He appeared to be in good shape and lighter on his feet during Connecticut's preseason, which could lead to more transition and easy baskets.
21. Phoenix Suns (via Cavaliers): Thomas Haugh (Florida)
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Position: SF/PF | Size:ย 6'9", 215 lbs | Age:ย 23
For Thomas Haugh, a big NIL offer and chance to win a second national championship apparently outweighed the potential to go in the top 20 in 2026.
Even if he looks like the same player, lottery teams figure to remain interested in a 6'9" combo forward who's productive from three, explosive above the rim and brings sound passing IQ. Teams will value his easy fit and archetype over the potential upside.
Age figures to become a talking point, considering he'll turn 24 years old right after the 2027 draft. Still, we just saw the Golden State Warriors take Yaxel Lendeborg No. 11 after Michigan's title, and the certainty/translatability of Haugh's game could lead to similar viewpoints from NBA teams.
22. Charlotte Hornets (via Mavericks): Brandon McCoy Jr. (Michigan)
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Position: PG/SG | Size:ย 6'5", 190 lbs | Age:ย 18
A torn ACL will cost Brandon McCoy Jr. his entire freshman season. It's going to create a difficult decision around May and June, because there's sure to be NBA interest in him, even if he never plays or works out.
Scouts have already had numerous opportunities over the years to scout and track McCoy, a disruptive defender, offensive playmaker and improving shooter. Missing the year may affect his draft-stock ceiling, but he could still look like an attractive buy-low candidate in the first round.
23. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Spurs): Jason Crowe Jr. (Missouri)
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Position: SG | Size:ย 6'4", 190 lbs | Age:ย 18
Conversation around Jason Crowe Jr. will revolve around the translatability of his scoring and whether there's everyday playmaking potential to unlock.
The ability to create shots, make tough ones, shoot with range and take over games creates a microwave mode for Crowe. Shotmaking, separation tactics and touch distinguish Crowe from the class' other scoring guards.
NBA teams will just be asking how well he'll be able to execute his particular shot diet at 6'4", 190 poundsโor if he can switch to a point guard role and organize team offense.
24. Memphis Grizzlies (via Lakers): Deron Rippey Jr. (Duke)
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Position: PG | Size:ย 6'3", 185 lbs | Age:ย 19
Even with Caleb Foster, Cayden Boozer and John Blackwell, coach Jon Scheyer should find regular minutes for Deron Rippey Jr.
The freshman moves differently, handling the ball in the open floor, navigating through half-court defenses and sliding his feet defensively. Rippey possesses the type of advantage-creating quickness and burst NBA teams value. And he's demonstrated an admirable balance between scoring and playmaking.
Rippey is listed at 6'3" 185 pounds, similar to 2026 top-10 picks Darius Acuff Jr. and Kingston Flemings. Given his defensive toughness, questions about size shouldn't mean much if he's able to show continued progress with his shooting and decision-making.
25. Portland Trail Blazers: Caleb Gaskins (Miami)
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Position: SF/PF | Size:ย 6'8", 219 lbs | Age:ย 18
Caleb Gaskins should generate NBA interest with the ability to stretch the floor as a 4, operate as a 6'8", face-up wing and defend both forward positions.
Malik Reneau remaining eligible would make it tougher to build a strong one-and-done case, but the eye test should still detect an NBA prospect based on Gaskins' physical tools, shooting stroke and overall flashes of inside-out scoring versatility.
26. Detroit Pistons: Cole Cloer (Alabama)
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Position: SF | Size:ย 6'8", 205 lbs | Age:ย 20
Cole Cloer should catch scouts' attention with an NBA-friendly mix of 6'8" wing size, shooting skills and passing IQ.
The eye test and track record suggest he's ready to immediately give Alabama a reliable three-point weapon. But he'll start to generate NBA buzz with more layered scoring fueled by clever moves, improvisation and athletic finishes.
27. Boston Celtics: Hugo Yimga-Moukouri (Nanterre 92)
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Position: SF | Size:ย 6'8" | Age:ย 18 | France
Still 18 until after the draft, Hugo Yimga-Moukouri is producing in France's LNB Pro A for the second season. He's being used similarly compared to last year, operating as a spot-up scorer who poses a threat with his three-point stroke, slashing and finishing tools.
He's going to draw scouts to Nanterre's games regularly with the combination of 6'8" size and shotmaking that screams three-and-D potential. Age will buy him time with scouts who'll want to see more on-ball creation or passing.
28. Brooklyn Nets (via Rockets): Stefan Vaaks (Illinois)
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Position: SG/SF | Size:ย 6'7", 215 lbs | Age:ย 21 | Estonia
After checking a coveted mix of boxes last year with 6'7" size, 91 threes and 3.2 assists, Stefan Vaaks should start the year on watch lists at Illinois.
Even with glaring athletic issues that limit his rim pressure and defense, Vaaks' shotmaking and passing are very convincing and fitting for an NBA connector role.
29. Philadelphia 76ers: Dash Daniels (SE Melbourne)
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Position: PG/SG | Size:ย 6'5" | Age:ย 18 | Australia
Dash Daniels has looked far more confident and decisive this year. Through 11 games, he already has more threes and made floaters than he converted all season.
His shooting and touch are at a different level, important signs of a guard who lacks the handle and athleticism to blow by defenders or explode around the rim.
Daniels still looks more like a combo 2-guard than a lead playmaker. But if the improved shooting looks legitimate, he'll look more like a versatile, attractive guard prospect who can score in ball-screen situations, play off the ball and defend both backcourt positions.
30. Memphis Grizzlies: David Mirkovic (Illinois)
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Position: PF | Size:ย 6'9", 250 lbs | Age:ย 20 | Montenegro
David Mirkovic's versatility is an obvious draw for NBA teams. At 6'9", 250 pounds, he proved to be an effective ball-screen playmaker with a handle and passing skill.
He made 57 threes and shot 39.6 percent on pick-and-pops, showing touch elsewhere on floaters/hooks (48.0 percent) and free throws (75.7 percent). And he brought down 8.0 rebounds per game using a strong frame and instincts.
Still, a total of two dunk attempts and low defensive playmaking rates highlight worrisome athletic limitations. And offseason foot surgery creates some uncertainty in terms of his readiness.
31. Utah Jazz (via Nuggets): Tounde Yessoufou (St. John's)
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Position: SG/SF | Size:ย 6'5", 220 lbs | Age:ย 20 | Benin
NBA teams will love Tounde Yessoufou's physical tools, athleticism and motor for transition offense, finishing and defense. Because he totaled more turnovers than assists, there will be extra pressure on his shooting and ability to make threes with more consistency.
At St. John's with a stacked roster and a seasoned playmaker in Quinn Ellis, Yessoufou finds himself in a favorable situation to see more high-percentage looks off the ball.
32. Sacramento Kings (via Hornets): Luigi Suigo (Villanova)
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Position: C | Size:ย 7'3", 289 lbs | Age:ย 19 | Italy
NBA teams were giving Luigi Suigo first-round looks a few months ago, particularly after he measured nearly 7'3" barefoot with a 9'6" reach.
He should be a focal point this year at Villanova with his combination of overwhelming size around the rim and developing skill. Last year with Mega, he registered a wild 15.0 offensive rebounding percentage and even flashed some shooting range with 18 made threes.
How well he's able to defend ball screens and opponents in space figures to play a key role in Suigo's draft stock, although he should remain a regular in the first-round discussion regardless.
33. Philadelphia 76ers (via Warriors): Cheickh Niang (Trento)
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Position: SG | Size:ย 6'5" | Age:ย 18 | Italy
Cheickh Niang has stood out early by producing efficiently off his explosiveness, shiftiness and improving shotmaking.
Though still reliant on speed and bounce, he's flashed real promise creating with his handle, which is weaponized even more by how quickly he moves.
Niang remains raw at 18 years old, but his skill level is starting to show signs of catching up to his athleticism.
34. Portland Trail Blazers (via Timberwolves): Malachi Moreno (Kentucky)
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Position: C | Size:ย 7'0", 250 lbs | Age:ย 20
A potential late first-rounder last June, Malachi Moreno returned to be Kentucky's defensive anchor and a more frequently used post player and playmaking hub.
His tools and instincts are selling points. In a more involved offensive role, showing improved skill level and touch could help ease concerns around whether he will be useful enough offensively at the next level. He shot below 50.0 percent on post-ups, pick-and-rolls and layups.
35. Washington Wizards (via Heat): Amare Bynum (Ohio State)
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Position: PF | Size:ย 6'8", 245 lbs | Age:ย 19
Amare Bynum should start the season on breakout watch lists after his flashes of athletic finishing and three-point shooting.
He'll enter the draft discussion if he becomes more consistent from deep and a bigger threat to make plays off the bounce.
36. Utah Jazz (via Magic): Jordan Scott (Michigan State)
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Position: SF | Size:ย 6'8", 200 lbs | Age:ย 19
Although Jordan Scott averaged just 5.8 points last year, his shooting and defensive tools still stood out in a reduced role. More shots and confidence could shine light on three-and-D potential, plus the driving and finishing ability for off-ball scoring.
37. Charlotte Hornets (via Pelicans): Nigel James Jr. (Marquette)
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Position: PG | Size:ย 6'0", 185 lbs | Age:ย 20
Nigel James will have to battle size questions, but with his combination of strength and explosion, another jump in production and shooting could convince scouts to see an outlier.
He's already proven to be an advanced driver and finisher with true point-guard playmaking instincts. Raising that 1.3 made threes per game number could put him near 20-point-per-game territory while making him easier for scouts to bet on.
38. New York Knicks: Trey McKenney (Michigan)
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Position: SF | Size:ย 6'4", 220 lbs | Age:ย 20
With Michigan losing three lottery picks, Trey McKenney should have the opportunities and freedom to emerge as the team's No. 1 option.
He's looked like a natural scorer since high school, combining a strong 220-pound frame with perimeter creation and shotmaking ability. His 39.1 percent shooting from three and 89.5 percent mark at the free-throw line underscore that scoring touch.
No signs of playmaking at either end (0.9 assists, 0.4 steals) suggest McKenney may be more of a specialist at the NBA level. But his positional strength and strong shooting indicators should be enough to draw NBA interest.
39. New Orleans Pelicans (via Pacers): Jeremy Fears Jr. (Michigan State)
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Position: PG | Size:ย 6'2", 190 lbs | Age:ย 21
National Player of the Year feels within reach for Jeremy Fears Jr. after he averaged 15.2 points and registered the highest assist percentage on NCAA record.
Aside from demonstrating special playmaking feel, he also shot 42.0 percent on pull-up jumpers, a big jump from 26.4.
Still, for a 6'2" guard and limited athlete who struggles to generate rim pressure and finish, NBA teams will need to see a bigger jump with his three-point shooting.
40. Washington Wizards (via Suns): Alvaro Folgueiras (Louisville)
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Position: PF | Size:ย 6'10", 230 lbs | Age:ย 21
More consistency from Alvaro Folgueiras should help illuminate the type of versatility scouts are often drawn to. At 6'10", he just made 36 threes, shot 71.4 percent at the rim and registered a 20.7 assist percentage.
The combination of finishing, shooting and passing for a power forward should attract scouts' attention, particularly if Louisville can emerge as a top-10 team throughout the season.
41. Washington Wizards (via Nets): Alex Condon (Florida)
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Position: C | Size:ย 6'11", 236 lbs | Age:ย 22
Alex Condon has remained on NBA radars for the past two years with his athletic play-finishing, passing and skill flashes.
A non-shooting Condon should still draw second-round interest for an NBA team that values his ability to rack up 48 dunks and average 3.6 assists. He just becomes far more interesting with a three-point shot, something he's only teased scouts about potentially having.
42. Milwaukee Bucks: John Blackwell (Duke)
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Position: SG | Size:ย 6'5", 205 lbs | Age:ย 21
After averaging 19.1 points at Wisconsin, John Blackwell is now a good candidate to become the top option and scoring lead for a national title contender.
He's an easy fit with his balanced mix of creation and off-ball shotmaking. Blackwell's lack of athleticism around the rim and playmaking will just prevent the NBA buzz from matching his college impact.
43. Indiana Pacers (via Jazz): Milan Momcilovic (Kentucky)
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Position: SF | Size:ย 6'9", 220 lbs | Age:ย 22
Coming off one of the top three-point shooting seasons in history in terms of accuracy (48.7 percent) and volume (7.5 3PTA), Milan Momcilovic will again be auditioning for an NBA specialist role.
At 6'9", he shot over 45.0 percent from deep in the three major shooting departments: stationary catch-and-shoot threes, pull-up threes and movement threes off screens.
He'll get drafted to a team that values filling a need with a low-cost, sure thing over searching for upside or versatility.
44. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Bulls): Kayden Mingo (Baylor)
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Position: PG | Size:ย 6'1", 195 lbs | Age:ย 19
Kayden Mingo may become a new priority on scouts' watch lists after he combined for 55 points against Florida and Illinois during preseason.
Though it's not a great time to be a small guard in the NBA draft discussion, he does compensate with a 195-pound frame and excellent floater touch.
Baylor's offense will run through his creativity that's fueled by downhill driving, shiftiness and improvisation. A 27.2 assist rate and 3.8 steal percentage highlight two-way playmaking to complement the scoring, though becoming a coveted 2027 prospect will still require Mingo to make a significant jump as a shooter.
45. Utah Jazz (via Clippers): Rueben Chinyelu (Florida)
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Position: C | Size:ย 6'10", 265 lbs | Age:ย 23
Rueben Chinyelu learned how to use every inch of size and length, finishing last year as the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year and the nation's second-leading offensive rebounder.
He also improved his post game and free throws.
While Chinyelu's offensive limitations are well-documented, his tools, production and impact suggest it's worth picturing a plug-and-play finisher and shot-blocking presence.
46. Sacramento Kings: Billy Richmond III (Arkansas)
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Position: SF | Size:ย 6'7", 205 lbs | Age:ย 20
Billy Richmond III is going to continue making positive plays off his athleticism, defense and motor.
Drawing serious NBA interest will mean hitting more threesโor convincing scouts that he can be a non-shooting outlier who adds enough value as a transition scorer, connective piece and defensive disruptor.
47. Atlanta Hawks: Bastien Grasshoff (Le Mans)
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Position: SG/SF | Size:ย 6'6" | Age:ย 19
A productive start should have eyes shifting toward Bastien Grasshoff, a 6'6" guard/wing who's clever in pick-and-rolls and threatening around the perimeter. His positional size, craftiness and shotmaking flashes create appealing versatility, though inevitable concerns over his athleticism and defensive outlook will put extra pressure on Grasshoff's three-point shooting.
48. New York Knicks (via Wizards): Marc-Owen Fozdo Dada (ASVEL)
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Position: PG | Size:ย 6'3" | Age:ย 19
Marc-Owen Fozdo Dada is entering the draft conversation with tough baskets and defense in LNB Pro A and EuroLeague.
Quick and strong/physical, he's at his best getting downhill, putting pressure on the rim or creating playmaking chances.
Fozdo Dada needs to improve his shooting, but he's capable, and he'll still impact games elsewhere with breakdown ability and defensive activity.
49. Toronto Raptors: Kellen Thames (Saint Louis)
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Position: SF | Size:ย 6'6", 210 lbs | Age:ย 23
Despite Kellen Thames never averaging 20 minutes or 10 points in any of his four seasons at Saint Louis, an outstanding physical and analytical profile could help him earn NBA looks.
Of the 15 players last year with an offensive box plus-minus over 5.0 and a DBPM over 4.0, one was Thames, one was Tyler Tanner and 12 were 2026 first-rounders.
Any signs of improved shooting will help, but NBA teams can start to picture an outlier who'll impact games with rim pressure, passing and defense.
50. San Antonio Spurs: Collin Chandler (BYU)
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Position: SG | Size:ย 6'6", 205 lbs | Age:ย 22
Now at BYU, Collin Chandler should have a higher-usage role that highlights his athleticism and shotmaking while providing more ball-screen opportunities to create.
He's still not likely to sell teams on much creation, but Chandler can be potent in the open floor and behind the arc, a combination that could make him a potential bench-spark prospect for the next level.
51. Milwaukee Bucks (via Mavericks): Nolan Winter (Wisconsin)
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Position: C | Size:ย 7'0", 235 lbs | Age:ย 20
NBA teams should picture a fit for Nolan Winter, who's 7'0" and shot 71.0 percent on rolls and 41.0 percent on pick-and-pops. He hit over 30 threes in consecutive years while demonstrating enough fluidity off the dribble to attack closeouts and after fake dribble handoffs.
Winter won't offer overwhelming rim protection, and he's had a tendency to fade or remain quiet. But he clearly has the size and skill set for a stretch 4/5 and screen-and-score big.
52. Chicago Bulls (via Cavaliers): Pryce Sandfort (Nebraska)
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Position: SF | Size:ย 6'7", 215 lbs | Age:ย 22
With NIL bringing back underclassmen and leading to senior-heavy second rounds, Pryce Sandfort has become a name for scouts to track. He just averaged 18.1 points and finished third in the nation in three-pointers made.
Sandfort's shooting profile was elite and highlighted by a 45.0 percent mark on 80 off screen/movement threes. He should surface as a value pick with 6'7" size and shooting specialist potential.
53. New York Knicks (via Thunder): Amani Hansberry (Virginia Tech)
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Position: PF | Size:ย 6'8", 240 lbs | Age:ย 22
NBA scouts could start to picture Amani Hansberry's game translating now that he's become a legitimate shooting threat, a plus-passer and solid interior finishing/rebounding presence.
54. Brooklyn Nets (via Lakers): Paulius Murauskas (Arizona State)
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Position: PF | Size:ย 6'8", 235 lbs | Age:ย 22 | Lithuania
Paulius Murauskas put up 18.4 points per game last year, scoring with a balanced mix of post-ups, self-creation and off-ball play as a shotmaker and cutter. At 6'8", his scoring versatility continues to sharpen and expand, while his touch on floaters and free throws (84.0 percent) suggests he can continue to improve as a shooter.
55. Portland Trail Blazers: Arrinten Page (Providence)
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Position: C | Size:ย 6'11", 245 lbs | Age:ย 21
Arrinten Page should become worth looking into with enough flashes and scoring production off pick-and-pops, post-ups, finishes and passing opportunities.
More consistency at Providence should help make Page feel more convincing as an NBA prospect.
56. Phoenix Suns (via Celtics): Finley Bizjack (West Virginia)
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Position: SG | Size:ย 6'4", 190 lbs | Age:ย 21
There should be a regular attendance of scouts at West Virginia with Miles Sadler and Finley Bizjack in the backcourt. Bizjack's potential NBA appeal stems from his shotmaking versatility, scoring instincts and ability to generate offense from on and off the ball. His shooting touch, footwork and confidence give him a chance to carve out a role as a perimeter scoring specialist, though questions remain about his ability to consistently generate separation and finish against NBA size and athleticism.
57. Detroit Pistons: Somto Cyril (Miami)
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Position: C | Size:ย 6'11", 260 lbs | Age:ย 21
Powerful at 260 pounds with a 7'7" wingspan and athletic leaping ability, Somto Cyril led the nation in dunks while registering a 10.6 block percentage. NBA teams should see a two-way weapon around the basket. He just had a turnover percentage three times his assist rate, and a career 54.1 free-throw percentage suggests it may be difficult to play him full-time minutes.
58. Philadelphia 76ers: Money Williams (Boston College)
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Position: PG | Size:ย 6'4", 206 lbs | Age:ย 21
After averaging 20.6 points and 4.7 assists for Montana, Money Williams will have a chance to validate that production in the ACC. Limited athleticism and shooting range, plus 4.1 turnovers per game, kept any draft buzz from building around Williams last year. Scouts could still start to take Williams seriously if the creation and scoring craft translate this season against a stronger strength of schedule.
59. Miami Heat (via Rockets): Bukky Oboye (Auburn)
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Position: C | Size:ย 7'1", 230 lbs | Age:ย 21
Bukky Oboye's 7'1" size and mobility for play-finishing and shot-blocking should attract more scouts' attention at Auburn. He just has to find a way to stay on the floor and dramatically reduce his 7.8 fouls per 40 minutes. In a limited role at Santa Clara, he still managed 58 dunks while shooting 77.3 percent inside the arc.
60. Charlotte Hornets (via Grizzlies): Andrej Stojakovic (Illinois)
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Position: SF | Size:ย 6'7", 205 lbs | Age:ย 22 | Greece/Serbia
Andrej Stojakovic will need to show signs of improved shooting, but he was far more efficient last year creating and executing inside the arc. He's got the NBA wing size, scoring instincts and some impressive self-creation skill. A more reliable three-point shot should unlock three-level scoring that will make Stojakovic a more believable NBA prospect.
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