NBA Draft 2026: The 10 favorites before March Madness

Just before the start of March Madness, the landscape of the 2026 NBA Draft is beginning to take shape. Let's take a look at the players who, according to the experts at Hoopshype, are currently positioned to end up in the top 10 of the lottery in a few months. Of course, things may change after the NCAA tournament, but players like Darryn Peterson, AJ Dybantsa, Cameron Boozer, or Caleb Wilson are sure to be there.

1. Darryn Peterson (Kansas)

Kansas' shooting guard continues to hold the top spot in the consensus despite some doubts that have arisen in recent weeks. Peterson averages 19.7 points per game and has scored in double digits in every game this season. His main selling points are his ability to create shots and his range from the perimeter.

However, some evaluators have pointed out certain limitations in his freshman campaign, especially in decision-making and on the defensive end. It has also been noted that the offensive system at Kansas, under the direction of Bill Self, doesn't always favor perimeter players. Nevertheless, his scoring talent keeps his status as a top candidate for the number one spot intact.

2. AJ Dybantsa (BYU)

AJ Dybantsa is one of the players who has risen the most in recent weeks. The BYU forward-center has shown significant growth as a playmaker, which has been reflected in several recent games with four or more assists.

With averages of 24.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists, Dybantsa stands out for his combination of size, scoring ability, and creative potential. Although he still commits turnovers when attempting complicated passes, his evolution as a playmaker has bolstered his candidacy for the top pick in the draft.

3. Cameron Boozer (Duke)

Cameron Boozer has cemented himself as one of the most reliable players in the class. The Duke forward is putting together a dominant season with 22.5 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 assists per game.

His statistical production and consistency have been steady throughout the season, nearly reaching some impactful advanced historical records in college basketball. While some question his athletic explosiveness, many scouts believe he has the highest floor among the top draft prospects.

4. Caleb Wilson (North Carolina)

Before fracturing his left hand in February, Caleb Wilson was having an outstanding season at North Carolina. The power forward had surpassed 20 points in 17 games, setting a new record for a freshman in the program.

Wilson combines great athleticism with defensive intensity and a constant motor. Additionally, he has shown interesting flashes as a passer when defenses collapse on him. His recovery and performance post-injury will be crucial heading into the final stretch of the season.

5. Kingston Flemings (Houston)

Houston's point guard stands out as one of the best floor generals of this generation. Flemings averages 16.4 points and 5.2 assists while also maintaining an excellent assist-to-turnover ratio.

His ball-handling speed and ability to score from different levels of the offense make him a very complete point guard. Although his efficiency has dropped slightly in the last month, his ability to organize the game keeps him among the most valued prospects.

6. Mikel Brown Jr. (Louisville)

Mikel Brown Jr. is one of the most explosive scorers in the class, especially from long range. The Louisville point guard leads freshmen in three-pointers made from beyond seven meters.

However, his performance has been inconsistent during the season. Despite his offensive talent, some scouts have pointed out his inconsistency, limited defense, and room for improvement in the assist-turnover ratio. Nonetheless, his scoring ability keeps him in high draft positions.

7. Nate Ament (Tennessee)

Nate Ament has evolved during the season from being a spot-up shooter to a more aggressive player attacking the rim. His ball-handling skill and ability to draw fouls have allowed him to expand his offensive repertoire.

However, some franchises have expressed doubts about his consistency and defensive intensity. Despite this, his mix of size, ball-handling, and shooting makes him an intriguing project within the lottery.

8. Jayden Quaintance (Kentucky)

The Kentucky center is one of the most intriguing draft prospects due to his physical potential. With a wingspan of 2.26 meters, Quaintance has shown the ability to protect the rim and dominate near the basket.

However, his injury history and offensive limitations create uncertainty. Some evaluators believe he could return to college to further develop, especially considering his youth.

9. Keaton Wagler (Illinois)

Keaton Wagler has secured a place in the lottery thanks to his excellent outside shooting and basketball IQ. The Illinois shooting guard averages 18.3 points with over a 42% shooting from three-point range.

His main challenge is his limited athletic explosiveness, which hinders his ability to create separation in one-on-one situations. Nevertheless, his efficiency in pick-and-roll situations and court awareness offset some of those limitations.

10. Darius Acuff (Arkansas)

Darius Acuff has been one of the offensive sensations of the season at Arkansas. The point guard has put on spectacular performances, including 49 and 31-point games against top-level opponents.

Averaging 22 points and 6.2 assists, Acuff shines for his ball-handling creativity and ability to create for himself and his teammates. His balanced scoring, vision, and outside shooting have placed him among the most promising point guards of this generation.

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