AJ Dybantsa projected as No. 1 pick in 2026 NBA mock draft

13 articles · Updated · ESPN · Apr 28

The latest mock draft lists 71 early-entry players, the fewest in over 20 years, with Dybantsa leading a class including Darryn Peterson, Cameron Boozer, and Caleb Wilson.
Many prospects opted to return to college due to NIL incentives, thinning the draft depth beyond the lottery. The NBA Draft lottery will be held in Chicago on May 10, officially starting the predraft cycle.
Seven SEC players are projected in the first round, and the draft itself is scheduled for June 23-24. Team selections could shift as 16 of the top 35 prospects may still withdraw.

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