Home UFC Aggregate 2026 NBA Mock Draft 1.0: First look at Darryn Peterson, AJ...

Aggregate 2026 NBA Mock Draft 1.0: First look at Darryn Peterson, AJ Dybantsa, more


Here is the first aggregate mock draft for 2026, compiled from only eight of the usual 10 mock drafts available to create a composite ranking. At this early stage, opinions are highly conflicting, making it challenging to reach a consensus. Consequently, there are significant differences in player evaluations once we move beyond the Top 20 prospects.

Currently, as we evaluate prospects, it’s important to note that some freshmen and transfers haven’t even arrived on campus yet. This year, we’re also seeing an influx of European talent due to the NIL opportunities. With colleges implementing salary caps, many international players choose college basketball over staying in European leagues where they would compete for minutes against seasoned veterans fighting to support their families.

An explanation for HoopsHype’s Draft Predictor from colleague Alberto de Roa, who contributed research to this story, can be found here

NOTE: These rankings reflect the composite score to get a feel for the overall consensus, not our own opinion.

Darryn Peterson – adidas Eurocamp

Best rank: 1 / Worst rank: 2

6-5 | 195 lbs | 6-10 WS | Freshman

Kansas picked up a gem in this prototypical sized jumbo guard that can play one through three and has the mature vibe of a 30-year-old in a teenager body. Peterson can score from anywhere on the floor and has the potential to be a franchise player. He’s a natural scorer who can hit tough pull-up shots and play as a lead guard or a cutter off the ball. He can probably defend every position except centers once he fully bulks up in his 20s. He’s got the body to handle bigger wings and athleticism to hang with quicker guards. Some scouts think he might just be better than the 2025 NBA Draft’s No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg.

Jonae McCloud-USA Basketball

Best rank: 1 / Worst rank: 3

6-9 | 210 lbs | 7-0 WS | Freshman

Dybantsa has crazy defensive skills, hops like you wouldn’t believe, and can play both the three and four positions. Dybantsa is a block-hunter and loves to create turnovers, plus he speeds up the court for some highlight finishes. He has decent handles to keep defenders on their toes, but still needs to work on his half-court game a bit.

Jonae McCloud-USA Basketball

Best rank: 1 / Worst rank: 3

6-9 | 235 lbs | 7-1 WS | Freshman

The Son of Carlos Boozer and twin brother of Cayden Boozer is a power forward for Duke who plays like a beast. He’s got elite rebounding skills, soft hands, and great footwork, and throws outlet passes that kind of remind you of Kevin Love. Boozer can jump high for putbacks and has a nice touch up to 17 feet, which opens up his pick-and-pop game. He’s polished, productive, and unselfish, and he’s looking like someone who can make an instant impact in the frontcourt as a natural four that can be a switch big.

Nate Ament – Under Armour Elite 24

Best rank: 4 / Worst rank: 7

6-10 | 185 lbs | 7-0 WS | Freshman

This 6-10, 185-pound freshman from Tennessee is a bit of a wild card. He’s got the skill set of a forward who can shoot, and he reminds you of Kevin Furant-Brandon Ingram with his pull-up ability. The catch? He tends to fade when the game gets physical, and he can become so passive that he disappears in the background. If he bulks up and stays consistent, his shooting and ball-handling could push him to the top; if not, he might just be a streaky scorer. He has the lowest floor out of the Top 4 but someone could argue he has the second highest ceiling (potential wise behind Peterson) in this class if it all hits.

Pamela Smith-Imagn Images

Best rank: 5 / Worst rank: 14

6-3 | 173 lbs | 6-6 WS | Freshman

Brown is a dynamic player who can create space to score and is considered the top pure point guard in the draft, even with his score-first mentality. He knows how to manipulate defenses in pick-and-roll situations but needs to sharpen his decision-making and add some muscle for the NBA. Brown is more of a scoring guard like Coby White than a floor general. If he polishes his game, he could be a strong starter or a great spark off the bench.

University of Kentucky

Best rank: 4 / Worst rank: 13

6-10 | 225 lbs | 7-5 WS | Sophomore

The Kentucky sophomore plays like he’s a center who’s still working on becoming a forward. He’s an explosive target for lobs, has a huge reach, and might be the most versatile big in this class. He’s great at blocking shots and can hang with guards on the perimeter, but his offense still needs some work beyond easy dunks and put-backs. With even slight improvements, he could really shine as a two-way starter. The biggest question for him to answer this year is if he is a four or an undersized five.

Phil Walter/Getty Images

Best rank: 5 / Worst rank: 18

6-8 | 210 lbs | 6-11 WS | 2007

Heralded as the future face of Mexican basketball (playing for the NZ Breakers as a NBL Next Stars), Lopez has a bit of everything, a decent handle, okay jumper, and good size, but he doesn’t have one elite skill that stands out, leading some to label him as a “Georges Niang with extra length.” If he can develop a stronger dribble or become a better catch-and-shoot player, he could find real value in the league; if not, he might end up being a solid bench role player.

Pamela Smith-Imagn Images

Best rank: 5 / Worst rank: 16

6-10 | 233 lbs | 7-4 WS | Freshman

Projects as an anchor for Houston due to his stunning 7-3 wingspan and some impressive footwork for a big guy. He shows off his grab-and-go skills and has soft touch around the basket. Cenac can switch easily between different defensive schemes, but he still has some raw facets to his game, especially with his footwork and ball handling. With more playtime, he could turn into a rim-runner and shot-blocking specialist.

Pamela Smith-Imagn Images

Best rank: 6 / Worst rank: NR

6-9 | 205 lbs | 7-0 WS | Freshman

The North Carolina freshman has a lot going for him with his fluid movement, flashes of impressive skills, and instincts on defense. Wilson’s motor isn’t revving all the time but when he’s unleashed, he’s a freak of nature. However, he hasn’t managed to put it all together consistently yet, and his shooting can be hit or miss. Still, there’s clear potential here for him to become a modern two-way forward if he can amp up his motor and skills.

Nike

Best rank: 4 / Worst rank: NR

6-5 | 210 lbs | 6-11 WS | Freshman

A 6-6, 210-pound freshman from Baylor, Yessoufou is a powerful athlete who’s looked ready for college since he arrived. He’s going to be a player to watch, capable of guarding multiple positions and attacking the rim aggressively. Yessoufou will remind people of Anthony Edwards at first glance, however we don’t think he is in the same stratosphere as Ant. If he can develop a reliable catch-and-shoot game, he might become a fantastic 3-and-D starter or an explosive energy guy off the bench.

Hans Lucas/AFP via Getty Images)

Best rank: 9 / Worst rank: NR

6-6 | 190 lbs | 6-10 WS | 2007

At 6-6, this guard from Melbourne United can score from everywhere with ease, and has the same killer defensive instincts his older brother, Dyson Daniels, is known for. His smooth release makes him deadly against closeouts, and he has a knack for creating plays. While he’s competitive on defense and has a solid build, he’s got average recovery speed. Daniels could be a guard, however, he seems to be more of a swingman and will be able to guard one through four when he bulks up. He could fit well as a late-lottery player who can step in and shoot, with the potential to become a versatile two-way starter.

Patrick Breen / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Best rank: 4 / Worst rank: 18

6-8 | 235 lbs | 6-11 WS | Freshman

Peat is a frontcourt player who could be a gritty, undersized switch big similar to Isaiah Stewart. With some quick footwork, he knows how to take advantage of mismatches in the post, and his ability to stretch the floor keeps defenses guessing. If he can work on his lateral quickness and timing on rim protection, he could really shine as a small-ball five.

Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images

Best rank: 11 / Worst rank: NR

6-7 | 170 lbs | 6-10 WS | Sophomore

Evans withdrew from the 2025 NBA Draft, where he was climbing up boards as a potential first round pick, to return for his sophomore year at Duke. He’s a wiry volume three-point shooter with a quick release that makes opposing defenses sweat, especially with his ability to shoot from way beyond the NBA three-point line. If he can put on some muscle, add some ballhandling and improve his shot creation, Evans could develop into a go-to scorer and a solid two-way player in the rotation.

Julia Hansen/Iowa City Press-Citizen / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Best rank: 9 / Worst rank: 35

6-4 | 180 lbs | 6-7 WS | Senior

This senior combo guard heading to Iowa after a brief stint at Drake is known for his great shooting off the move and crafty handles. If he can prove he can be efficient against tough Big Ten competition, he’ll solidify his value as a go-to shooter who can also contribute as a secondary playmaker.

University of Michigan

Best rank: 11 / Worst rank: 28

6-9 | 235 lbs | 7-4 WS | Senior

Lendeborg, who withdrew from the 2025 NBA Draft after being a potential first-round pick, can do a bit of everything. He helps initiate fast breaks, makes plays on the move, and scores from all over the court while snagging rebounds and switching on defense. If he can tighten up his jumper and make cleaner decisions, he might fit the mold of a versatile two-way frontcourt player like Guerschon Yabusele at the next level.

Tolga Adanali/Euroleague Basketball via Getty Images

Best rank: 9 / Worst rank: NR

6-7 | 195 lbs | 6-11 WS | 2006

The highly anticipated French wing arrives from Barcelona with an intriguing blend of defensive versatility and the ability to shoot from beyond the arc. At Duke, he is expected to showcase his dynamic slashing capabilities in transition and in the half-court. However, scouts are primarily keen to observe improvements in his off-ball shooting and decision-making when driving to the basket. Should his court awareness evolve to match his physical tools, Sarr has the potential to emerge as a Top 10 two-way wing in the league akin to Bilal Coulibaly.

Jordan Prather-Imagn Images

Best rank: 14 / Worst rank: NR

6-1 | 172 lbs | 6-5 WS | Sophomore

Auburn’s lead guard is a dynamic scorer with a knack for quick bursts of speed, adept at hitting pull-up three-pointers and fearlessly attacking the rim. Pettiford had a decent showcase at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine and he will use the feedback from scouts this season to boost his draft stock. His shorter stature may limit his margin for error in certain situations, making it essential for him to improve his playmaking abilities and on-ball defense to transform late-first round buzz into solid draft reality.

Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Best rank: 10 / Worst rank: NR

6-3 | 175 lbs | 6-6 WS | Sophomore

With an advanced understanding of the game, Philon navigates the court brilliantly, using changes in pace and clever off-ball movements to manipulate opposing defenses. Philon has this herky-jerky style of play that will suit the NBA if he can improve his shot. Adding 10 pounds of muscle and developing a more consistent catch-and-shoot game could elevate his high basketball IQ into tangible first-round value.

Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

Best rank: 16 / Worst rank: NR

6-6 | 215 lbs | 6-10 WS | Sophomore

The younger brother of NBA player Kevin Knox has shown significant growth, finishing last season with a solid season shooting from deep. Combining straight-line explosiveness with an improved shooting stroke, if Knox can maintain his jumper while tightening his ball-handling skills, he could transform into a valuable plug-and-play scoring wing.

University of Florida

Best rank: 8 / Worst rank: NR

6-2 | 172 lbs | 6-6 WS | Sophomore

A maestro of the pick-and-roll, Fland has the ability to shift speeds and drain long-range shots with ease. However, he must find a balance between his scoring instinct and playmaking responsibilities. Fland has one of the best-looking shots in college basketball, and he needs to be more consistent from deep as he’ll be an undersized guard prospect for the modern NBA. Florida’s fast-paced style of play will provide him with the opportunity to showcase that he’s not just a scorer, but also a capable facilitator.

Grace Hollars/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Best rank: 7 / Worst rank: NR

6-5 | 185 lbs | 6-7 WS | Freshman

One of the most lethal movement shooters in this class, boasting a staggering shot from three during the AAU season, Mullins joins Dan Hurley’s screen-heavy offense. His tenacious defense at the point-of-attack will keep him on the floor, and his ability to make quick decisions and create off-ball movement hints at substantial one-and-done potential. If Mullins can show the ability to shoot off-ball when running off screens, showcase his movement shooting and be consistent, he’ll be a potential lottery pick.

Andy Abeyta/The Desert Sun / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Best rank: 5 / Worst rank: NR

6-8 | 215 lbs | 6-9 WS | Freshman

Khamenia from Duke is another exciting talent. Standing 6-8 and weighing 215 pounds, he plays like a point guard while also being a forward. He processes the game super fast, can make fancy passes with either hand, and has reliable shooting range. Khamenia needs to solidify his position as a combo forward and avoid being labeled as a “tweener” due to his unique skillset.  If he can improve his burst and add some strength, he’ll really elevate his game and be a smart playmaker in any lineup.

Scott Wachter-Imagn Images

Best rank: 15 / Worst rank: NR

6-9 | 210 lbs | 6-11 WS | Junior

The Gators’ hidden gem, Haugh combines the agility to switch on defense, explosive leaping ability, and an emerging shooting touch from beyond the arc, hitting 34 percent of his attempts. Haugh fits the modern-say four position as a utility player that can moonlight as a stretch five. The Gators saw a significant jump in net rating during his minutes; an increase in his role could catapult him into first-round consideration.

David Rodriguez Munoz / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Best rank: 5 / Worst rank: NR

6-2 | 180 lbs | 6-6 WS | Freshman

An explosive lead guard, Acuff possesses a strong build paired with downhill speed and impressive shooting range. Acuff Jr. has a thicker build, lower center of gravity and can be a dynamic facilitator in the pick-and-roll. His success will hinge on his consistency as a decision-maker and his commitment to defensive responsibilities, which will determine if his esteemed high school pedigree translates to immediate SEC success.

Pamela Smith-Imagn Images

Best rank: 9 / Worst rank: NR

6-7 | 197 lbs | 7-0 WS | Freshman

Currently recovering from a serious car crash, the son of former NBA star Gilbert Arenas displays an impressive skill set with the footwork and confidence of a professional scorer. Arenas is a massive combo guard who can play the wing, with the ability to score on all three levels while guarding one through threes. If he can regain his quickness and shot-creating ability, the 18-year-old still holds the potential to be a high lottery selection.

Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images

Best rank: 19 / Worst rank: NR

7-0 | 222 lbs | 7-0 WS | Junior

A mobile seven-footer with soft hands and exceptional grab-and-go capabilities, Condon possesses a budding proficiency in pick-and-pop situations. He plays with the stereotypical Aussie grit, willing to play bigger than he is, does the dirty work and always makes himself available. To elevate his status from an intriguing prospect to a solid investment, he must become more assertive in securing rebounds and consistently protecting the rim.

Eakin Howard-Imagn Images

Best rank: 23 / Worst rank: NR

6-9 | 210 lbs | 7-1 WS | Junior

Known for his relentless motor, Toppin excels at rebounding, transitioning smoothly, switching onto wing players, and displaying flashes of face-up scoring. Toppin is arguably the best rebounding non-big in the nation and one of the best offensive rebounders in the nation. By honing his corner three-point shooting proficiency and enhancing his short-roll passing skills, he can scale his energizing style into NBA rotations.

Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Best rank: 17 / Worst rank: NR

6-6 | 182 lbs | 6-10 WS | Junior

A defensive playmaker with impressive stats, including 2.1 steals and 1.1 blocks per game, Byrd possesses a keen passing vision and a solid free throw percentage that bodes well as foreshadowing his shooting potential. Byrd has all the makings of a Swiss army knife type of wing that competes on both ens. After withdrawing from the 2025 NBA Draft as a fringe first-round prospect, Byrd will hit the weight room and the gym to boost his draft stock. However, his career shooting from three remains the lone barrier between him and true 3-and-D status.

University of St. John’s

Best rank: 15 / Worst rank: NR

6-5 | 190 lbs | 6-8 WS | Sophomore

An explosive athlete, Jackson showcases the ability to score from all three levels but still requires improvement in his decision-making and defensive discipline. Jackson showed he can score in a myriad of ways but the inconsistency and tunnel vision as a passer hurts him. He could also become a more an engaged defender as his effort wanes at times. A breakout season under Rick Pitino’s guidance could reignite his trajectory toward a Top 15 draft selection.

William Purnell-Imagn Images

Best rank: 21 / Worst rank: NR

6-7 | 230 lbs | 7-6 WS | Junior

Widely regarded as one of college basketball’s best defenders, Tugler excels at erasing mistakes with remarkable ground coverage and impressive vertical leaping ability due to his wingspan being almost a foot longer than his height. He will be a day one plus-help defender and weakside rim protector in the NBA. Offensively, his game is limited to cuts and rolls, but even developing a reliable corner three-point shot would enhance his readiness for the NBA.

Pamela Smith-Imagn Images

Best rank: 11 / Worst rank: NR

6-4 | 190 lbs | 6-5 WS | Freshman

University of Kentucky

Best rank: 17 / Worst rank: NR

6-8 | 190 lbs | 6-10 WS | Freshman

Sally Maxson / for BCT / USA TODAY NETWORK

Best rank: 9 / Worst rank: NR

6-4 | 185 lbs | 6-6 WS | Freshman

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Best rank: 11 / Worst rank: NR

6-5 | 200 lbs | 6-9 WS | Freshman

Hans Lucas/AFP via Getty Images)

Best rank: 17 / Worst rank: NR

6-6 | 175 lbs | 6-7 WS | 2005

University of Michigan

Best rank: 22 / Worst rank: NR

7-3 | 233 lbs | 7-6 WS | Junior

Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images

Best rank: 24 / Worst rank: NR

6-4 | 190 lbs | 6-5 WS | Senior

Emilee Chinn/Getty Images

Best rank: 28 / Worst rank: NR

6-0 | 175 lbs | 6-3 WS | Senior

Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Best rank: 27 / Worst rank: NR

6-8 | 219 lbs | 6-11 | Senior

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Imagesn Images

Best rank: 18 / Worst rank: NR

6-4 | 200 lbs | 6-5 WS | Freshman

Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Best rank: 13 / Worst rank: NR

6-10 | 235 lbs | 7-4 WS | Sophomore

Dylan Buell/Getty Images

Best rank: 36 / Worst rank: NR

6-8 | 220 lbs | 6-10 WS | Sophomore

Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Best rank: 21 / Worst rank: NR

6-3 | 190 lbs | 6-6 WS | Junior

Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

Best rank: 33 / Worst rank: NR

6-6 | 236 lbs | 6-6 WS | Senior

University of Kentucky

Best rank: 31 / Worst rank: NR

6-1 | 162 lbs | 6-6 WS | Junior

Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

Best rank: 35 / Worst rank: NR

7-1 | 220 lbs | 7-3 WS | Sophomore

Steph Chambers/Getty Images

Best rank: 34 / Worst rank: NR

7-0 | 250 lbs | 7-6 WS | Senior

Zachary Taft-Imagn Images

Best rank: 27 / Worst rank: NR

6-5 | 195 lbs | 6-7 WS | Sophomore

Kansas State University

Best rank: 24 / Worst rank: NR

6-6 | 195 lbs | 6-9 WS | 2006

KK Mega Basket

Best rank: 25 / Worst rank: NR

6-7 | 190 lbs | 6-9 WS | 2007

Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

Best rank: 34 / Worst rank: NR

6-9 | 240 lbs | 7-1 WS | Junior

University of Washington

Best rank: 26 / Worst rank: NR

6-9 | 185 lbs | 6-11 WS | 2006

University of Southern California

Best rank: 23 / Worst rank: NR

6-10 | 230 lbs | 7-0 WS | Sophomore

Chris Coduto/Getty Images

Best rank: 27 / Worst rank: NR

7-2 | 260 lbs | 7-2 WS | Junior

Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images

Best rank: 26 / Worst rank: NR

6-7 | 187 lbs | 6-8 WS | 2006

Arianna Grainey-Imagn Images

Best rank: 29 / Worst rank: NR

6-6 | 200 lbs | 6-8 WS | Sophomore

University of Virginia

Best rank: 37 / Worst rank: NR

6-10 | 220 lbs | 7-0 WS | 2005


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