It was easy to predict who would be selected first overall in the 2025 NBA Draft more than a year in advance of commissioner Adam Silver calling names. It was always going to be Cooper Flagg. But the 2026 NBA Draft has more questions at the top and features at least three prospects who could reasonably lead front office big boards right now — specifically Darryn Peterson,

Cameron Boozer continues to separate himself with his combination of skill, feel and maturity that rarely show up in a player his age. At 6'9" and 235 pounds, he brings a pro-ready frame and a polished inside-out game built on efficient scoring, advanced footwork and high-IQ decision-making.

In ESPN's new 60-pick 2026 NBA mock draft by Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo, a pair of KU stars were featured. Freshman guard Darryn Peterson is projected to go No. 1 overall to the Washington Wizards, while Flory Bidunga slots in at the end of the second round at No. 56 overall.