The countdown to the 2026 NBA Draft is officially on, and a fierce battle for the top spot continues to dominate conversations around the league. With less than a week remaining before draft night, a newly released mock draft from On3 has reignited debate over who should hear their name called first: BYU star AJ Dybantsa or Kansas standout Darryn Peterson.
As NBA front offices finalize evaluations and the international withdrawal deadline has passed, the pool of draft prospects is now set. Teams are conducting final workouts, gathering last-minute intel, and preparing for what could be one of the most talent-rich draft classes in recent memory.
In On3’s latest 60-pick projection, the Washington Wizards hold the coveted No. 1 overall selection and are projected to choose Dybantsa, while Peterson lands at No. 2 with the Utah Jazz. The decision is expected to remain one of the biggest storylines leading into draft week.
Dybantsa’s rise to the top isn’t surprising. The BYU standout has long been viewed as one of basketball’s most complete prospects, combining elite size, scoring ability, defensive upside, and growing playmaking skills. Scouts believe his combination of athleticism and versatility makes him an ideal modern NBA wing.
The biggest question surrounding Dybantsa remains his perimeter shooting consistency. If that aspect of his game continues to improve, many evaluators believe he possesses genuine superstar potential at the professional level.
Wizards Bet on the Future with Dybantsa
The Wizards enter the draft after securing the No. 1 pick while simultaneously attempting to become more competitive. Despite adding veteran stars Trae Young and Anthony Davis, Washington appears committed to building around a long-term franchise cornerstone.
Dybantsa’s skill set fits perfectly with that vision. His ability to create offense, defend multiple positions, and impact games on both ends of the floor gives Washington a player capable of becoming the face of the franchise for years to come.
Jazz Land Dynamic Scorer Darryn Peterson
At No. 2, the Utah Jazz are projected to select Peterson, one of the most explosive offensive players in the draft class.
Peterson showcased elite scoring ability throughout his time at Kansas, proving capable of attacking defenses from all areas of the court. Reports indicate he sees himself as a future NBA point guard, and scouts believe continued development as a playmaker could elevate him into the league’s elite category.
While some health concerns emerged following cramping issues during the season, NBA teams have reportedly completed extensive medical evaluations. His talent remains undeniable, making him a strong candidate to challenge Dybantsa’s claim as the best player in the class.
Cameron Boozer Headlines Memphis Rebuild
The Memphis Grizzlies are projected to select Duke star Cameron Boozer with the third overall pick after dramatically reshaping their roster through major trades involving Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr.
Boozer enters the draft as one of the most decorated players available. The National Player of the Year has consistently won at every level of basketball, and his combination of shooting touch and playmaking versatility gives him a unique profile among frontcourt prospects.
Questions remain about how effectively he can impose his will physically against larger NBA players, but few prospects bring a résumé as impressive as Boozer’s.
Chicago, Clippers Round Out Top Five
The Chicago Bulls are projected to take North Carolina forward Caleb Wilson at No. 4.
Wilson’s athleticism immediately stands out. He excels around the basket, impacts games defensively, and flashes intriguing mid-range scoring ability. His long-term ceiling will depend heavily on continued improvement as a perimeter shooter.
The Los Angeles Clippers hold the fifth pick and are projected to select Illinois guard Keaton Wagler.
Wagler emerged as one of college basketball’s biggest risers after an impressive season at Illinois. His scoring instincts and playmaking ability have generated significant draft buzz, though scouts continue evaluating his athletic profile and length compared to other top guards.
Lottery Filled with Talent
Several other notable names round out the lottery.
The Brooklyn Nets are projected to select Louisville guard Mikel Brown at No. 6. Sacramento follows with Arkansas standout Darius Acuff at No. 7, while Houston point guard Kingston Flemings lands with the Atlanta Hawks at No. 8.
Arizona guard Brayden Burries is projected to join the Dallas Mavericks at No. 9, while Tennessee forward Nate Ament heads to the Milwaukee Bucks at No. 10.
One particularly intriguing projection sees the Golden State Warriors selecting Michigan center Aday Mara with the 11th pick.
Mara’s enormous size, rebounding ability, shot-blocking presence, and surprising passing skills could provide valuable frontcourt depth as Golden State attempts to maximize the final championship window of Stephen Curry’s career.
Iowa’s Bennett Stirtz Cracks the First Round
One of the most notable developments for college basketball fans is the appearance of Iowa guard Bennett Stirtz in the first round.
On3 projects Stirtz to be selected 26th overall by the Denver Nuggets. Landing in the first round would mark a significant achievement for the Iowa star and further elevate his draft stock ahead of the final days before the event.
Complete Top 14 Projection
- Washington Wizards — AJ Dybantsa (BYU)
- Utah Jazz — Darryn Peterson (Kansas)
- Memphis Grizzlies — Cameron Boozer (Duke)
- Chicago Bulls — Caleb Wilson (North Carolina)
- Los Angeles Clippers — Keaton Wagler (Illinois)
- Brooklyn Nets — Mikel Brown (Louisville)
- Sacramento Kings — Darius Acuff (Arkansas)
- Atlanta Hawks — Kingston Flemings (Houston)
- Dallas Mavericks — Brayden Burries (Arizona)
- Milwaukee Bucks — Nate Ament (Tennessee)
- Golden State Warriors — Aday Mara (Michigan)
- Oklahoma City Thunder — Morez Johnson (Michigan)
- Miami Heat — Hannes Steinbach (Washington)
- Charlotte Hornets — Yaxel Lendeborg (Michigan)
Draft Week Drama Is Just Beginning
While Dybantsa currently holds the edge in On3’s latest projection, the debate is far from settled. Peterson continues to gain support from analysts and former NBA players, including those who believe he could ultimately become the best player in the class.
With draft night approaching and teams still gathering information behind closed doors, surprises remain inevitable. One thing is certain: the race between Dybantsa and Peterson has become the defining storyline of the 2026 NBA Draft, and the basketball world will be watching closely to see which franchise-changing talent comes off the board first.
