Top 100 NBA Draft Prospects for 2026: Peterson Leads the Charge

UPDATE: As the 2025-26 NCAA basketball season kicks off, excitement is building around the highly anticipated 2026 NBA Draft. New rankings from ESPN have just revealed the top 100 prospects, with Darryn Peterson emerging as the leading candidate for the No. 1 pick. This ranking could significantly influence the strategies of NBA teams as they navigate the upcoming season.

With a fresh crop of talent, this year’s draft class is being hailed as one of the strongest in recent memory. Peterson, along with AJ Dybantsa and Cameron Boozer, forms a trio that is expected to dominate discussions leading up to the lottery. NBA scouts are already on the move, scouting these top prospects during the national nonconference matchups scheduled for November and December.

The Kansas Jayhawks star, Darryn Peterson, a 6’6″ guard, is generating buzz as he showcases skills reminiscent of Derrick Rose. His dynamic play and physicality have left little for scouts to critique, making him a strong frontrunner as the season unfolds. Peterson’s college debut against Duke on November 18 will be a critical moment for his draft stock.

“Peterson is the total package, and he’s in the driver’s seat at this stage of the season,” said an NBA scout.

Following closely is AJ Dybantsa, a 6’9″ forward from BYU. Once considered the favorite for the top spot, Dybantsa’s inconsistency last year opened the door for Peterson. However, his impressive performance at the FIBA U19 World Cup has reignited discussions about his potential. As teams look for a franchise player, Dybantsa’s size and athleticism could make him a game-changer if he can maintain consistency.

Cameron Boozer, a 6’9″ power forward from Duke, rounds out the top three. Boozer’s college readiness and all-around skills make him a prominent figure in this draft class. His ability to contribute immediately to Duke’s offense could elevate his draft status significantly. Evaluators are keen to see how he adapts his game to the collegiate level.

The NCAA landscape is shifting, with many returning players opting to stay in school due to the influence of NIL deals. This has contributed to a deeper draft pool, with an influx of top-tier talent ready to make their mark. The implications for NBA teams are profound, as franchises consider their long-term strategies and potential tanking races for prime draft positions.

As the season progresses, eyes will be on key matchups, including the highly anticipated game between Kansas and Duke. These contests will not only showcase the top prospects but could also have a lasting impact on their draft positions.

In addition to Peterson, Dybantsa, and Boozer, other notable prospects making waves include Nate Ament from Tennessee and Caleb Wilson from North Carolina. Ament, at 6’10”, is recognized for his potential to contribute on both ends, while Wilson’s breakout performance against Kansas solidified his status among the top prospects.

The 2026 NBA Draft is shaping up to be a pivotal event for many franchises, and the early hype surrounding these players is just the beginning. Fans and scouts alike will be watching closely as these young athletes navigate their college careers, with their futures in the NBA hanging in the balance.

Stay tuned as we continue to bring you the latest updates on the 2026 NBA Draft prospects and their journeys through the NCAA season!