With the start of March Madness right around the corner, now is a great time to put out an updated version of LWOS’ 2026 NBA mock draft. As we head towards the NCAA Tournament, prospects across the board have certainly demonstrated immense excellence that warrants changes in their placement. Based on the draft order from Tankathon as of March 9th, let’s dive into the fourth iteration of LWOS’ 2026 NBA mock draft of the first round.
2026 NBA Mock Draft 4.0: Pre-March Madness Edition
1. Sacramento Kings: Cameron Boozer, Duke, PF
Sitting at the top of this 2026 NBA mock draft is the Sacramento Kings, and they will take the most consistent player in the draft, Cameron Boozer. While it is a difficult decision to pick between Boozer and the other top-three picks, Boozer gets the nod over them for this mock due to his incredible production over the course of the season. Even in his poorest games, the six-foot-nine Duke forward has consistently demonstrated that he can affect all parts of the game. Not only can Boozer dribble, pass, and shoot at a high level, but he can also provide impactful defense and rebounding. Boozer may not have top-tier athleticism or a flashy game, but his skill set is incredibly effective, and he is an excellent processor of the game.
For a Sacramento team that needs a centerpiece for their rebuild, it won’t get much better than Boozer. He will unquestionably be the best player in their young core. Guys like Keegan Murray, Nique Clifford, and Maxime Raynaud would all certainly benefit from playing next to a two-way player like Boozer. In Boozer, the Kings would get someone who could change the course of their franchise for the better.
2. Indiana Pacers: Darryn Peterson, Kansas, SG/PG
In the midst of a lost season, the Pacers have a shimmering star to look to as a silver lining in their own first-round pick. While they can potentially lose it to the Clippers if it falls between five and nine, this 2026 NBA mock draft has them at second. With the pick, they can get one of the best guard prospects in recent times to form a certainly formidable backcourt with Tyrese Haliburton. That guard prospect is Kansas guard Darryn Peterson, who has proven himself to be an elite scorer and impactful defender.
While the six-foot-five Peterson has fallen to second and his season has been plagued by injuries, Peterson is undoubtedly the most gifted guard in the class. Peterson’s abilities as a shooter and overall offensive player next to Haliburton would supercharge Indiana’s offense. His skill set fits perfectly into that system, giving guys like Pascal Siakam and Ivica Zubac the spacing they need. His two-way potential makes him an incredible partner for Haliburton. However, if Haliburton fails to return to his All-Star self, Peterson is capable of being the main offensive option for Indiana going forward. Peterson would certainly return the Pacers back to their contender status and help them stay there for a long time.
3. Washington Wizards: AJ Dybantsa, BYU, SF
Getting the third overall pick is still a major prize for this particular draft, and the Wizards have it. With the pick, Washington will get their star wing of the future in BYU forward AJ Dybantsa. The six-foot-nine wing is one of the best wing prospects in this year’s draft, having the upside to be a franchise-changing talent. Dybantsa, the nation’s leading scorer, is an excellent offensive player, providing immense rim pressure and mid-range scoring. Furthermore, he has demonstrated strong playmaking abilities and upside as a three-point shooter. Defensively, Dybantsa has all the tools to be an elite two-way wing with the proper development.
He can be the final piece to help bring Washington out of their rebuild and back into prominence. Next to the young core of Alex Sarr, Kyshawn George, Tre Johnson, and more, Dybantsa can be the offensive first option that Washington has been looking for. With the additions of Trae Young and Anthony Davis, Dybantsa will add more firepower to a rising Wizards team looking to be a major threat in the East.
4. Brooklyn Nets: Caleb Wilson, UNC, PF
The Brooklyn Nets are in need of more talent for their growing young core. Luckily for them, they have the fourth pick in this mock draft, allowing them to draft someone as talented as Caleb Wilson, who recently suffered a season-ending thumb injury. The six-foot-ten UNC forward is one of the best two-way prospects in the draft, demonstrating dominance on both ends of the floor using his absurd athleticism and physical tools. He is unquestionably an explosive dunker at the rim who has also shown potential as a passer and shooter. Defensively, Wilson is an elite defensive playmaker who can generate transition opportunities at a high level. Plus, Wilson consistently makes his presence known on the glass and plays with a high motor.
He would fit tremendously on a Jordi Fernandez-led team, with his two-way play being a foundational piece of Brooklyn’s rebuild. His defense, athleticism, and motor perfectly fit into the high-effort identity that the Nets want to foster. If he can continue to develop his shooting and frame, there is real upside for Wilson to be the star Brooklyn has been looking to build around.
5. Utah Jazz: Kingston Flemings, Houston, PG/SG
The Utah Jazz land fifth in this mock draft, but that does not mean there is a lack of talent. In fact, they can draft one of the most talented guards in a stacked guard class by taking Houston guard Kingston Flemings. He has unquestionably improved his draft stock throughout the season with his excellent play. Specifically, Flemings has proven himself to be an efficient three-level scorer who can also play-make and defend effectively as well.
While the Jazz do have a long-term point guard in Keyonte George, Flemings can provide impactful off-ball offense and, more importantly, great point-of-attack defense next to him. Plus, Flemings can facilitate the offense when George is off the court. Plus, Flemings would benefit from the spacing and interior defense that Utah possesses. To be sure, their backcourt would be on the smaller side. However, the sheer talent and skill set fit between the two guards would give Utah their backcourt of the future.
6. Atlanta Hawks (via New Orleans Pelicans): Keaton Wagler, Illinois, SG/PG
With Young out of the picture for Atlanta, they need a long-term solution at the starting guard spot. While there are plenty of talented guards in the draft, one prospect that would be an excellent fit in Atlanta is Illinois guard Keaton Wagler. Standing at six-foot-six, Wagler possesses an ideal skill set to pair next to guys like Dyson Daniels and Jalen Johnson. In particular, he is an amazing three-point shooter who has great feel as a handler and playmaker. Not only can Wagler be an elite floor-spacer for the Hawks, but he can also handle the ball and attack the paint at a high level. Plus, his size would fit the tall backcourt Atlanta currently possesses. Considering his skill set and ability to play on and off the ball, Wagler can be their starting guard for a very long time.
7. Dallas Mavericks: Mikel Brown Jr., Louisville, PG
It is highly apparent that the Dallas Mavericks need to find a long-term solution at point guard. Due to his age, Kyrie Irving isn’t someone who can be there next to Cooper Flagg for the long haul. Neither Ryan Nembhard nor Brandon Williams is the solution either. Dallas needs someone who can be Flagg’s co-star going into the future. With that being said, the Mavericks can find someone like that in Louisville guard Mikel Brown Jr., who is one of the most talented offensive players in the draft.
The six-foot-five Brown is someone who has the potential to be an offensive engine for the Mavericks while providing electric shooting. In particular, Brown is one of the best passers in the entire class, possessing excellent court vision and passing ability to find any open teammate on the court. To be sure, Brown isn’t the best defender, and he hasn’t been the most efficient scorer. However, he has the talent and potential to be an amazing secondary star next to Flagg as Dallas looks to return to the playoff picture.
8. Memphis Grizzlies: Labaron Philon, Alabama, PG/SG
Another franchise in need of a long-term solution at point guard is the Memphis Grizzlies. With Ja Morant‘s future up in the air with the departure of Jaren Jackson Jr., Memphis must find someone who can be their point guard for the long haul. One of the best options left on the board is Alabama guard Labaron Philon, who is the first non-freshman taken in this mock.
While certainly draftable last season, Philon chose to return to school, and that decision was the right one. The six-foot-four sophomore has improved across the board, developing into a true three-level scorer who has the upside to be an impactful guard defender. He is a fearless performer in clutch situations and someone who can organize the offense for his team. Next to Jaylen Wells, Zach Edey, and Cedric Coward, Philon can bring a more on-ball skill set while fitting in their defensive framework. Philon can be the prospect that Memphis is looking for while providing the potential for two-way play at the point guard spot that they never had with Morant.
9. Chicago Bulls: Jayden Quaintance, Kentucky, C/PF
With Nikola Vucevic out of the picture, the Bulls need to look for someone who can be their starting center. While injuries have robbed much of his season, Kentucky big man Jayden Quaintance can be that for Chicago. It is difficult to take anything away from Quaintance’s play this season, but what he demonstrated in his freshman year was truly incredible.
At only 17 years old last season, Quaintance proved himself to possess enormous defensive potential. The six-foot-ten big man showed incredible skill as a defensive playmaker, using his length and athleticism to rack up steals and blocks. Not only that, but he demonstrated highly impactful rebounding on both ends. Quaintance can also guard up and down the lineup, having speed and length to stick with guards. While his offensive package still needs refinement, he has shown intriguing potential as a driver and passer while being an excellent rim runner and screener. He would be an excellent partner next to Josh Giddey in the pick-and-roll, serving as an amazing lob target. Plus, Matas Buzelis and Quaintance would make an athletic defensive duo in the frontcourt. If he can stay healthy, Quaintance would be an excellent starting center who can provide the defense they need in the middle.
10. Milwaukee Bucks: Nate Ament, Tennessee, SF
The Milwaukee Bucks navigate uncertain waters as the summer looks to be a tumultuous one for their future. Their long-time franchise cornerstone, Giannis Antetokounmpo, could potentially make his exit from the franchise. Such a consequential decision would clearly move Milwaukee towards a rebuild. However, there is a chance that Antetokounmpo stays with the Bucks as they push to build a team around the Greek star. One option in the draft that has upside for the team for either scenario is selecting Tennessee star, Nate Ament.
While Ament has had an up-and-down season, the six-foot-ten wing’s play has greatly improved in conference play. As a prospect, Ament is capable of handling the ball, making passing reads, being an impactful rebounder, and shooting the ball while having upside defensively. Ament certainly needs to find consistency out on the court, but the skills and talent he brings are tantalizing if realized. For the Bucks, Ament can be their first major building block for a potential rebuild or a young wing to put next to Antetokounmpo. Regardless of the direction Milwaukee takes, taking Ament in this 2026 NBA mock draft can provide them some excitement for the future at a current position of need. With the right development, Ament can be a strong two-way wing for the Bucks, no matter if the Greek Freak stays or goes.
Tennessee forward Nate Ament (10) dribbles the ball past Alabama guard Labaron Philon Jr. (0) during a NCAA basketball game between Tennessee and Alabama at Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center in Knoxville, Tenn., on Feb. 28, 2026.
11. Portland Trail Blazers: Darius Acuff Jr., Arkansas, PG
The Portland Trail Blazers are in a conundrum with their former 2023 third overall pick, Scoot Henderson. Specifically, Henderson hasn’t lived up to his pre-draft expectations and has struggled over the past two seasons. Considering that fact, the Blazers may need to look elsewhere for their future point guard. Luckily for them, this draft class is filled with talented guards. One talented guard who can be their long-term solution at point guard is Darius Acuff Jr., who has been a standout at Arkansas.
Standing at six-foot-three, Acuff has been one of the best scorers in college basketball, demonstrating elite three-level scoring. He has been extremely efficient as a scorer, while showing off his excellent ball-handling ability that allows him to effectively break down opposing defenses. Not only that, but he is also a great playmaker in his own right. To be fair, Acuff is a smaller guard who has struggled to be impactful defensively. Nevertheless, his offensive potential would be valuable for Portland. He can certainly be effective with the ball in his hands. However, he has the off-ball ability to play next to Deni Avdija and Shaedon Sharpe. Acuff can provide much-needed perimeter shot-making while benefitting from playing next to a strong defensive young core. Overall, Acuff would be a great alternative for Portland to pivot towards if they wish to move on from Henderson.
12. Charlotte Hornets: Yaxel Lendeborg, Michigan, PF
The Charlotte Hornets have shown real growth this season, with multiple rookies like Kon Knueppel, Sion James, and Ryan Kalkbrenner demonstrating their excellence. In fact, they are currently in the postseason mix. With this upcoming draft, they have a chance to add another real piece to their rising young core. They would benefit from drafting another skilled forward for their frontcourt. A player that would fit with Charlotte and their needs is Michigan forward Yaxel Lendeborg. In Lendeborg, Charlotte will get an athletic forward who possesses a Swiss army-knife skill set. While he hasn’t been the most consistent shooter, Lendeborg has proven himself to be a real interior scorer who can also play-make well for his position. Plus, he is an impactful defender who can rack up steals, blocks, and rebounds. He can be a versatile, two-way piece in the frontcourt for Charlotte while being immediately NBA-ready for them.
13. Golden State Warriors: Brayden Burries, Arizona, SG/PG
Golden State has had a disappointing season, with abundant injuries and poor play. Nevertheless, the Warriors can look forward to getting a lottery pick in this 2026 NBA mock draft. With the pick, they can get an excellent guard in Arizona’s Brayden Burries. Despite a slow start to his freshman career, the six-foot-four Burries has turned his season around. He is one of the better scoring guards in college basketball, using his physicality to get into the paint. Furthermore, Burries is a good shot creator and ball-handler who can also space the floor effectively. He is also a strong rebounder for his position. Burries can give Golden State another skilled guard who can create offense outside of Stephen Curry, while also fitting into their offensive system. Plus, he can provide the Warrior more size and physicality at the guard spot.
14. San Antonio Spurs (via Atlanta Hawks): Hannes Steinbach, Washington, C/PF
Unquestionably, the San Antonio Spurs have exploded back into postseason contention with the rise of Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs’ young core. They have been one of the best teams in a brutal Western Conference, only behind the Thunder. The Spurs already have a strong roster, but they can stand to add more depth in the frontcourt. Particularly, they can use another long-term big man behind Wembanyama and Luke Kornet.
Standing at six-foot-eleven, Washington big man Hannes Steinbach fits the bill as a sturdy frontcourt prospect who can rebound and finish at a high level. He is easily one of the best rebounding prospects in the class, and his touch around the rim is excellent. Furthermore, Steinbach has some flashes of extending his range beyond the three-point line, giving him upside as a shooter. His strong frame and the skills he provides would make him a great fit with Wembanyama, allowing them dominance over the boards and in the interior. He certainly will be injury insurance for Wembanyama and Kornet. However, he has all the talent and skills to be more for San Antonio.
15. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Los Angeles Clippers): Thomas Haugh, Florida, SF/PF
With the first of back-to-back picks in this 2026 NBA mock draft, the Thunder will add more size and length on the wings. Specifically, they will take Florida forward Thomas Haugh, giving them a bigger wing to rely upon. To be sure, the defending champions have an amazing roster that has proven themselves championship-worthy. However, they can use a bigger forward in the rotation. At six-foot-nine, Haugh can provide the size and length while also bringing athleticism, rebounding, and motor. He can put the ball on the floor, pass, and has the potential to shoot, which fits with the Thunder’s drafting philosophy. Plus, Haugh has the tools, motor, and flashes to be an impactful defender who can defend multiple positions at the next level. Haugh can give the Thunder the size and athleticism they need in the frontcourt, strengthening the strongest team in the league.
16. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Philadelphia 76ers): Patrick Ngongba II, Duke, C/PF
With their second pick, Oklahoma City will fortify their frontcourt by taking Duke center Patrick Ngongba II. While the Thunder does have guys like Isaiah Hartenstein, Chet Holmgren, and Thomas Sorber, they are going to need an extra big. Hartenstein isn’t likely to be on the roster next season. Whether or not Holmgren will play as the full-time five remains to be seen. For both Sorber and Holmgren, they have injury concerns, which necessitate another big on the roster. To be clear, Ngongba also has some injury concerns with his foot. However, he is still an immensely talented center prospect.
He is capable of handling the ball to some extent and can pass well for his position. Furthermore, he has shown flashes as a shooter. Defensively, the six-foot-eleven Ngongba can also provide stout interior defense. He has all the tools and skills to be a great big man for their rotation. Ngongba can provide consistent production and impact for the Thunder as they continue with their championship window.
17. Miami Heat: Koa Peat, Arizona, PF
One of the bigger needs for the Miami Heat is adding to their frontcourt, specifically at power forward. They do have two great bigs in Bam Adebayo and Kel’el Ware, but they can use a bigger forward as well. Out of the forward left on the board, Arizona forward Koa Peat possesses the skills and talent to be a great fit with Heat culture.
The six-foot-eight Peat is a physical forward who can put major pressure on the rim off of drives and cuts. He is fully capable of using his size and ball-handling to exploit mismatches. Peat is also a very solid passer who can keep the offense flowing. His combination of size and athleticism allows him to guard across various positions and be a presence on the boards. While not a three-point shooter, Peat does have a decent mid-range game to augment his rim attack. Peat would be a strong addition to Miami’s frontcourt. He can be a long-time contributor to the Heat with his physical play and interior scoring.
18. Memphis Grizzlies (via Orlando Magic): Braylon Mullins, UConn, SG
After taking Philon earlier, Memphis can stand to add more shooting to the roster. That’s where UConn guard Braylon Mullins comes into the fold. While injuries delayed the start of his season, Mullins has proven to be one of the better shooters in the class. At six-foot-six, he possesses great positional size for his role and skill set. He can be used in various shooting contexts, such as a spot-up floor-spacer or a movement shooter. However, with his size and athleticism, Mullins can effectively attack closeouts as well. While not a stopper on defense, Mullins has the size and defensive playmaking ability to make an impact. With further development to his frame, Mullins can be an impactful role player for Memphis.
19. Toronto Raptors: Bennett Stirtz, Iowa, PG
Despite having a season filled with highs and lows, the Toronto Raptors clearly need more shooting and point guard play on the roster. While they have a gritty defensive identity, the Raptors can really stand to improve on the offensive end. Iowa guard Bennett Stirtz can provide both in spades, being a great shooter and playmaker. The six-foot-four guard has been one of the best floor generals in college basketball, which the Raptors can benefit from. With his efficient three-level scorer and passing ability, he can elevate Toronto’s offense and improve their spacing. Not only can Stirtz quarterback an offense as the main ball-handler, but he can also be an off-ball spacer next to stars like Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram. Overall, Stirtz would be an amazing fit in Toronto and would be a major boost to their offense.
20. Charlotte Hornets (via Phoenix Suns): Cameron Carr, Baylor, SG/SF
The Hornets filled a need in the frontcourt by taking Lendeborg. Now, with this pick, they can add more athleticism and shooting around LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. A player with the perfect blend of athleticism and shooting is Baylor wing Cameron Carr. The six-foot-five wing has been an electric scorer for the Bears this season. He is an explosive dunker and a great three-point shooter, being an efficient three-level scorer. Carr has serious slashing ability that is augmented by his great shot-making skills. While not necessarily the best passer, he can move the ball well enough. As a defender, Carr’s best aspect on that end of the floor is his defensive playmaking, specifically as a shot blocker. He has great instincts as a weakside rim protector, knowing when to contest shots. Carr would be an excellent addition to this offensively dynamic Hornets squad, making their offense even more potent.
21. Denver Nuggets: Christian Anderson, Texas Tech, PG
It’s been very clear this season that the Denver Nuggets need offense outside of Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray. The role players around them have been inconsistent in providing any sort of self-created offense. Due to this, getting someone who can provide offense, as both a scorer and facilitator, would go a long way for the Nuggets. An amazing option for them left on the board is Texas Tech guard Christian Anderson, who has had an excellent sophomore season. The six-foot-two guard is an impressive three-level scorer who can also play-make at a high level. With his shooting ability, Anderson can certainly play off of Murray or Jokic as a floor-spacer. With his clear offensive skill set and off-ball versatility, Anderson would give Denver a real boost off the bench and another ball-handler who can create offense.
22. Los Angeles Lakers: Morez Johnson Jr., Michigan, PF/C
The Los Angeles Lakers have clear needs across their roster, but one area that they must improve is in the middle. Deandre Ayton hasn’t proven himself to be their long-term solution at center. As for Jaxson Hayes, while he has been a capable backup big, he isn’t the answer either. Los Angeles would benefit from getting another talented big man on the roster, especially one who can play in their small-ball lineups. The perfect name for them in this draft is Michigan big man Morez Johnson Jr., who has been a major contributor to the Wolverines’ success.
Standing at six-foot-nine, Johnson is a bit undersized for his playstyle and role. However, he has the strength, motor, and skill to play bigger than his size would suggest. He has shown throughout the college season that he is an amazing defender with high defensive versatility. Johnson has the mobility and length to be a switchable defender who can guard multiple positions. That aspect of his game would be invaluable for a Lakers team that loves to switch. While he isn’t the best offensive player, Johnson is an excellent finisher with some shooting touch. He would thrive next to playmakers like Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, who definitely have the vision to find him.
23. Atlanta Hawks (via Cleveland Cavaliers): Motiejus Krivas, Arizona, C
The Hawks picked up Wagler early in the mock, but Atlanta can use more help elsewhere on their roster. Specifically, the Hawks would benefit from adding a true seven-footer to their frontcourt. One player who fits that description and who would help them defensively is Arizona center Motiejus Krivas. Standing at seven-foot-two, Krivas is easily one of the best defensive centers in college basketball. He is an excellent interior defender who operates well in drop coverage. Krivas utilizes his size and length well as a shot blocker and rebounder, consistently racking up both. Offensively, Krivas is a great interior scorer and play-finisher, with solid indicators of being a real shooter. Getting someone as talented as Krivas would make Atlanta’s frontcourt extremely formidable defensively.
24. Philadelphia 76ers (via Houston Rockets): Amari Allen, Alabama, SF
With Philadelphia, they can go a number of ways in terms of using this pick. They do have a need at point guard, but the Sixers can use another wing. For this 2026 NBA mock draft, they will address their wing issue by taking Alabama wing Amari Allen. The six-foot-seven wing is a versatile prospect on either end of the floor. On defense, his versatility translates into his ability to defend across multiple positions and be a switchable defender. Furthermore, Allen is great at using his length to bother passing lanes and be a solid defensive playmaker.
On offense, Allen is capable of multiple things. Specifically, he is a solid shooter who can space the floor effectively. However, he can also handle the ball to a limited extent, make passing reads, and occasionally attack the basket. For a Sixers team that can use more wings, getting a versatile one in Allen would be a great outcome.
25. New York Knicks: Dailyn Swain, Texas, SF
The New York Knicks are a pretty well-rounded team with depth in multiple positions, but it is always nice to add another wing. One wing who possesses two-way potential and brings needed skills that they can draft is Texas wing Dailyn Swain. The Knicks are a team that would benefit from Swain’s abilities as a driver and passer. Standing at six-foot-seven, he is fully capable of creating drives and putting pressure on the rim, which can help alleviate some of the offensive burden from Jalen Brunson. Swain also fits into their defensive roster, as he himself is a strong defender. He is great at using his length to force turnovers and get out on the break. Shooting is the major area that will swing his ceiling as a player. However, Swain has plenty of skill and talent to offer the Knicks.
26. Detroit Pistons (via Minnesota Timberwolves): Joshua Jefferson, Iowa State, PF/SF
Being one of the best teams in the entire NBA, it is difficult to find many issues with the Pistons. However, they can use another versatile forward in their frontcourt. Iowa State forward Joshua Jefferson can be that forward for them as the upperclassman possesses a diverse skill set. At six-foot-eight, Jefferson is a capable scorer who can both space the floor and play-make for others. Not only that, but he can also defend at a high level, using his length, physicality, and basketball IQ to force turnovers. With his versatile skill set and his college experience, Jefferson can be an NBA-ready prospect who can provide impact to the Pistons immediately.
27. Boston Celtics: Aday Mara, Michigan, C
Despite trading for Vucevic at the deadline, the Boston Celtics can use a long-term solution at the starting center spot. With that in mind, one intriguing option for them is drafting Michigan big man Aday Mara. Standing at a massive seven-foot-three, Mara is a defensive stalwart in the paint, using his size and length to alter or block shots. In fact, Mara is one of the best shot blockers in college basketball. While Mara provides immense value on the defensive end, he also has intriguing offensive potential. Mara is a skilled play finisher with touch around the rim, but the thing that sets him apart from other bigs offensively is his passing. He has the court vision and passing ability to make quick reads around the court. If he can continue to polish his playmaking, Mara can be a high-level starter for Boston in the future.
28. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Detroit Pistons): Tyler Tanner, Vanderbilt, PG
The Timberwolves can use another point guard on the roster, and one who can fit into their defensive culture. The point guard that best fits the Wolves is Vanderbilt guard Tyler Tanner, who has had a dramatic rise in his draft stock. The rising sophomore has proven himself to be a strong defensive playmaker and capable offensive prospect at just six feet tall. He has a supernatural ability to play passing lanes and force turnovers, converting them to transition opportunities. Offensively, he is an efficient three-level scorer who can also facilitate the offense. He is great at using his speed to break down opposing defenders. For a team that lacks long-term point guard play, the Wolves can’t find anyone better than Tanner.
29. Cleveland Cavaliers (via San Antonio Spurs): Karim Lopez, New Zealand Breakers, SF/PF
The Cleveland Cavaliers are towards the bottom of the first round, but they can use another forward for their team. An intriguing option for them is New Zealand Breakers forward Karim Lopez, who can potentially become the first Mexican-born player drafted in the first round. Lopez is a six-foot-seven wing who is known for his physical tools and strength. He utilizes his physicality to attack the paint, and Lopez has shown potential as a shooter. In terms of defense, Lopez isn’t the best laterally, but he knows how to use his length. Specifically, he utilizes his wingspan to generate steals and block shots. Lopez is certainly a project, but he can become a strong two-way wing with the right development.
30. Dallas Mavericks (via Oklahoma City Thunder): Chris Cenac Jr., Houston, PF/C
Rounding out this 2026 NBA mock draft is the Dallas Mavericks, who took Brown earlier. With the last pick in the first round, Dallas will take Houston forward Chris Cenac Jr., who possesses intriguing potential. Standing at six-foot-eleven, Cenac has an excellent combination of athleticism and physical tools. He is a mobile defender who has the length and quickness to defend multiple positions. He is capable of switching onto wings along the perimeter and guarding bigs in the paint. Offensively, Cenac has shown flashes of being a shooter, using his size to knock down shots over opponents. Not only that, but he has also shown potential as a face-up scorer as well.
Next to Flagg and Dereck Lively II, Cenac can help form a truly dynamic defensive frontcourt for Dallas. He absolutely needs to find consistency on both ends of the court, despite the improvements that he has made. Regardless, Cenac can truly be an impactful two-way forward for Dallas if he can improve.
Featured Image: Rob Kinnan-Imagn Images