INDIANAPOLIS — You wouldn’t think Michigan would be all smiles at halftime.

Yes, it had a four-point lead over Connecticut in the national championship game, but it was an unattractive four-point lead. It was arguably the worst first-half performance of the season. Not only did the Wolverines fail to make a single 3-pointer in the first half – the only time that’s happened this season – but there were no makes outside of the paint. 

An awful first 20 minutes, but the Wolverines weren’t just staying positive, they were beaming in happiness.

Why?

“It can’t get any worse,” Michigan guard Nimari Burnett told USA TODAY Sports.

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True, but it’s not like the second half was any better. Michigan struggled offensively for all 40 minutes. The 69 points were Michigan’s third lowest of the season. It was the worst 3-point shooting night of the season. 

Actually, it was the worst shooting performance of the season, period.

UConn needed to make Michigan look ugly to win. It did that – and it still lost. 

So, how did the Wolverines do it?

Because of one thing hiding in plain sight; while Michigan was lighting up the scoreboard with its prolific offense all tournament long, it made everyone forget one thing: they are just as good on defense.

“When one side lets us down, the other side picks it up,” Michigan forward Yaxel Lendeborg said.

The Wolverines made sure to remind everybody on Monday, resulting in a national championship as those halftime smiles carried over to after the buzzer sounded and Lucas Oil Stadium rained maize and blue confetti.

It’s not like Michigan’s defensive prowess wasn’t there for all to see. Three players – Lendeborg, Morez Johnson Jr. and Aday Mara – were Big Ten all-defensive players, with Mara the conference defensive player of the year.

That’s why teams’ defensive shooting percentage of 38.4% and average of 6.1 blocks per game were each the second best mark in the country, and it was on full display in the NCAA Tournament. 

The reason why Michigan won its first five tournament games by an average of 21.6 points per game wasn’t just because it was scoring at least 90 points, but because it harassed opposing offenses every night.

No team shot above 45% against the Wolverines, and the collective opponent shooting percentage from those games? A whopping 37.9%. The defense got better in the tournament.

“The statistics, it speaks for itself,” Burnett said. “I feel like we’re the best defensive team in the country.”

Bennett and company did prove it. UConn shot a season-worst 31% from the field. A team that was top 10 in assists with more than 18 per game had just nine, the only time it was held to single digits.

Despite making nine three pointers, UConn missed 24 attempts. Shots were constantly getting contested by the the Wolverines’ quickness to the ball. Even with the looks UConn wanted, not many of them were wide open.

It didn’t get any easier near the basket. Six shots inside the paint got swatted away, making it tough for the Huskies to prevail even with their own defensive toughness.

“It’s hard to have a level of disappointment where literally it just came down to we just didn’t make enough shots in the basket,” UConn coach Dan Hurley said. “To be able to keep that team under 40% from the field – 38% – this team has destroyed everyone they’ve faced in this tournament.”

For all of its defensive success, Michigan still had to find a way to score, and it did so in an uncharacteristic way.

If there was one thing Michigan wasn’t good at, it was free throws. The Wolverines entered the night 109th in the country with a 74.3% mark from the charity stripe. They drew fouls, resulting in 28 free throw attempts.

How many makes? How about 25 for an 89.3% clip.

All of it proving to be just enough to get the biggest win of the season.

“We started off really, really bad offensively, our defense was the reason why we won most of those games, today is the same thing,” Lendeborg said. “We had to dig deep.”

While it wasn’t pretty by any means, how Michigan won showed there is nothing to doubt about this title. Since the statement it made at the Player’s Era tournament, Michigan had been a relentless machine on both sides of the ball, churning blowout after blowout, no matter who was on the other side.

Even when it isn’t able to do that, instead of falling apart like most teams could, the Wolverines opted to hone in on one of its many strengths and ride it toward a win.

“They’re legit. They definitely deserved to win the national championship. They’re clearly the best team in the country this year,” Hurley said.

UConn wanted a slugfest, and it’s exactly what it got. Michigan coach Dusty May actually admitted the Huskies “had a masterful game plan to beat us.” All of it pointed to a third national title in four years to cement Hurley’s dynasty.

Little did UConn and the rest of the country realize Michigan had been throwing it down all season, and it didn’t need another offensive surge to do that. The defense carried Michigan just as much to this point, and in the end, it proved defense wins championships.

“Obviously, it’s a big stage, but we deserve to be here,” Burnett said. “We deserve this moment.”

The nets have been cut down in Indianapolis with Michigan defeating Connecticut to win the national title and close the book on the men’s college basketball season. After a short breath, it’s already time to start looking ahead to the 2026-27 campaign and determine which teams are the contenders to play in the Final Four in Detroit next April.

There’s a lot in flux before we get to the start of the season in November, making the predictions for next season challenging. The biggest factor to weigh is the impact of the transfer portal, which officially opens Tuesday, April 7. However, we already know many of the major players moving places. There’s also the matter of the uncertain futures for several candidates for the NBA draft. In those instances, we’ve assumed upper echelon will depart but left open the door for others to stay.

We’ve done our best to put all information together and release our too-early Top 25 ranking with a heavy dose of power schools dominating.

1. Michigan State

Despite losing twin big men Jaxon Kohler and Carson Cooper, this could be a special season for the Spartans if – as expected – it brings back point guard Jeremy Fears Jr. and forward Coen Carr. Those give them two standouts to build around. Michigan State will also have great depth with most of this year’s rotation back in the fold. Tom Izzo will add in a very impressive recruiting class that ranks second nationally.

2. Duke

While player of the year Cameron Boozer departs, The Blue Devils will again have a significant infusion of freshman talent with guard Deron Rippey Jr. and forward Cameron Williams projected to be immediate impact players. Should veterans Caleb Foster, Cayden Boozer and Dame Sarr decide to forego the draft, this has the makings of one of the best teams in the nation.

3. Michigan

The Wolverines will lose Yaxel Lendeborg and should also see forward Morez Johnson Jr. and center Aday Mara enter the NBA draft. The focus of the team’s production will shift to a backcourt built around Elliot Cadeau and Trey McKenney. Michigan coach Dusty May has signed an elite recruiting class headlined by forwards Quinn Costello and Lincoln Cosby and will again hit the transfer portal aggressively.

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4. Florida

The key question for the Gators is whether Alex Condon will return for another season. He stands to be one of the top players in the SEC and would have Rueben Chinyelu alongside him up front. Boogie Fland and Urban Klavzar are confirmed returner and bring scoring punch and experience in the backcourt. A couple of transfer adds puts Florida back in title contention.

5. Arizona

The departures of most of the key players from a team that dominated the Big 12 will be hard to replace. That’s the negative. The positive is there’s enough role players due back and some key arrivals already slated to join the program. The frontcourt could be formidable with Ivan Kharchenkov and Motiejus Krivas having eligibility. Dwayne Aristode will be expected to lead the backcourt in his sophomore season, and he’ll be joined by five-star freshman Caleb Holt.

6. Illinois

This could be another Final Four team next season if things fall right. The frontcourt looks to be in great shape with David Mirkovic poised to be back with the Ivisic brothers. Andrej Stojakovic will lead the backcourt with Quentin Coleman, a late addition to the recruiting class, a potential immediate contributor after Keaton Wagler’s departure. Expect Brad Underwood bring in more pieces from the transfer portal or overseas to make Illinois a contender again.

7. Alabama

The legal situation of Aden Holloway looms over his status for next season. Should Holloway return, the Crimson Tide have plenty of potential firepower to play their up-tempo style. Amari Allen averaged double figures, while London Jamison stands to have a bigger role in his second seasons in the program. Keitenn Bristow and Jalil Bethea both failed to make an impact after their arrivals from the portal, but development from both would be a major boost.

8. Houston

The Cougars have been a No. 1 or No. 2 seed in the last four tournaments, illustrating the high standards of the program under Kelvin Sampson. There will be retooling through the portal with most of the key components from this past season departing. Veteran forward Joseph Tugler should be the leader of the group and could be joined by Chris Cenac, who is weighing a draft decision. Bigger roles are expected for Mercy Miller and Chase McCarty. Incoming prep center Arafan Diane will be asked to contribute right away.

9. Arkansas

The Razorbacks will be aiming higher after a pair of Sweet 16 appearances. While the departure of Darius Acuff Jr. will leave a major void, John Calipari is bringing in freshman guards Jordan Smith Jr. and JJ Andrews. More will be asked of veterans Billy Richmond III and Malique Ewin, but they are both capable of providing scoring punch.

10. Virginia

The Cavaliers were one of the country’s biggest surprises in Ryan Odom’s first season and stand to bring back several of their key pieces. Thijs De Ridder was first-team all-ACC in his first season with the program, and Sam Lewis and Chance Mallory will have bigger roles. It should be another season at the top of the conference.

11. Gonzaga

It’ll be a new look for the Bulldogs with the team moving into the Pac-12 that will provide greater conference competition with several of the best teams from the Mountain West also arriving. Gonzaga benefits from several mainstays returning with big man Braden Huff expected to be at full strength after missing the final stretch of the season due to a knee injury and rising sophomores Mario Saint-Supery and Davis Fogle looking to make big jumps in production. A strong recruiting class led by Jack Kayil from Germany and Luca Foster will also keep Mark Few’s team in the mix for a top seed in the tournament.

12. Connecticut

Guards Braylon Mullins and Solo Ball could enter the NBA draft. If not, though, UConn will have one of the best backcourts in the country. Silas Demery and Jayden Ross were return after contributing to the team that fell one game short of a national title. There will be a need for a new interior presence with Tarris Reed Jr. graduating, and Alex Karaban’s departure leaves a huge void. But the Huskies will add more wing scoring with freshmen Colben Landrew and Junior County.

13. Iowa State

It will be a year of transition for the Cyclones with mainstays Tamin Lipsey and Jordan Jefferson among the players moving on. Milan Momcilovic, the team’s leading scorer, is expected to explore his NBA draft options, and his return would be a massive boost. T.J. Otzelberger will be aggressive in the portal, but he has holdovers Killyan Toure, Blake Buchanan and Jamarion Batemon to build around.

14. St. John’s

Few teams will be as active in the portal with standouts Zuby Ejiofor and Bryce Hopkins out of eligibility. The backcourt should bring back experience and depth with Dylan Darling, Oziyah Sellers, Ian Jackson and Joson Sanon, though this group will need to be better from 3-point range. The biggest source of optimism comes from coach Rick Pitino and his track record of tournament success.

15. BYU

Incoming freshman Bruce Branch III isn’t as heralded as AJ Dybantsa was, but he’s a massive piece for the Cougars, who will be hoping to avoid the injury bug that slowed their expected NCAA Tournament run. Robert Wright will be an elite scorer with Branch. The big question for coach Kevin Young is bringing in some size to address departures in the frontcourt.

16. Purdue

The Boilermakers move on without the trio of Braden Smith, Fletcher Loyer and Trey Kaufman-Renn. No returning player scored more than guard C.J. Cox’s 8.5 points per game. Look for Purdue to lean on a recruiting class that ranks seventh nationally while blending in transfers such as former Princeton forward Caden Pierce. Coach Matt Painter has won at least 24 games in each of the past five years and will contend to do so again despite the reworked roster.

17. Miami (Fla.)

Like his ACC counterpart Ryan Odom, Jai Lucas did one of the best jobs of first-year coaches with the program making a 19-win improvement. The Hurricanes are looking to go further than just making the NCAA Tournament with Shelton Henderson and Dante Allen expected to the top scoring options. Lucas will again hit the portal but he secured an elite recruit by convincing incoming freshman Caleb Gaskins to stay home in South Florida.

18. Nebraska

To capitalize on this year’s success, Nebraska has to retain Pryce Sandfort and Braden Frager while dipping into the portal to find a new starting point guard. The Cornhuskers will bring back some size up front but will need a healthy season from former All-MAC pick Ugnius Jaruševičius. Incoming freshmen Colin Rice and Jacob Lanier could make an immediate impact.

19. Iowa

After a magical Elite Eight run, Iowa looks to maintain that momentum under second-year coach Ben McCollum while losing top scorer Bennett Stirtz. The Hawkeyes will be aggressive in the portal to find a guard to join holdovers Kael Combs, Isaia Howard and Tate Sage, and also to find a center to play alongside projected returnees Alvaro Folgueiras, Cam Manyawu and Cooper Koch.

20. Kansas

One key returner is confirmed with Bill Self deciding to stay on the bench amid health issues. There will be less drama without Darryn Peterson around, and the role of standout freshman should be handled by incoming recruit Taylen Kinney. Bryson Tiller was slated for a bigger role in the frontcourt after the surprising departure of Flory Bidunga. But it appears Tiller and guard Elmarko Jackson also may be leaving.

21. Tennessee

The elusive first Final Four remains the goal but getting back to the Elite Eight for the fourth year in a row will require Rick Barnes to bring in major additions through the portal. One already in the books is Tyler Lundblade from Belmont, who brings needed shooting range. Ralph Scott and Manny Green are two freshmen that need to have a big impact.

22. North Carolina

One big question was answered with the hiring of Michael Malone. It’s unclear how bringing in an NBA title-winning coach without experience as college head coach will shake out. But let’s assume for now that most of their returning pieces stay in place. Luka Bogavac and Jarin Stevenson are good building blocks that return for their senior season, and key recruits Dylan Ming and Maximo Adams could contribute right away. Expect there to be major moves in the portal with Chapel Hill still remaining a desired destination.

23. Louisville

Louisville has gone 51-19 in Pat Kelsey’s two years and should remain an ACC contender despite losing some key pieces, including Mikel Brown Jr. and Ryan Conwell. While there’s work to be done in the portal, the Cardinals bring back guard Adrian Wooley and former G-League guard London Johnson.

24. Wisconsin

With guard John Blackwell entering the portal, look for the Badgers to be active in adding depth and shooting to the wing rotation. What Wisconsin has is an experienced frontline led by Nolan Winter and Austin Rapp, which should lead to a different look on offense. But the pieces are in place for another top-six finish in the Big Ten.

25. VCU

The Rams were poised to have five of their top six scorers return before the announcement that Terrence Hill Jr. was departing. Even with the bad news, Phil Martelli Jr. has a solid foundation to build upon after a 28-win season. Look for guard Nyk Lewis to emerge in his sophomore season with forward Lazar Djokovic providing scoring inside . Sammy Jackson, a top-50 recruit, should be a huge addition to the lineup.

• An autopsy report found Colorado quarterback Dominiq Ponder had a blood-alcohol level more than twice the legal limit when he died in a car crash.
• His family has started the Dominiq Ponder 722 Foundation to promote responsible decision-making among young people.
• The foundation aims to provide scholarships, raise community awareness, and support children’s hospitals.

Colorado backup quarterback Dominiq Ponder had double the legal limit of alcohol in his system when he crashed his car and died in single-car accident in Boulder County March 1, according to an autopsy report obtained by USA TODAY Sports April 6.

The report states Ponder’s blood-alcohol content was 0.167 g/100 mL, more than twice the legal limit for driving under the influence in Colorado. His family hopes it can serve as a lesson for young people to make responsible decisions. They have started a foundation in honor of Ponder to promote awareness. Ponder was 23.

“If anything good can come from this loss, it’s the conversations it can start about responsible decision-making, supporting young adults, and making good choices even in ordinary moments,” Ponder’s mother, Catrina Hughes, told USA TODAY Sports. “A big part of his legacy will be to encourage young people to please make responsible choices and to have the courage to step in for their friends when one of them isn’t thinking clearly for themselves. Kids need to know that it’s OK to step in, take keys, call a ride, call a parent, speak up, do anything you can do, one small decision can save a life. Don’t be afraid even if it’s uncomfortable. A difficult conversation is easier than a lifetime of loss.”

The Boulder County Coroner’s report states Ponder’s cause of death was multiple blunt force injuries in an accident. “The deceased was a restrained driver involved in a single vehicle collision at a high rate of speed,” the report states.

Ponder lost control of his 2023 Tesla while negotiating a right-hand curve, burst through a guardrail, hit an electrical pole and rolled at least once, according to the Colorado State Patrol. The crash happened about 3 a.m. on the day before Ponder’s team opened spring football practice March 2.

The March 2 practice was going to be Ponder’s first wearing jersey No. 7, a number he earned after previously wearing No. 22. That is the name of the foundation being started in his honor – The Dominiq Ponder 722 Foundation. The GoFundMe page for it says funds raised will go directly toward scholarships for student-athletes who demonstrate resilience and character, community awareness initiatives about responsible decision-making and support for children’s hospitals.

Ponder was a popular backup quarterback at Colorado known for his big personality and smile. Colorado coach Deion Sanders delivered a eulogy about him and said he was “full of life, full of respect, hustle and hard work and integrity.”

Colorado plans to honor him with a jersey patch this season. The Buffaloes end the spring football season April 11 with an intrasquad scrimmage in Boulder.

“He was a determined student-athlete, a leader, and someone with a huge heart who fiercely loved his family, his teammates, and the game of football,” his mother said.

She hopes this news about his death will help raise awareness about choices.

“Hopefully someone will learn from this and we can save some lives.”

The Colorado athletic department also issued a statement April 6 and noted that it continues to provide support resources to those impacted by Ponder’s death, including counseling services for his teammates, coaches, and staff.

“CU Athletics remains deeply saddened by the loss of Dominiq Ponder,” the statement said. “Our thoughts continue to be with his family, his friends, and his CU football family as we all continue to process this unimaginable loss.”

Follow reporter Brent Schrotenboer @Schrotenboer. Email: bschrotenb@usatoday.com

(This story was updated to add new information.)

The NCAA men’s basketball championship game between the Michigan Wolverines and UConn Huskies will feature several players projected as first-round picks in the 2026 NBA Draft.

While top picks including AJ Dybantsa as well as Cameron Boozer and Darryn Peterson were eliminated earlier during March Madness, the Final Four saw several star-studded prospects participate. Arizona freshmen Brayden Burries and Koa Peat as well as Illinois freshman Keaton Wagler were one win short of an appearance in the title game, but several other future NBA players will play for a chance to cut down the nets.

In addition for a chance at a championship trophy, the title game between Michigan and UConn is also a wonderful opportunity to put on one more show in front of scouts during the Big Dance.

Note: Some highly-ranked players not included here who could potentially return to college include Tounde Yessoufou (Baylor), Alijah Arenas (USC), Meleek Thomas (Arkansas), Ebuka Okorie (Stanford) and Flory Bidunga (Kansas). But if these players decide to declare and stay in the draft, they could potentially warrant first-round consideration as well.

Our draft order is based on ESPN’s projected records and factors in trades, including swaps and protections.

1. Washington Wizards: AJ Dybantsa

• TEAM: BYU
• POSITION: Wing
• BORN: Massachusetts
• HEIGHT: 6-9
• DRAFT AGE: 19

The Wizards have the second-worst offense in the NBA and could instantly inject life into their offense by selecting AJ Dybantsa, the NCAA scoring champion and Julius Erving Award winner. He emphasized that point during his one game for BYU in March Madness, putting up 35 points and 10 rebounds. The Big 12 Rookie of the Year led the nation in unassisted points scored (680) by a wide margin this season, per CBB Analytics. The emerging star also had 40 points against Kansas State in the Big 12 Tournament on March 10 and averaged 28.8 points per game over his final 17 appearances. 

2. Indiana Pacers: Cameron Boozer 

• TEAM: Duke
• POSITION: Forward
• BORN: Florida
• HEIGHT: 6-9
• DRAFT AGE: 18

Duke freshman Cameron Boozer was dominant during his first NCAA season, earning national collegiate player of the year. According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, rival teams believe Boozer would be the “preferred selection” for the Pacers because of his “potential fit” alongside Pascal Siakam and Ivica Zubac. The ACC Player of the Year isn’t a human highlight reel, but he offers consistency and a diverse, impactful skill set. More importantly, he can bring a culture of winning after multiple championships in high school and an elite Duke team that made it to the Sweet 16 before a heartbreaking last-second loss.

3. Brooklyn Nets: Darryn Peterson

• TEAM: Kansas
• POSITION: Guard
• BORN: Ohio
• HEIGHT: 6-5
• DRAFT AGE: 19

While he is no longer perceived as the near-certain No. 1 overall pick that he once was due to relative inconsistency and injury issues, many scouts and evaluators feel that Darryn Peterson is the most talented player in this class. The Nets have the worst offense in the NBA and could change the course of the franchise by selecting Peterson. It is incredibly rare to find a prospect who is able to score as efficiently as Peterson did while holding a usage rate as high as his was this season. 

4. Utah Jazz: Kingston Flemings 

• TEAM: Houston
• POSITION: Guard
• BORN: Texas
• HEIGHT: 6-4
• DRAFT AGE: 19

While most project North Carolina freshman Caleb Wilson at No. 4 overall, he may not fit in Utah’s crowded frontcourt. Meanwhile, the Jazz currently have the worst defensive rating in the Western Conference and could potentially improve that by selecting Houston freshman Kingston Flemings. The All-Big 12 guard has several games when he has recorded at least three steals, notching eight against Arizona State earlier this season. He scored 42 points against No. 11 Texas Tech on Jan. 24. He helped lead Houston to the Sweet 16, and with highs as high as his were this season, it will not take long for him to hear his name called on draft night.   

5. Sacramento Kings: Caleb Wilson

• TEAM: North Carolina
• POSITION: Big
• BORN: Georgia
• HEIGHT: 6-10
• DRAFT AGE: 19

The Kings need the best player available, and that is North Carolina freshman Caleb Wilson, who unfortunately missed the NCAA Tournament with a broken thumb. Wilson, who also suffered a hand fracture earlier in the season, did more than enough to earn this placement, though. According to Bart Torvik, before the injury the All-ACC big man led the nation with 67 dunks recorded. He was also the only player under 20 years old to reach thresholds of 2.5 percent for both block and steal percentage while also notching a defensive rebound percentage above 20.0 percent.

6. Atlanta Hawks (via Pelicans): Darius Acuff Jr. 

• TEAM: Arkansas
• POSITION: Guard
• BORN: Michigan
• HEIGHT: 6-3
• DRAFT AGE: 19

The Hawks could use a guard like Arkansas freshman Darius Acuff Jr. after trading away Trae Young, using a first-round pick they received from the Pelicans. En route to the Sweet 16, the SEC Player of the Year proved he is one of the most enticing offensive prospects in recent memory. Acuff Jr. led the nation for points created (1,394) either by himself or through an assist, per CBB Analytics. He led freshmen for field goals made in transition (72) and field goals made from both the left and right side of the court. He was among the freshmen leaders in alley-oop assists (17) as well. He has significant defensive deficiencies but playing alongside Dyson Daniels would help cover that problem. 

7. Dallas Mavericks: Keaton Wagler 

• TEAM: Illinois
• POSITION: Wing
• BORN: Kansas
• HEIGHT: 6-6
• DRAFT AGE: 19

The Mavericks have the worst offensive rating in the Western Conference and could benefit from a player like Illinois standout Keaton Wagler. The 19-year-old guard played a crucial role to help the Fighting Illini earn a spot in the Final Four, where he recorded 20 points and 8 rebounds against UConn in the national semifinals. The freshman also dropped 25 points in the Elite Eight. He projects as one of the best 3-point shooters in this class, shooting 39.7 percent from beyond the arc as a freshman. while connecting on as many as nine 3-pointers in a game. The Big Ten Rookie of the Year has athletic limitations but is a cerebral basketball player who is also averaging 5.1 rebounds and 4.2 assists per game this season. 

8. Memphis Grizzlies: Yaxel Lendeborg

• TEAM: Michigan
• POSITION: Forward
• BORN: New Jersey
• HEIGHT: 6-9
• DRAFT AGE: 23

The Grizzlies could add to their rebuilding core after trading away Jaren Jackson Jr. by selecting Yaxel Lendeborg, who has shown on his way to the men’s collegiate national championship game that he is perhaps the most NBA-ready player in this draft class. The Big Ten Player of the Year offers a bit of everything on both sides of the ball and has silenced skeptics who were unsure how his game would scale after transferring from mid-major UAB to high-major Michigan. The Grizzlies have drafted players with similar trajectories like Jaylen Wells and Cedric Coward.

9. Chicago Bulls: Brayden Burries 

• TEAM: Arizona
• POSITION: Guard
• BORN: California
• HEIGHT: 6-4
• DRAFT AGE: 20

Arizona freshman Brayden Burries was an exciting prospect to watch during the Big Dance, making it all the way to the Final Four and dropping 23 points against Arkansas. He had two breakout games in January, which helped solidify his draft stock. But the All-Big 12 guard continued to display his tantalizing talent, scoring 31 points with seven rebounds and five steals against Colorado on March 7 and 20 points with 12 rebounds and five assists during a victory against No. 14 Kansas on Feb. 28. He has proven productivity, and he is able to defend, relocate, move the ball and make 3-pointers off the dribble. Burries would make a great pick for whatever new executives take over the front office for the Bulls.

10. Milwaukee Bucks: Mikel Brown Jr. 

• TEAM: Louisville
• POSITION: Guard
• BORN: Florida
• HEIGHT: 6-5
• DRAFT AGE: 20

The Milwaukee Bucks need to simply draft the best player available with whatever pick they have and will likely keep Louisville floor general Mikel Brown Jr. highlighted on their big board. The All-ACC guard has deep shooting range and was among the freshmen leaders in 3-pointers made from beyond 25 feet (27) this year, per CBB Analytics. Brown was averaging 29.2 points per game over his last five appearances, including 45 points against NC State on Feb. 9, while hitting 10 shots from beyond the arc, before an injury on Feb. 28 forced him to miss March Madness.

11. Golden State Warriors: Labaron Philon 

• TEAM: Alabama
• POSITION: Guard
• BORN: Alabama
• HEIGHT: 6-4
• DRAFT AGE: 20

The Warriors could still use more reliable players in the backcourt and could find a fairly compelling player in Alabama sophomore Labaron Philon. Even though the All-SEC guard was not playing at 100 percent during March Madness due to injury issues, he played well in the tournament, recording 35 points during a loss against Michigan. He also notched 29 points in his first game and 12 assists in his second. The guard averaged 22.0 points per game, and he improved his 3-point shooting from 31.5 percent as a freshman to 39.9 percent as a sophomore, while also managing 5.0 assists per game in the process.

12. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Clippers): Hannes Steinbach

• TEAM: Washington
• POSITION: Big
• BORN: Germany
• HEIGHT: 6-11
• DRAFT AGE: 20

After winning the 2025 NBA Finals, the Oklahoma City Thunder are projected to add even more lottery-caliber talent in the 2026 NBA Draft. They could use it to potentially replace Isaiah Hartenstein by drafting a younger German big man: Hannes Steinbach. While his team missed the tournament, the All-Big Ten post is an instinctive rebounder with great hands, including an absurd 24 rebounds against USC on March 4. Additionally, the center is one of the more prolific pick-and-roll finishers in college basketball. He shined during the FIBA U19 World Cup, and scouts love that he is a smart basketball player who can make great reads.

13. Portland Trail Blazers: Nate Ament 

• TEAM: Tennessee
• POSITION: Wing
• BORN: Virginia
• HEIGHT: 6-10
• DRAFT AGE: 19

After a relatively slow and inefficient start to the season, Tennessee freshman Nate Ament started to realize some of his lofty expectations. The freshman averaged 21.6 points per game, while shooting 38.9 percent on 3-pointers, during a 13-game stretch before an injury against Alabama on Feb. 28. The All-SEC forward then had 27 points (4-of-6 on 3-pointers) with eight rebounds, four assists, three blocks and a steal against Auburn on March 12. He was not as efficient during March Madness, but it will only take one team to fall in love with Ament, and that team is almost certainly picking in the lottery.

14. Miami Heat: Koa Peat 

• TEAM: Arizona
• POSITION: Forward
• BORN: Arizona
• HEIGHT: 6-8
• DRAFT AGE: 19

The Miami Heat have drafted several prospects known for their athleticism, which means a player like Arizona forward Koa Peat will probably have some appeal to the organization. Peat is an ideal match for this franchise given his versatility as a playmaking forward. Arizona played at a significantly faster pace (3.9 extra possessions) when Peat was on the floor relative to when he was not, per CBB Analytics, which would fit very well with Miami’s fastest-paced offense in the NBA. The All-Big 12 forward just needs a jumper to carve out regular minutes as a high-impact pro. 

15. Charlotte Hornets: Braylon Mullins 

• TEAM: Connecticut
• POSITION: Wing
• BORN: Indiana
• HEIGHT: 6-6
• DRAFT AGE: 19

Braylon Mullins, a five-star recruit and former McDonald’s All-American, was a breakout star in the NCAA men’s basketball tournament after hitting one of the most improbable 3-pointers in March Madness history. Mullins continued to show a winning mentality, helping the Huskies earn a spot in the national championship game. The Big East All-Freshman wing shot 40.7 percent on 3-pointers during his first 18 games in the starting lineup. He is a useful off-ball threat, which gives him an immediately practical role at the next level. 

16. Memphis Grizzlies (via Magic): Joshua Jefferson 

• TEAM: Iowa State
• POSITION: Forward
• BORN: Nevada
• HEIGHT: 6-9
• DRAFT AGE: 22

A few years ago, research indicated that the Grizzlies tend to value a few statistical similarities in their draftees: Efficient shot selection, added value beyond scoring and defensive playmaking. For the second year in a row, the Iowa State forward was an impactful dribble-pass-shoot forward who met many of the qualifications that led Memphis to find players who spent many years on their roster. The All-Big 12 forward got injured during the first round of the tournament, but Iowa State still earned a spot in the Sweet 16.

17. Toronto Raptors: Bennett Stirtz 

• TEAM: Iowa
• POSITION: Guard
• BORN: Missouri
• HEIGHT: 6-4
• DRAFT AGE: 22

The Raptors could use another guard and should have Bennett Stirtz on their priority list. After transferring from Division II to a mid-major and then to a high-major program, he is at the top of the class in creating his own shot off the dribble in isolation or the pick-and-roll. The All-Big Ten guard can also finish plays from dribble handoffs. His play during March Madness, which included 24 points against Illinois and 20 points against Nebraska, earned a spot in the Elite Eight. The Raptors play at a slow pace, which would translate well for Stirtz, who did the same at Iowa. 

18. Charlotte Hornets (via Suns): Jayden Quaintance

• TEAM: Kentucky
• POSITION: Big
• BORN: Ohio
• HEIGHT: 6-9
• DRAFT AGE: 18

Jayden Quaintance recorded just one start during his sophomore campaign as he recovered from a torn ACL, meniscus and fractured knee. The big man is still one of the youngest players in this class, but he has shown flashes during his time at Arizona State and Kentucky. When healthy, he is arguably the most talented defender in this draft class and could help a team that desperately needs frontcourt help, like the Hornets. But health may cause some concern for evaluators.

19. Oklahoma City Thunder (via 76ers): Karim López

• TEAM: International (Australia)
• POSITION: Forward
• BORN: Mexico
• HEIGHT: 6-8
• DRAFT AGE: 19

The Thunder have drafted multiple players from Australia’s NBL, including Josh Giddey. They could dip into this well again by selecting Karim López with their pick from the Philadelphia 76ers. While the Mexican-born forward still needs some development, he is physically gifted and widely seen as the top prospect from this class currently playing overseas. He exploded for 32 points (11-of-13 FG) with eight rebounds, two blocks and one steal against Melbourne on Jan. 30. Even if he is a draft-and-stash player, that is ideal for a team with a rotation as crowded as the Thunder.

20. San Antonio Spurs (via Hawks): Aday Mara 

• TEAM: Michigan
• POSITION: Big
• BORN: Spain
• HEIGHT: 7-3
• DRAFT AGE: 21

After leading his team to the NCAA championship game, Michigan center Aday Mara became one of the prospects who helped himself the most during March Madness. The 7-foot-3 big man, who transferred from UCLA, is a fantastic rim protector. Opponents only attempted 20.9 percent of their field goals at the rim when the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year was on the court, per CBB Analytics, which ranks near lowest among all NCAA players. He can also pass well, finding some awesome outlet looks in transition and at the rim. Especially in short spurts, Mara would make an excellent backup to Victor Wembanyama. 

21. Detroit Pistons (via Timberwolves): Christian Anderson 

• TEAM: Texas Tech
• POSITION: Guard
• BORN: Georgia
• HEIGHT: 6-3
• DRAFT AGE: 20

While they are one of the best teams in the league this season, the Pistons are still struggling from the perimeter and could use more talented 3-point shooters on their roster. A simple fix would be drafting Texas Tech sophomore Christian Anderson, who had the most unassisted 3-pointers (61) among high-major players, per CBB Analytics. After moving from the two-guard to point guard, the All-Big 12 Most Improved Player recorded more than twice as many assists per 100 possessions as a sophomore compared to when he was a freshman. 

22. New York Knicks: Chris Cenac Jr. 

• TEAM: Houston
• POSITION: Big
• BORN: Louisiana
• HEIGHT: 6-11
• DRAFT AGE: 19

It was an up-and-down season for former five-star recruit and McDonald’s All-American Chris Cenac Jr. at Houston. While he still remains a candidate to return to college and improve his draft stock for the 2027 NBA Draft, Cenac Jr. got hot at the perfect time. During his first game in the Big Dance, the big man recorded a season-high 18 rebounds, while also knocking down a 3-pointer and grabbing a steal. Then in the Round of 32, he showed off more scoring with some impressive cuts to the basket, dropping 17 points against Texas A&M. He was quieter in the Sweet 16 but still managed 10 rebounds. 

23. Denver Nuggets: Thomas Haugh 

• TEAM: Florida
• POSITION: Wing
• BORN: Pennsylvania
• HEIGHT: 6-9
• DRAFT AGE: 22

After winning a national championship with Florida last season, Thomas Haugh was instantly regarded as one of the most interesting players who elected to return to college. The All-SEC forward had one of the top motors in the NCAA this season before an early elimination from March Madness. While he did not score efficiently in a set offense this year, he does not need the ball in his hands very often to make a difference on the floor for his team. He can serve as a glue guy for a contending team looking to win an NBA title like the Nuggets. 

24. Atlanta Hawks (via Cavaliers): Patrick Ngongba II

• TEAM: Duke
• POSITION: Big
• BORN: Virginia
• HEIGHT: 6-11
• DRAFT AGE: 20

Many teams could use a big man like Patrick Ngongba II, who is an above-average passer for his position. His assist rate is the highest among underclassmen listed at 6-foot-11 or taller, per Bart Torvik, and he is at the top of his game when passing to a driving perimeter player. The big man, who helped Duke earn a spot in the Elite Eight, is a big-bodied prospect who can carve out space as one of the more prolific cutters in college basketball. He is on an encouraging development track, displaying legitimate year-over-year improvement from his freshman to sophomore campaign.

25. Philadelphia 76ers (via Rockets): Allen Graves 

• TEAM: Santa Clara
• POSITION: Forward
• BORN: Louisiana
• HEIGHT: 6-9
• DRAFT AGE: 20

One of the most under-the-radar prospects in all of college basketball this season was Santa Clara freshman Allen Graves, who was nearly a March Madness hero. It was hard not to notice the WCC Rookie of the Year and Sixth Man of the Year after he scored 30 points with 13 rebounds, four assists and two steals Feb. 7 against Washington State. The only players under 21 years old who currently held a higher box plus-minus, via Bart Torvik, were Cameron Boozer and Caleb Wilson.

26. Los Angeles Lakers: Morez Johnson Jr.

• TEAM: Michigan
• POSITION: Big
• BORN: Illinois
• HEIGHT: 6-9
• DRAFT AGE: 20

Morez Johnson Jr. is one of the best two-way players in the NCAA. He is a crucial part of the Michigan identity this season, leading his team to an appearance in the NCAA championship game, and has thrived since transferring to the Wolverines from Illinois. Johnson’s shooting form at the free throw line looks good, and he scores well near the rim, especially when cutting to the basket. The former FIBA U-19 Team USA standout and All-Big Ten big man is a trustworthy defensive playmaker, too, and should find minutes at the next level.

27. Boston Celtics: Cameron Carr 

• TEAM: Baylor
• POSITION: Wing
• BORN: Minnesota
• HEIGHT: 6-5
• DRAFT AGE: 21

One of the players who improved his draft stock the most this season was Baylor junior Cameron Carr. The All-Big 12 wing brings athleticism and shooting and, per Bart Torvik, he was the only player to make at least 40 field goals that were dunks and more than 60 field goals that were 3-pointers this season. Baylor outscored opponents by an additional 28.5 points per 100 possessions when he was on the floor relative to when he was not, via CBB Analytics, which ranked as the fourth-most of any high-major player in the NCAA. 

28. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Pistons): Tyler Tanner 

• TEAM: Vanderbilt
• POSITION: Guard
• BORN: Tennessee
• HEIGHT: 6-0
• DRAFT AGE: 20

It is unusual to find a 6-foot sophomore projected in the first round of a mock draft, but if there were ever a player who has earned that kind of praise should he decide to turn pro after this season, it’s Tyler Tanner. Despite his size, the All-SEC guard found meaningful ways to contribute on both sides of the floor. He can score efficiently, dunk, block shots, steal the ball, and he is more than serviceable as a floor general capable of earning rotation minutes for a team like the Timberwolves. Tanner could also return to school but should earn serious first-round buzz if he turns pro.  

29. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Spurs): Dailyn Swain  

• TEAM: Texas
• POSITION: Wing
• BORN: Ohio
• HEIGHT: 6-8
• DRAFT AGE: 21

After transferring from Xavier to Texas during the offseason and then leading his team to the Sweet 16, Dailyn Swain became one of the more intriguing breakout players in college basketball. The All-SEC forward is versatile and contributed a little bit of everything for the Longhorns on both sides of the ball, scoring well both in the paint and on fastbreaks. Another element that is notably compelling is that Swain is efficient one-on-one in isolation against his defenders. 

30. Dallas Mavericks (via Thunder): Amari Allen 

• TEAM: Alabama
• POSITION: Wing
• BORN: Wisconsin
• HEIGHT: 6-7
• DRAFT AGE: 20

Alabama’s Amari Allen is a 6-foot-7 freshman who averaged 12.9 points, 6.9 rebounds and 2.9 assists with 1.7 “stocks” (combined steals and blocks), while shooting 39.5 percent on 3-pointers on 4.8 shots per game for the Crimson Tide during SEC conference play. The SEC All-Freshman wing is a good connective piece who plays hard, cares about winning and knows how to make the right play. Despite a weak showing against Michigan in the Sweet 16, he is still someone who could earn fringe first-round consideration.