The 2025-26 college basketball season has officially tipped off, marking the beginning of the journey for a fresh crop of NBA hopefuls. To kick off the new cycle, CBS Sports has released its first NBA Mock Draft of the season, offering an early glimpse at the top prospects expected to shape the 2026 NBA Draft. This initial mock draft largely mirrors the outlet’s big board rankings, focusing purely on player talent without factoring in the complexities of team needs or draft order, which remain fluid this far from the draft date.
It’s important to note that the landscape is still wide open. At this stage, only a handful of players—perhaps four or five—can confidently claim lottery pick status. For the vast majority, their draft fates will be determined by their performance throughout the upcoming college season. This season will be critical for prospects to refine their skills, showcase their potential, and solidify their standing among NBA scouts and executives.
Here’s a detailed look at the top 30 prospects CBS Sports has spotlighted, along with brief profiles and projected draft positions based on the current Tankathon draft order.
**1. Darryn Peterson (Kansas, PG, 6-6, 205 lbs, Freshman)** Topping the list is Darryn Peterson, the highest-ranked recruit from last year’s class. Peterson is a uniquely sized guard who combines length, strength, and playmaking ability. His size (6-foot-6) and skill set make him an intriguing prospect, potentially the best domestic guard to enter the draft in recent years. If he can develop consistent shot-making at Kansas, Peterson’s ceiling may exceed expectations. Currently projected to be selected by the Brooklyn Nets.
**2. AJ Dybantsa (BYU, SF, 6-9, 215 lbs, Freshman)** AJ Dybantsa was a dominant recruiting presence before being edged out by Peterson. Standing 6-foot-9 with a 7-foot wingspan, Dybantsa is a versatile jumbo wing who blends athleticism, defensive range, and scoring ability. His multi-level offensive game and ability to create shots on demand make him a strong candidate for the No. 1 pick. He is currently linked with the Atlanta Hawks via New Orleans.
**3. Cameron Boozer (Duke, PF, 6-9, 250 lbs, Freshman)** Boozer brings a remarkable high school resume, having won every championship he competed for over four years. His size and skill suggest he could be among the best freshmen nationally and offers a high floor for long-term success. Boozer is projected to go to the Washington Wizards.
**4. Nate Ament (Tennessee, PF, 6-10, 207 lbs, Freshman)** Ament is less polished but boasts an impressive combination of size, fluidity, and athleticism. Though early in his development, his potential is significant, and a strong college season could propel him into the top tier of prospects. Currently, he is pegged for the Indiana Pacers.
**5. Mikel Brown (Louisville, PG, 6-4, 190 lbs, Freshman)** Brown is a skilled point guard who gained size late in his development and impressed at the U19 World Cup with USA Basketball. His vision, passing, and left-handed playmaking stand out, though defensive consistency and physical strength remain areas for improvement. The Utah Jazz currently hold his projected pick.
**6. Caleb Wilson (North Carolina, PF, 6-10, 215 lbs, Senior)** A senior with notable defensive upside, Wilson is an athletic and wiry forward known for shot-blocking and defensive versatility. Offensively, questions linger about his consistency and creation, though early preseason indications at UNC have been positive. The Dallas Mavericks are linked with him.
**7. Darius Acuff (Arkansas, PG, 6-3, 190 lbs, Freshman)** Acuff was a dynamic high school lead guard, known for his confidence and ability to create shots. Although NBA enthusiasm is more muted, his strength, length, and competitive edge make him a prospect with intriguing “it” factor. He is projected to be selected by the Sacramento Kings.
**8. Jayden Quaintance (Kentucky, C, 6-10, 255 lbs, Sophomore)** Despite being just 17 last year, Quaintance