NBA Draft: Darryn Peterson, Cameron Boozer, AJ Dybantsa Vie for Top Spots
The excitement for the upcoming 2026 NBA Draft is building rapidly as college basketball prepares to tip off its season. Scouts are closely monitoring a trio of standout prospects: Darryn Peterson, Cameron Boozer, and AJ Dybantsa. Each has shown exceptional skill in preseason games, creating a competitive race for the coveted No. 1 draft pick.
Prospects to Watch in the 2026 NBA Draft
As the new season begins, these three players have emerged as front-runners in the draft conversation:
- Darryn Peterson: Known for his polished perimeter scoring, Peterson excelled in a game against the top-10 Louisville team, scoring 26 points in 25 minutes. Scouts are eager to see how he performs while leading the Kansas offense.
- Cameron Boozer: The son of former NBA All-Star Carlos Boozer, he dominated both UCF and Tennessee, accumulating impressive statistics including 33 points and 12 rebounds in one game. Scouts are curious about his defensive capabilities at the center position.
- AJ Dybantsa: With a powerful physical presence, Dybantsa showcased his skills with 30 points and 19 shots against Nebraska. However, scouts want to see improvements in his defensive play and shooting technique.
Scouting Analysis
Many scouts believe that at least two of these players will secure spots in postseason All-America teams. The competition amongst them is fierce, and all three are well-prepared to make their mark in college basketball.
Potential Drawbacks
Despite their strengths, each player faces certain questions:
- For Peterson, efficiency remains a concern as he transitions to leading his college team.
- Dybantsa needs to improve defensively and enhance his shooting range.
- Boozer’s potential is questioned regarding his flexibility and adaptability against larger opponents.
Rounding Out the 2026 Class
While the focus is on Peterson, Boozer, and Dybantsa, other players are also generating interest. The Arizona Wildcats are attracting attention due to their promising freshman class, which includes:
- Koa Peat: A forward with significant accolades, he has shown potential as a shot creator but needs to work on his shooting range.
- Brayden Burries: A strong guard expected to be a key player next to Jaden Bradley, known for his physicality and scoring ability.
- Dwayne Aristode: A versatile 6-8 wing with untapped potential after missing his senior season with an injury.
ACC Prospects of Note
The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) is brimming with talent beyond the notable recruits. NC State’s Matt Able has shown promise as a combo guard, while Paul McNeil’s shooting abilities make him a potential draft choice. Additionally, Virginia’s international players, Thijs de Ridder and Johann Grunloh, could also have strong drafts next year, thanks to their unique skill sets and backgrounds.
Looking Ahead
With the college basketball season set to begin, the competition for next year’s NBA Draft is heating up. Scouts are eager to see how these young talents perform and which players will separate themselves as franchise cornerstones. The race for the top picks has begun, and the 2026 NBA Draft promises to be a thrilling event for basketball fans.
