2026 NBA Draft Coverage
The 2026 NBA Draft is set to begin Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET. The league is buzzing with recent news about Giannis Antetokounmpo’s trade to the Miami Heat. With the Washington Wizards holding the No. 1 pick, the debate continues between choosing BYU’s AJ Dybantsa or Kansas’ Darryn Peterson. Additional top prospects include Duke’s Cameron Boozer and North Carolina’s Caleb Wilson.
Join The Athletic’s NBA staff for live analysis, news, and insights as the draft unfolds.
Broadcast Information:
- Time: 8 p.m. ET
- TV: ABC, ESPN, ESPN Unlimited
- Streaming: Fubo
Seeing Hubert Davis back at the Draft
Caleb Wilson’s former coach, Hubert Davis, was spotted at the draft. This highlights Wilson’s impressive performance in a preseason exhibition where he outshined AJ Dybantsa, securing 22 points and showing strong all-around skills. Despite a season-ending injury in February, Wilson remains one of UNC’s top players and invited Davis to Brooklyn.
John Wall at Wizards Watch Party
John Wall, the last No. 1 pick by the Wizards in 2010, attended the watch party in DC. His advice to the new pick: “Embrace the community. Make sure you touch the people and let them know you’re normal just like they are.”
Draft Predictions and Odds
The odds strongly favor AJ Dybantsa to be the top pick. According to sportsbooks, Dybantsa’s odds have increased significantly over time.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver highlighted increased interest in the league, noting record attendance and viewership this year, particularly driven by social media engagement.
Expansion Plans for the NBA
Silver confirmed considering expansion in the 2028-2029 season, with Las Vegas and Seattle as potential cities. A decision is expected by the end of the calendar year.
Lottery System Changes
Silver addressed changes to the lottery system, emphasizing a commitment to reduce incentives for teams to perform poorly. The recent reforms aim to improve the competitive landscape by preventing teams from deliberately underperforming.
As fans gather at The Anthem in SW D.C. for the Wizards’ Draft Party, excitement builds with hopes of AJ Dybantsa joining the team, seen as a crucial addition.
Mavericks’ Draft Strategy
Speculations about Nate Ament being a top target for the Mavericks at No. 9 persist. With Dusty May as the new coach, Michigan players such as Morez Johnson and Aday Mara are also considered strong candidates.
Nets’ Potential Moves
The Nets are exploring options for their No. 6 pick, with Mikel Brown Jr. and Nate Ament as possibilities. Discussions on possibly trading back in the lottery are also underway.
Hawks’ Active Trade Discussions
League sources confirm that the Atlanta Hawks are actively engaging in trade discussions surrounding their No. 8 pick. Arizona’s Brayden Burries might be a target depending on the team’s draft position.
Prospects are poised and ready in Brooklyn, awaiting their selection as this exciting NBA Draft commences.