As the 2026-27 college basketball season approaches, a new group of prospects is set to make their mark ahead of the 2027 NBA Draft. Although the 2027 draft class may not have the star power of previous years, it still features a wealth of talent, and changes to the lottery odds could significantly impact team selections.

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1. New Orleans Pelicans: Tyran Stokes, Kansas

The New Orleans Pelicans leap six spots to secure the No. 1 pick, selecting Kansas wing Tyran Stokes. Stokes is noted for his size at 6-7, athleticism, and strength, positioning him favorably amidst uncertainty about top talent in the class.

2. Dallas Mavericks: Stefan Joksimovic, Baskonia

The Dallas Mavericks also jump six spots to take Baskonia guard Stefan Joksimovic. A standout at the FIBA U18 EuroBasket, Joksimovic's size at 6-7 and skill set, including passing and shooting, make him a strong candidate for a top pick.

3. Houston Rockets (via Nets): Jordan Smith Jr., Arkansas

The Rockets use their valuable draft asset to select Arkansas five-star recruit Jordan Smith Jr. Despite concerns about his size as a combo guard at 6-2, Smith's 6-foot-9 wingspan and versatility make him a desirable choice.

4. Washington Wizards: Caleb Holt, Arizona

The Wizards, fresh from acquiring the No. 1 pick in a previous draft, select Arizona player Caleb Holt. At 6-5 and 200 pounds, Holt offers defensive prowess and offensive skills, appealing as a potential two-way player.

5. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Clippers): Bruce Branch III, BYU

The Thunder capitalize on their Clippers’ asset to draft BYU wing Bruce Branch, a 6-7 player whose ability to score at various levels will be crucial for his development this season.

6. Memphis Grizzlies: Hugo Yimga-Moukouri, Nanterre

The Grizzlies choose Hugo Yimga-Moukouri, a promising international prospect at 6-8. His agility and offensive contributions in a pro league at a young age highlight his potential.

7. Chicago Bulls: Motiejus Krivas, Arizona

The Bulls opt for Motiejus Krivas, a 7-2 center from Arizona. Known for his shot-blocking and mobility, Krivas has the potential to become a significant player in the NBA if developed properly.

8. Atlanta Hawks (via Bucks): Anthony Thompson, Ohio State

The Hawks select Ohio State’s Anthony Thompson, a 6-8 forward recognized for his scoring ability, having averaged 24.0 points per game in high school.

9. Orlando Magic: Braylon Mullins, UConn

The Magic take UConn sharpshooter Braylon Mullins, regarded as the top returning player in the class. Mullins is expected to improve his perimeter shooting, crucial for the team’s needs.

10. San Antonio Spurs (via Hawks): Thomas Haugh, Florida

The Spurs pick Thomas Haugh, a versatile forward from Florida. With significant contributions in his junior season, Haugh's skill set makes him a valuable addition to the Spurs’ lineup.

11. Charlotte Hornets: Amari Allen, Alabama

The Hornets select Amari Allen, who had a strong freshman year with Alabama, showcasing scoring and rebounding versatility.

12. Sacramento Kings: Cameron Williams, Duke

The Kings pick Duke forward Cameron Williams, a promising prospect with notable size and athleticism, despite questions regarding his immediate impact.

13. Golden State Warriors: Malachi Moreno, Kentucky

The Warriors choose 7-foot Malachi Moreno, projected to be a solid collegiate big man who can contribute on both ends of the court.

14. Memphis Grizzlies (via Lakers): Dame Sarr, Duke

The Grizzlies reselect 6-8 wing Dame Sarr from Duke, hoping for a breakout season to elevate his draft stock after a lackluster year.

15. Houston Rockets (via Suns): Ivan Kharchenkov, Arizona

The Rockets pick Ivan Kharchenkov, a 6-7 player capable of versatile contributions, including scoring and playmaking.

16. Indiana Pacers: Patrick Ngongba II, Duke

The Pacers take Patrick Ngongba II, a big man with unique skills who has room for improvement but offers potential to strengthen the frontcourt.

17. Portland Trail Blazers: Tounde Yessoufou, St. John’s

The Trail Blazers select Tounde Yessoufou, a talented prospect looking to improve his decision-making and impact after a strong freshman season.

18. Charlotte Hornets (via Heat): Dylan Mingo, Baylor

The Hornets pick Dylan Mingo, a combo guard with potential, returning after an injury-affected campaign.

19. Memphis Grizzlies (via Lakers): Matt Able, North Carolina

The Grizzlies choose Matt Able, a guard with scoring and versatility who could see improved production in his second collegiate year.

20. Brooklyn Nets (via Rockets): Baba Oladotun, Maryland

The Nets draft Baba Oladotun, a 6-10 wing who needs to develop but has shown promise as a scorer and defender.

21. LA Clippers (via Raptors): Quentin Coleman, Illinois

The Clippers select Quentin Coleman, a 6-4 guard expected to thrive in a system designed to maximize his talents.

22. Utah Jazz (via Cavaliers): Rueben Chinyelu, Florida

The Jazz opt for Rueben Chinyelu, a 6-11 center known for his rebounding and shot-blocking ability.

23. Phoenix Suns (via Timberwolves): Billy Richmond III, Arkansas

The Suns choose Billy Richmond III, an athletic wing who will need to improve his shooting to solidify his position in the NBA.

24. Detroit Pistons: Trey McKenney, Michigan

The Pistons take Trey McKenney, who had a productive season despite being overshadowed by his teammates.

25. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Nuggets): Colben Landrew, UConn

The Thunder select Colben Landrew, a physically strong player who could add depth to their wing positions.

26. Philadelphia 76ers: Juke Harris, Tennessee

The 76ers draft Juke Harris, a scoring wing capable of impacting games at the collegiate level.

27. Boston Celtics: David Mirkovic, Illinois

The Celtics pick David Mirkovic, whose solid freshman performance has positioned him as a noteworthy player.

28. Brooklyn Nets (via Knicks): Luigi Suigo, Villanova

The Nets grab Luigi Suigo, a physically imposing player whose skills will be keenly observed at Villanova.

29. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Spurs): Austin Goosby, Texas

The Thunder select Austin Goosby, an athletic wing aiming to make a significant impact this season.

30. Toronto Raptors (via Thunder): Jason Crowe Jr., Missouri

The Raptors conclude the first round with Jason Crowe Jr., known for his scoring abilities, who must refine his all-around game.