As the 2027 NBA Draft approaches, teams are increasingly considering seasoned players who have demonstrated their skills in the NCAA. Noteworthy examples include Yaxel Lendborg, a lottery pick in the 2026 draft after six years in college, highlighting a trend of veteran players making a significant impact in recent drafts.
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Recently, three players were granted a fifth year of NCAA eligibility, allowing them to compete during the 2026-27 season, which could enhance their prospects for the upcoming draft.
Denzel Aberdeen, who helped Florida secure a national championship in 2025, transferred to Kentucky for the 2025-26 season. There, he averaged 13.5 points, 3.4 assists, and 2.5 rebounds per game, shooting 43.3% from the field and 36.3% from three-point range. After transferring back to Florida, he was granted a temporary injunction that secures his eligibility to play for the Gators. At Florida, he will be competing alongside other NBA prospects, such as Thomas Haugh and Rueben Chinyelu, but could still perform well enough to attract attention from NBA scouts.
Tamin Lipsey, who played for the Indiana Pacers' Summer League team after going undrafted in 2026, is also returning to Iowa State for a fifth season. Across four seasons with the Cyclones, Lipsey started 137 games, averaging 13.5 points, 5.1 assists, 3.9 rebounds, and 2.3 steals per game while shooting 45.9% from the field and 31.6% from three-point range in the 2025-26 season. Despite concerns over his age, size, and shooting ability, he remains a notable player to watch.
Tre White, another undrafted player from the 2026 class, signed with the Miami Heat for the Summer League. Now returning to Kansas for the 2026-27 season, White played alongside top 2026 draft prospect Tyran Stokes last year. He averaged 13.5 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.8 assists while shooting 45% from the field and 40.3% from beyond the arc. With a strong performance this season, White could position himself for a late selection in the 2027 NBA Draft.