標籤: Madness

Manchester United Forward Matheus Cunha has become one of the faces of the club’s revival this season. Now, the Brazilian media is pushing for that situation to continue at the World Cup.

Brazilian journalist Fernando Callas used a column Earth There’s no argument to be made that Cunha should start for Brazil under Carlo Ancelotti. This will also apply if Neymar is left on the bench.

This stance says a lot about how Cunha’s first year at Old Trafford is viewed at home.

Callas said that the attacker reached Manchester United surrounded by suspicion. Despite his impressive performances at Wolves, there were concerns about whether he would be able to maintain that level. This was especially true A club that exerts far more pressure and scrutiny.

According to the journalist, Cunha has responded to those concerns strongly.

“No Brazilian attacking player has had a better season this year than Matheus Cunha”Kallas said.

He also wrote that forward became “One of the pillars of United’s rebirth, along with compatriot Casemiro” After helping the club achieve third place. This was after fears of relegation the previous season.

The article also highlights Cunha’s influence in decisive matches. Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, Liverpool and Aston Villa are all referred to as games where the Brazilian scored important goals or contributions.

Kallas pointed to the numbers as further evidence. Cunha scored 10 league goals this season after scoring 15 goals the previous campaign with Wolves. None of them were penalties.

For a player operating between midfield and attack, those figures are seen as typical Premier League production in Brazil. And this has happened consistently all season.

The Neymar debate takes center stage

Fernando Callas made the Neymar debate central to this article.

“This column is about Matheus Cunha, with many suggesting he should be benched to make room for Neymar.” He has written.

Then the journalist strongly supported ‘Selfless Manchester United player’ To retain his place in Brazil’s starting team.

“Regardless of who is behind him, Cunha was one of the best players of the season in the best league in the world. The idea of ​​not having him in Brazil’s starting team seems like complete madness to me.”

Of course, Neymar’s current physical condition has also been criticized. Callas wrote that there are “numerous inconsistencies” surrounding the veteran’s call-up and suggested he may have already been re-injured.

Why does Cunha fit into Ancelotti’s Brazil?

Fernando Callas also explained why he thinks Cunha is a good fit for Ancelotti’s tactical ideas.

The columnist praised the Manchester United player’s ability to carry the ball under pressure and carry the team forward in difficult moments.

“That’s an ant-man’s buffoon. Engine and escape valve,” Kailas wrote. “Basically, when the team is under pressure, you give the ball to Cunha and he will do everything possible to take it 10 to 15 meters closer to the box.”

The comparison then became even more interesting from a Premier League perspective.

Callas argued that Cunha could play a role similar to that performed by Jude Bellingham for Ancelotti at Real Madrid. He also claimed that the Brazilian movement could create a ‘perfect combination’ with Vinicius Junior.

Cunha arrived at Old Trafford with doubts over his fee and his potential at one of the biggest clubs in the world.

After one season, respected voices in Brazil are openly campaigning for him to be named ahead of Neymar for the national team.

newcastle united FC Porto have been linked with interest in winger Oscar Pietuszewski in recent weeks, but the player’s camp now appear keen to calm expectations surrounding a summer transfer.

The 17-year-old has enjoyed a remarkable start to life in Portugal since arriving from Jagiellonia in January. Pietuszewski already has 15 appearances, three goals and two assists for Porto, helping the club win the Portuguese title before he was even 18 years old.

Those performances immediately put him on the radar of several European clubs. Newcastle United were recently nominated Between the sides monitoring the winger, with manchester united, liverpool, manchester city And chelsea.

However, according to the player’s agent, an immediate move away from Porto would not make sense.

“Complete madness”

As relayed to ball In Portugal, agent Mariusz Piekarski insisted that Pietuszewski planned to stay at Porto next season despite the increased attention.

“I think he will stay at Porto for another season,” Piekarski said. “There remains a lot of interest, but we have no plans to change clubs. That would be complete madness.”

The agent made it clear that the current priority is development rather than a quick transfer to one of the richest clubs in Europe.

“Oscar feels very good in Porto. He is happy and gaining experience.” he explained.

“Maybe in a year, after another season in the Portuguese league and playing in the UEFA Champions League, there will be a re-evaluation and he can think about what to do next.”

Piekarski also stressed that there is no specific time frame for the departure.

“Still, it doesn’t necessarily mean that he’ll have to go in a year. Maybe in two years.”

Porto is seen as the ideal next step

Reports in Portugal have already stated that the club are preparing a new contract for Oscar Pietuszewski when he turns 18 on May 20. The deal is expected to extend his stay until 2031 and could also include an increase to his current €60m (£52m) release clause.

From the player’s camp, there seems to be complete agreement with that viewpoint.

Pietuszewski has quickly become a key player under manager Francesco Farioli, his aggressive dribbling and direct style making him one of the breakout stories in Portugal during the second half of the season.

The winger puts up strong attacking numbers on average, while also showing impressive intensity on the ball. That combination has helped to increase interest from clubs like Newcastle.

School exams after graduation ceremony

Piekarski also revealed an unusual detail from the player’s recent program after Porto secured the league title.

The young player went back to Poland immediately after the ceremony to complete his secondary school exams.

“There were fears about how school, final exams and the Oscars would combine everything with FC Porto, but everything worked out well,” The agent said.

“They played at 9:30 pm on a Sunday and had final exams in the morning. I booked a jet to Modlin airport and had a driver waiting there so he could take a quick shower and go straight to the exam.”

At the moment, despite interest from Newcastle and increasing attention from across Europe, both Porto and the player’s representatives are convinced that staying where he is is the next wise move.

It took more than half a game for either team to score in Game 2 between the Vegas Golden Knights (1-1) and Anaheim Ducks (1-1). There were no such problems in Game 3, as the Golden Knights scored early and often, including a hat trick from Mitch Marner, to win Game 3, 6–2, and take a 2–1 series lead.

The Golden Knights scored on five-on-five, short-handed and power plays in the first period. It was his third, three-goal period of the playoffs. Just 1:06 into the game, Jack Eichel, stationed near the bottom left wall, delivered a perfect cross-ice pass to defenseman Shea Theodore (3), who beat Anaheim goalie Lucas Dostal from the crease. Anaheim forward Ryan Poehling appeared to screen Dostel and never saw the shot, which was Vegas’ first shot of the game.

The Golden Knights’ top playoff penalty kill unit continued their stellar play and scored their third short-handed goal of the postseason to give Vegas a 2-0 lead. Mitch Marner moved the puck into the Anaheim zone against a tired Anaheim group. Once over the blue line, he dropped the puck to oncoming Braden McNabb (1), who skated down the left wing and flicked a wrist shot from the faceoff dot inside the left circle that went under Dostal’s glove at 12:13 of the first.

Just as the Golden Knights scored early, they also scored late. On his first power play opportunity of the game, and with just 4.6 seconds remaining in the period, Marner (4) got a loose rebound that Dostal could not stop and stuffed it just inside the left post to give the Golden Knights a 3–0 lead. However, the news was not good for the Golden Knights in the first start, as they lost their captain Mark Stone to injury after only 4:24 of play.

It was a disappointing first period for Anaheim, as they had more shots (11 to 8), more power play chances (2 to 1), more hits (15–11), and eight fewer assists than the Golden Knights (11 to 3), yet found themselves in a 3–0 deficit. He also made a goal change to start the second period, pulling Dostal and calling on Ville Husso.

While Husso made some early saves, Marner and the Golden Knights quickly addressed that as well. A tic-tac-toe passing sequence between Brett Howden, Theodore and Marner followed, which ended with Marner (5) taking a stick tackle around Husso and slicing the puck inside the empty net on his backhand at 9:19 of the second to put the Golden Knights up 4–0.

Marner, who moved into the top line in Stone’s absence, continued his dominance and completed a natural hat trick at 17:56 of the second. The combination of William Carlson and Marner wore Anaheim down a lot. Karlsson won a puck battle below the goal line and got the puck to Marner, who then stepped out from behind the net and fired a harmless shot toward Husso that bounced under his right pad to increase the Golden Knights’ lead to five. The goal completed the first postseason career hat trick for Marner and also set a new career high for points in a playoff game with four.

Anaheim finally got a chance to get past Vegas netminder Carter Hart at 6:30 of the third. Alex Killorn took a poorly angled slap shot from just below the right circle that hit Hart under his right armpit and rolled into the net. Both of the Golden Knights’ defensemen struggled to clear the puck, but Anaheim rookie forward Beckett Seneca (3) dived on the loose puck and was able to knock it over the goal line to ruin Hart’s shutout bid and make the score 5–1.

Chris Kreider (2) pulled Anaheim to within three when he found himself alone in the crease with the puck on his stick and fired a shot past Hart’s glove at 15:09 of the third. The goal was Kreider’s 50th career playoff goal. However, that was as close as Anaheim got, with Howden (6) scoring into an empty net at 18:04 of the third minute to give the Golden Knights a 6–2 lead.

notes

• The Golden Knights’ penalty kill has killed 27 of 28 penalties so far in the postseason.
• The loss was Anaheim’s first at home in the playoffs. They were ahead 3-0 at Honda Center.

figures

• The shots on goal gave Anaheim a 33–28 victory.
• Hits were 53–23 in favor of Anaheim.
• Power play chances were three for Vegas and two for Anaheim.
• Faceoff winning percentage favored Vegas 56.9% to 43.1%.
• Blocked shots heavily favored Vegas 20-6.
• Vegas had double the gift, 16-8, but the takeaway was also double, 8-4.

The NCAA is looking to extend March Madness, and a decision is coming soon. As Yahoo Sports’ Ross Dellenger reports, NCAA leadership and members of the association’s basketball committees are expected to expand the men’s and women’s basketball tournaments to 76 teams.

If successful, eight games would be added to the existing “First Four” played on the Tuesday and Wednesday before the original first round. The new “Preliminary Round” will see 24 teams play 12 games at two host venues on Tuesday and Wednesday. After this, the 12 winners will join the other 52 teams.

The NCAA has been considering expanding the March Madness bracket for several years. In the first two days, there will be a drastic change in the format of the NCAA men’s and women’s basketball tournaments. In this scenario, the original round of 64 will remain. Just the way of making it will be different.

This expansion will give the NCAA more games in the first two days instead of the traditional four matchups. In this new format, games will be played throughout the day from Tuesday to Sunday. According to Dellenger, Big 12 and ACC leaders have pushed aggressively for an expansion of March Madness.

This bubble will allow teams to extend their seasons beyond conference tournaments. This may allow more power league schools to make the March Madness bracket, but as seen in this year’s edition of the tournament, mid-major programs have left their mark.

As of now, nothing is official, but the March Madness expansion may be coming soon. The NCAA Tournament ends on April 6, so an announcement may be coming soon. If so, it would change the way March Madness operates.

READ MORE: 10 replacements after Hubert Davis fires North Carolina after March Madness

Austin Konensky is a sports writer at SportsNut, covering the NHL, MLB, NFL, NBA and college football. His work…More about Austin Konensky

It doesn’t matter who wins in the end and who gets the last shot a shining momentWith the NCAA Championship trophy raised in the air, March Madness is always a great time for NBA Draft prospects to start making a name for themselves before the full pre-draft cycle begins.

Performing well and shining in the spotlight can make a difference in the lives of many of these collegiate players, and if you don’t believe it, just ask Donte DiVincenzo.

This year’s 2026 NBA Draft class figures to be one of the deepest, most talented groups we’ve ever seen enter the league at once, and the list of standouts from this year’s tournament is already long after the first weekend.

AJ DiBantsa and BYU didn’t win their first-round game, but NBA scouts across the country have begun labeling them as the clear favorites for the No. 1 pick. Obviously, his 35-point, 10-rebound performance without missing a game didn’t hurt him in any way in this No. 1 pick argument.

Cameron Boozer continues to make headlines with Duke winning his first two games, and the same can be said about Houston freshman guard Kingston Flemings, who looks to punch his ticket to the Final Four with two more wins just seven minutes from his campus.

And then there are several other names that emerged during the first weekend of the tournament – ​​Darius Acuff Jr. clearly dominated social media content and led all players in scoring in Arkansas’ first two games.

March Madness is in full swing, and the Sweet 16 begins Thursday night. Looking at the remaining 16 teams, there are plenty of prospects and stories, but here are the four NBA Draft prospects making the most noise that are worth keeping an eye on this weekend.

West Region: Darius Acuff Jr. – Arkansas

No player has been more impressive than Darius Acuff Jr. during the latter stages of the college basketball season and through his first two games of March Madness.

Whenever Arkansas needs a basket, Acuff is there to deliver, and he did just that in that thrilling second-round game against High Point that came down to the final few possessions.

Acuff finished the game with 36 points, scoring 12 of the Razorbacks’ 16 points in the final five minutes of the game. It seems like this guy lives and performs in the biggest moments, which is why he has fans all over the country anticipating a Sweet 16 matchup with Arizona, a team that many think can win the entire tournament.

Not only has Acuff scored 60 points in his two tournament games to lead all players offensively, but he is shooting nearly 46 percent from 3-point range in March Madness. He will now face Arizona’s Jaden Bradley, one of the best guard defenders in the country. This is must-see basketball Thursday night in San Jose.

East Region: Taris Reed Jr. – UConn

Before the NCAA Tournament started, we highlighted Tyrese Reed Jr. as one of the most interesting draft prospects moving forward and could find himself a first-round pick depending on how he performs for UConn.

Well, the UConn center played pretty well against Furman in the first round, dropping 31 points and 27 rebounds. Yes, you read that right – 27 rebounds. Reed joined Tom Gola (1995), Elvin Hayes (three times; 1966 and 1968), and Jerry Lucas (twice; 1960 and 1961) as the only players to record a 30-point, 25-rebound game in NCAA Tournament history.

In their next matchup against a much stronger-willed UCLA team, Reed had 10 points and 13 rebounds, bringing his tally to 41 points and 40 rebounds through the Huskies’ first two tournament games. Since 1971, only four players have had at least 40 points and 40 rebounds through two games: Bill Walton (1972 – UCLA), Hakeem Olajuwon (1983 – Houston), Tim Duncan (1997 – Wake Forest), and now Tyrese Reed Jr.

This is a list to be a part of and it’s the beginning of Reed’s rise. Tom Izzo coaching against Dan Hurley is entertainment in itself, but if you need another reason to watch UConn’s Sweet 16 game, it should definitely be for Reid.

By the time June comes around, we can discuss Reed as the best center prospect in this draft class, assuming he doesn’t return to college with several major zero offers that will likely come his way.

Midwest Region: Keaton Wagler – Illinois

Since Illinois is one of the top offensive teams in the country, individual performance often gets overlooked for the Illini. However, Keaton Wagler has been a standout freshman for Illinois this season, and if not for his consistent play and timely shots throughout the season they would not have been in the Sweet 16.

In his two games against Penn and VCU, Wagler scored a combined 32 points on 12-of-24 shooting, including 6-of-12 from 3-point range. Not only is he shooting very efficiently from everywhere on the court, but he has also recorded 12 rebounds and nine assists during his first two tournament games.

When it comes to NBA Draft prospects, Wagler won’t blow you away like the athletic and dynamic players at the top of the board will, but he is developing a very consistent, honest approach on the offensive end of the court, and his length provides a lot of advantages to becoming a tall scoring guard on the perimeter at the next level.

This Sweet 16 matchup against Houston is a great opportunity for Wagler to raise even more eyebrows of NBA personnel, as how he attacks his opponent’s strong defense and handles pressure will be two key elements of a potential Illinois upset in the Cougars’ backyard.

South Region: Morez Johnson Jr. – Michigan

It was difficult to choose between Moraes Johnson Jr. and Yaxel Lendeborg for this spot in the South Zone. Lendeborg was a player we highlighted as a highly touted draft prospect before the tournament started, and he scored 25 points in Michigan’s Round of 32 game against St. Louis.

While Lendeborg is the player most likely to go in the lottery out of these two Wolverine prospects, there is a lot to like about Johnson, and NBA scouts are monitoring him closely as one of the late-season players to consider before things fully kick off with the draft cycle.

Johnson is a big-bodied forward who does almost all of his damage in the paint, and that has allowed Lendeborg to thrive. Not only can Johnson be a double-double threat, but he is extremely efficient when it comes to finishing around the rim, shooting nearly 64 percent from the floor in the tournament.

As good as Lendeborg and others on Michigan’s roster are, Johnson is likely the key for this team to cut down the net in Indianapolis. Every successful college team has that one guy who can be labeled as the stabilizer and who really steps up when his team needs it.

Johnson is that player for Michigan, and his play is getting a lot of attention when it comes to the talent selections hovering around the outside of the lottery.

Even though the front office has already used their 2026 NBA Draft pick on Derrick Queen, the New Orleans Pelicans will be scouring NCAA March Madness for some late second-round pick intel, especially during Sweet Sixteen action. Arkansas, UConn, Illinois and Houston are filled with former McDonald’s All-Americans thriving in supporting cast roles. St. John’s is obviously a sleeper, but they also have a great heritage connection that’s worth noting.

Fortunately, the current roster construction makes NBA Draft scouting priorities clear. Dejounte Murray is the current at point guard, while Jeremiah Fears represents the future. Trey Murphy III has a wing spot secured, and Zion Williamson anchors the frontcourt when healthy. This leaves two glaring needs for the Pelicans: another wing/off-ball guard to act as Herb Jones insurance and a reliable big to step up Yves Missy and Derrick Queen for minutes.

The Sweet Sixteen provides a timely scouting window for five under-the-radar names who fit those ideals.

Pelicans look for shooters

Andrej Stojakovic (SG/SF, Illinois) Averaged 13.5 points and 4.5 rebounds, but production fluctuated wildly. A 30-point game is sandwiched between a week’s single-point duels. He completely disappeared against Michigan (0 points, 1 rebound, 2 fouls, 1 turnover) and dropped 21 points and 12 rebounds on Oregon in the next game. Finding a way to stoke that fire for an 82-game season is perhaps the most challenging step in developing a player.

Shooting (24.1%3PA) is also an issue. He has made only three three-pointers since Valentine’s Day; However, shooting 62% from inside the arc and his rim-attacking mentality give him a realistic NBA offensive floor. Stojakovic’s size, coupled with his pedigree and versatility at the shooting guard/small forward position, should draw real front-office attention when Illinois takes on Houston.

There is never a dull moment together Emmanuel Sharp (SG, Houston)A senior sharpshooter who has quietly spent four years becoming one of the best two-way guards in college basketball. The 6-foot-3 combo guard is averaging 15.3 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game this season, while shooting 40.7% from the field and a career-high 37.5% from three-point range. He was named to the All-Big 12 Team, the Big 12 All-Defensive Team, and earned Big 12 Tournament Most Outstanding Player honors after averaging 20.7 points, 4.0 rebounds and three 3-pointers per game in three tournament games.

Houston’s run to its sixth consecutive Sweet Sixteen is based, in part, on Sharp’s reliability. He scored 18 points in the second-round win over Texas A&M and is averaging 17.0 points through two tournament games. He is now Houston’s career 3-point field goal leader with 277 triples. For the Pelicans, Sharp represents the off-ball shooting guard and glue-guy ideal they often lack. Consider a high-upside Jose Alvardao replacement. Sharp is a player who is capable of guarding multiple positions, spacing the floor, and competing in high-leverage possession with or without the ball.

If the Pelicans prioritize toughness and defensive tenacity, Sharp is a logical target. A key part of Kelvin Sampson’s suffocating system, the scrappy fighter brings an edge that translates to winning basketball.

Sweet Sixteen’s Slugfest

With apologies to Coach Cal, Trayvon Brazile (PF/C, Arkansas) Perhaps the most astute individual in the Sweet Sixteen. Public draft boards took him anywhere from his late 20s and never heard his name called, even though the 6-foot-10, 230-pound Arkansas forward averaged 13.2 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.6 assists while shooting 53% from the field. He has posted multiple double-doubles during SEC play, including a career-high 28-point outburst against Texas.

What makes the Brazilian particularly attractive to a Pelicans team in roster flux is his combination of length and touch. He has a wingspan of 7 feet 3.75 inches and a maximum height of 41 inches, giving him the physical profile of a legitimate NBA rim protector and rebounder. He also demonstrated range this season and shot 36% from beyond the arc, a skill that matches up well with Williamson in modern frontcourt alignments.

If there is any doubt Tyrese Reed Jr. (PF/C, UConn) were in the NBA conversation, his first-round performance against Furman erased it. The 6-foot-11, 265-pound center scored 31 points and grabbed 27 rebounds in the Huskies’ 82–71 opening round victory, a stat line that had not been posted in an NCAA Tournament game since Bill Walton in 1972. Reed made 15 of 15 shots from the field in that performance and became the first player in 54 years to have 30 points, 20 rebounds and shoot 80% from the field. In a tournament game.

Reed’s regular season statistics are equally impressive. He averaged 14.5 points and 8.5 rebounds with a 62.5% field goal percentage and earned first-team All-Big East honors after being named the conference’s Sixth Man of the Year last season. He transferred to UConn after two seasons at Michigan, and the adjustment to Dan Hurley’s program has been seamless. The knock on Reed remains his free-throw shooting (54.6%), a flaw that may limit his NBA range but shouldn’t disqualify him from being a late second-round flyer.

Finally, looking at the biggest underdog, Dillon Mitchell (PF, St. John’s) This is probably the most interesting name on this list, as he doesn’t appear in the box score like a traditional prospect. The 6-foot-8-inch, 205-pound forward from Tampa is averaging 8.2 points, 7.1 rebounds and a remarkable 3.1 assists per game this season, while shooting 55.2%. Those assist numbers from a power forward are essentially unheard of, and they reflect a skill set that clearly translates to the modern NBA.

A long, switchable, pass-first frontcourt piece who can run the offense on multiple levels, Mitchell may be the best low-risk, high-reward prospect to put next to Derrick Queen. Maybe not long term, but it would make for some fun NBA Summer League hoops this summer. St. John’s has gone 19-1 at one point since Mitchell was reinserted into the starting lineup this season, and that’s no coincidence.

Mitchell is a McDonald’s All-American who has played at three programs (Texas, Cincinnati) after becoming one of the most highly traveled portal prospects in recent memory, and his basketball IQ has only sharpened under Rick Pitino.

As the Sweet Sixteen unfolds, the focus will naturally fall on the star players and Cinderella stories. However, for the Pelicans’ scouting department, the real task is to evaluate how these five potential second-round targets handle the pressure of high-stakes tournament basketball. In the margins of the NBA Draft, intel is the currency, and New Orleans would be wise to collect as much as possible on this quintet of underdogs.

The 2026 edition of the men’s NCAA Tournament, aka March Madness, is underway! If you’re planning to watch matchups from the biggest and best tournament in American sports today, below you can check out Saturday’s games, upcoming events and other important details on March Madness, including who will compete this month and future NBA Lottery selections.

NCAA tournament schedule today

How to watch the 2026 Men’s NCAA Tournament

If you plan to watch NCAA Tournament games on television today, they will be available on the CBS Sports family of networks. They are CBS, TNT, TBS, TruTV. You can find the times, channels and matchups for today’s games above, or scroll down for tomorrow’s pairings.

Can I watch March Madness on my phone?

Yes, you can watch March Madness games on mobile devices with the March Madness Live app. (For iPhone users).

How to watch March Madness without cable?

All March Madness games can also be found on various streaming platforms. You can watch today’s matchup on YouTube TV, Paramount+, MAX, Hulu + Live TV and DirecTV stream.

What time is the first game tomorrow?

The first game on Wednesday’s NCAA Tournament schedule begins at 12:15 p.m. ET/9:15 p.m. PT and features

Upcoming NCAA Tournament Schedule

Who is the favorite to win the 2026 NCAA Tournament?

The popular picks to win the 2026 NCAA Tournament this month are Duke, Michigan and Arizona.

Who are the top NBA prospects in March Madness 2026?

The 2026 NBA Draft is projected to be one of the best in recent times, and several players who could be taken as early as Round 1 will be competing during March Madness. Players you should keep an eye on are Duke’s Cam Boozer, BYU’s AJ DiBuntsa, Arkansas’ Darius Acuff Jr., Kansas’ Darrin Peterson and Houston’s Kingston Flemings.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

March Madness is probably the highlight of every college basketball player’s career. Where else can you experience the atmosphere that the tournament brings? Very few sporting events match the intensity of March Madness. Unfortunately, there are a whole group of players who were not able to play in the tournament, like Philadelphia 76ers star Tyrese Maxey.

With March Madness in full swing once again, Maxi took to X to express his thoughts about the tournament. The 76ers star lamented the fact that he was not able to play in the NCAA Tournament.

“Every year during March Madness I get sad that I don’t get a chance to play in the tournament…” Maxi wrote.

Maxey then went on to say that things worked out great anyway, as he was drafted by the 76ers in part because he missed the March Madness tournament.

“Then I remembered… I probably wouldn’t be a Sixer… so it worked out perfectly!” He said.

Maxi was drafted by the 76ers with the 21st overall pick in the 2020 NBA draft. The Kentucky product fell down the draft board largely due to a lack of game film. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 March Madness was canceled entirely. Not wanting to stay in college another year, Maxi decided to declare for the draft and take his chance there.

This decision was very good for Maxi. Although it took some time for him to find his feet, the 76ers guard eventually became one of the best guards in the league. He was named to his second All-Star Game this season and has been a key player for the 76ers alongside Joel Embiid. This season, Maxi is averaging 29 points per game while making 37.1% of his three-point attempts, as well as 4.1 rebounds and 6.7 assists per game.

Maxi, unfortunately, will be out for the next two weeks after suffering a finger injury last week. The Sixers currently sit ninth in the Eastern Conference, are still in the play-in tournament, but have a long shot at making the playoffs outright.

The 2026 edition of the men’s NCAA Tournament, aka March Madness, is underway! If you’re planning to watch matchups from the biggest and best tournament in American sports today, below you can check out Friday’s games, upcoming events and other important details on March Madness, including who will compete this month and future NBA Lottery selections.

NCAA tournament schedule today

How to watch the 2026 Men’s NCAA Tournament

If you plan to watch NCAA Tournament games on television today, they will be available on the CBS Sports family of networks. They are CBS, TNT, TBS, TruTV. You can find the times, channels and matchups for today’s games above, or scroll down for tomorrow’s pairings.

Can I watch March Madness on my phone?

Yes, you can watch March Madness games on mobile devices with the March Madness Live app. (For iPhone users).

How to watch March Madness without cable?

All March Madness games can also be found on various streaming platforms. You can watch today’s matchup on YouTube TV, Paramount+, MAX, Hulu + Live TV and DirecTV stream.

What time is the first game tomorrow?

The first game on Wednesday’s NCAA Tournament schedule begins at 12:15 p.m. ET/9:15 p.m. PT and features Santa Clara vs. Kentucky.

Upcoming NCAA Tournament Schedule

Who is the favorite to win the 2026 NCAA Tournament?

The popular picks to win the 2026 NCAA Tournament this month are Duke, Michigan and Arizona.

Who are the top NBA prospects in March Madness 2026?

The 2026 NBA Draft is projected to be one of the best in recent times, and several players who could be taken as early as Round 1 will be competing during March Madness. Players you should keep an eye on are Duke’s Cam Boozer, BYU’s AJ DiBuntsa, Arkansas’ Darius Acuff Jr., Kansas’ Darrin Peterson and Houston’s Kingston Flemings.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

Washington Wizards star guard Trae Young has been busy this past year. The four-time All-Star announced that he has taken on the role of assistant general manager for Oklahoma men’s basketball in March 2025, the program for which he played as a freshman in the 2017–18 season. He pledged to donate $1 million to the program and help with both high school and transfer portal prospect evaluations, fundraising and player contract negotiations.

Since then, Young has rehabilitated his quad and knee injuries, as well as uprooted his life. The Atlanta Hawks traded the 27-year-old to the Wizards in January, marking the first time he has changed teams since the Hawks drafted him at No. 5 overall in 2018. He has only played five games since then due to injury, but he is still effective for his new team.

Young is averaging 15.2 points on 59.5% shooting (42.9% 3-point) with 6.2 assists against 2.6 turnovers in 20.8 minutes. The former All-NBA honoree most recently sat out Monday’s 125-117 loss to the Golden State Warriors with a quad contusion and will not play Thursday against the Detroit Pistons.

Additionally, Young has signed a new partnership with Sling TV for March Madness once the 2026 NCAA Tournament begins. The promotion, titled “When Underdogs Win, You Win”, offers fans a 1-day Sling Pass for $1 if any player from the 12 to 16 seed advances to the Sweet Sixteen in the men’s or women’s tournament. To qualify, fans must purchase a 1, 3 or 7-day pass between Thursday and Sunday. No. 12 High Point’s 83-82 win over No. 5 Wisconsin in the first round is its first major upset of the year.

Young is a suitable promotional partner, as he played for No. 10 Oklahoma against No. 7 Rhode Island in the first round of the 2018 tournament. The Sooners lost 83–78 despite the 2018 NCAA scoring champion and assist leader having 28 points (9-18 FG, 3-9 3-point) and seven assists, ending his collegiate playing career.

Oklahoma was the first team eliminated from the tournament field this season, the first with Young as assistant general manager. The Sooners went 8–3 in their final 11 games in the SEC, which sent 10 teams to March Madness, but it was not enough. The program qualifies as an “underdog” as it has never won a national title and has won only two tournament games since 2018.

Young spoke with ClutchPoints about this, his advice for NCAA Tournament players, fellow Wizards and 2012 NCAA champion Anthony Davis, and more on Wednesday.

Trae Young Q&A

Joshua Valdez: So first of all, who have your eyes set on this year’s March Madness? Can a Dalit run?

Trae Young: Oh, I just don’t have a team. There are some guys and some teams that I look at. I mean, that’s a lot of underdogs. But a lot of the good teams are really good, and certainly even the weaker teams have to come along to pull off some upsets.

Comment: Young singled out High Point, No. 14 North Dakota State and No. 13 Miami (OH) women’s team as underdogs who could make the Sweet Sixteen on his Instagram.

Joshua Valdez: Speaking of underdogs, how did your partnership with Sling TV come about?

Trae Young: Yeah, I mean, I think that was a part of it. We talked, and I feel like growing up being an underdog and just partnering with Sling and doing this, and especially during March Madness, giving people a chance to get more involved, I think it was a no-brainer. So that’s really great.

Joshua Valdez: What do you think is special about the tournament?

Trae Young: I just think it feels like a one-game tournament. This is what makes the anticipation for each game so exciting, as the underdogs can win the game on any given night, so you always have to be prepared as you want to see upsets.

Joshua Valdez: Obviously, you played at OU for a year. How have you grown as a player and a person since being there?

Trae Young: Just understanding that you have to take every moment seriously and you never know when you will get that next moment again. Going into college, I thought I would get a few chances at tournaments, but unfortunately I only had one. Being able to only play one game in the tournament sucked, but experiencing the spirit of March Madness was crazy.

Joshua Valdez: Based on your experience, what advice do you have for players heading into March Madness this year?

Trae Young: Never take the moment for granted, be as prepared as you can be, and just go out there and enjoy. Lead by doing your best, don’t look ahead and think about what’s going to happen in the future, but just be present in the present. ‘Cause you never know when your last game will be in the tournament.

Joshua Valdez: Going back to OU for a second, I know you’ve been helping them as an assistant GM. How’s it going so far?

Trae Young: Really good, really good. It is sad that we were the first team that could not make it to the tournament. And I really felt like we should have done that, especially the way we finished the season and the number of games we won on this tough schedule. But it was good. It’s unfortunate that we weren’t able to make it this year, but that’s okay. We will be back.

Joshua Valdez: Anything behind the scenes of college basketball or anything new you’ve learned about the game since you took on this role?

Trae Young: I mean, these players are getting paid. These players are getting paid these days. I think it’s a different thing and you have to find kids that are willing to work. I mean, you want to find kids who are here for the love of the game more than the money. This is one of my main things. That’s the difference between when I was in school and now.

Joshua Valdez: Finally, you’re now on the Wizards with Anthony Davis. Obviously, he was a collegiate star who went on to achieve great things in the NBA, just like you. He hasn’t played with you guys yet, but what’s it like being around him?

Trae Young: Yeah, I mean, obviously, he’s really good. Eddie has been great so far. He has a lot of knowledge of basketball and has seen a lot of the game, especially winning a championship as a freshman at the college level. [at Kentucky]And all the accolades she has earned over the years. It’s definitely nice to have a guy in the locker room that you can look at and understand what he brings every night, because you’ve seen what he’s done on TV and over the years.

As the Washington Wizards cruised through the final three weeks of the NBA regular season, college basketball began March Madness, also known as the NCAA Tournament. Like last year, there are several prospects heading into the tournament that the Wizards could take with their lottery picks in this summer’s draft.

In 2025, freshman guard Trey Johnson had a team-high 23 points (6-14 FG, 4-7 3-points), six rebounds and two assists in 38 minutes for Texas in an 86–80 First Four loss to Xavier. That game ended the collegiate career of the 2025 SEC Freshman of the Year, and Washington drafted him No. 6 overall in June. Now, his 36.7% three-point clip ranks fourth among NBA rookies with at least four attempts per game (minimum 40 games played). He also ranks fifth with an average of 5.3 attempts.

This year, the obvious draft targets for the Wizards are BYU forward AJ DiBuntsa, Kansas guard Darrin Peterson and Duke forward Cameron Boozer. All three will be playing in the tournament, as No. 1 Duke plays No. 16 Siena in the East Region on Thursday, No. 6 BYU takes on No. 11 Texas in the West Region on Thursday, and No. 4 Kansas takes on No. 13 California Baptist in the East Region on Friday. If Duke and Kansas each win their first two games, they will play each other in the Sweet Sixteen.

Any one of those players could be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. DiBuntsa leads the nation with 25.3 points per game on 51.3% shooting (34% 3-point) and can score any type of basket, Peterson ruins games for the opponent even in limited minutes (for example, he scored 23 points in 18 minutes in an 81–69 win over Oklahoma State on February 18), and Boozer is a double-double machine (22.5 points and 10.2 rebounds). Season) who also creates shots for his teammates. Most recently, the 6-foot-9, 250-pounder dished out eight assists in the Blue Devils’ 74-70 ACC Tournament final win over Virginia on Saturday.

If the Wizards get a top-three pick in May’s NBA Draft Lottery, they will likely get one of these three players. If they get the No. 4 pick, they could acquire North Carolina forward Caleb Wilson, the only freshman in school history other than Tyler Hansbrough to earn All-American honors. The 6-foot-10, 215-pounder won’t play in the tournament as he recovers from thumb surgery (per ESPN), but he averaged a near double-double (19.8 points, 9.4 rebounds) on 57.8% shooting and can switch to any position defensively.

However, there is a possibility that Washington’s lottery selection could fall outside the top four again. Entering Thursday night’s home matchup with the Detroit Pistons, the team has the NBA’s second-worst record (16-52), having finished in the same place last season. The second-worst record guarantees a top-six selection, and the Wizards were unlucky to get the lowest selection they could get last year.

Washington fans should be familiar with the consensus prospects outside the top four if the team selects the No. 5 or No. 6 pick in May. Luckily for the Wizards, several potential stars will likely be available in that range as well.

Here are four of those players:

G Kingston Flemings, Houston

Flemings was named the Cougars’ “best freshman” by Joseph Duarte of the Houston Chronicle, and with good reason. The 6-foot-4, 190-pounder blends efficient shooting with playmaking as a point guard while limiting turnovers. He is averaging 16.4 points per game with 5.3 assists on 47.5% shooting (39.2% 3-point shooting), while committing only 1.9 turnovers in 31.7 minutes. He also leads the team with 1.6 steals.

Additionally, the Flemings move on to bigger games. For example, the San Antonio native scored 21 points (6-14 FG, 3-4 3-point) with four rebounds, three assists and three steals in 32 minutes in Houston’s 69-47 win over Peterson and Kansas in Friday’s Big 12 Tournament semifinals.

No. 2 Houston will face No. 15 Idaho in the South Region on Thursday night.

G Darius Acuff Jr., Arkansas

Acuff may be the hottest player in college basketball, coming off a 30-point, 11-assist performance in the Razorbacks’ 85-76 win over Vanderbilt in Sunday’s SEC Tournament final. The 6-foot-3, 190-pounder has five 30-plus-point games this season, including a 49-point breakout in a 117-115 double overtime win over Alabama on Feb. 18.

Acuff is also more efficient than Flemings in high shooting volume, as he ranks seventh in the country with 22.9 points on 48.6% shooting (44.5% 3-point) while averaging 16.2 field goal attempts (5.8 3-point). Flemings is averaging 12.8 attempts (three 3-pointers).

Acuff is averaging 6.5 assists against 2.2 turnovers in 35.1 minutes. The 2026 SEC Player and Rookie of the Year could be the long-term version of Washington’s Trae Young, just an inch shorter. The latter has a $49 million player option this summer, so there’s no guarantee he’ll remain there after next season.

No. 4 Arkansas will play No. 13 Hawaii in the West Region on Thursday.

G Keaton Wagler, Illinois

Wagler is another freshman sniper, as he shoots 40.2% from long range on an average of 5.8 attempts. However, the Kansas native also has the size at 6 feet 6 inches and his scoring prowess is similar to what Flemings and Acuff have displayed in their careers. 46 point performance in 88-82 win over Purdue on Jan. 24.

PTS: 46
FG: 13-17
3pt: 9-11

Revitalize Every Basket @ilinimbb Star Keaton Wagler @bigten Freshman record 4️⃣6️⃣-point performance 👇 pic.twitter.com/dNcila5QJc

– Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) 24 January 2026

Wagler is the biggest surprise on this list, as he was a three-star recruit before winning Big Ten Freshman of the Year honors this season. Nonetheless, the combo guard is now unquestionably one of the best players in this class.

No. 3 Illinois will face No. 14 Pennsylvania in the South Region on Thursday.

Fort Ament, Tennessee

Ament is not as efficient as the above players, as he is averaging 17.5 points on 40.5% shooting (33.1% 3-point) in 30.2 minutes. However, the freshman at 6-foot-10, 207 pounds has great defensive tools and potential as a big man in the NBA. Some of his standout performances this season include 29-point performances against Oklahoma, Kentucky and Alabama on February 18, February 7 and January 24, respectively. The Volunteers also won 89–66, lost 74–71 and won 79–73, respectively.

No. 6 Tennessee will face No. 11 Miami (OH) in the Midwest Region on Friday.

The 2026 edition of the men’s NCAA Tournament, aka March Madness, is underway! If you’re planning to watch matchups from the biggest and best tournament in American sports today, below you can check out Thursday’s games, upcoming events and other important details on March Madness, including who will compete this month and future NBA Lottery selections.

NCAA tournament schedule today

How to watch March Madness 2026

If you plan to watch NCAA Tournament games on television today, they will be available on the CBS Sports family of networks. They are CBS, TNT, TBS, TruTV. You can find the times, channels and matchups for today’s games above, or scroll down for tomorrow’s pairings.

Can I watch March Madness on my phone?

Yes, you can watch March Madness games on mobile devices with the March Madness Live app. (For iPhone users).

How to watch March Madness without cable?

All March Madness games can also be found on various streaming platforms. You can watch today’s matchup on YouTube TV, Paramount+, MAX, Hulu + Live TV and DirecTV stream.

Upcoming NCAA Tournament Schedule

What time is the first game tomorrow?

The first game on Thursday’s NCAA Tournament schedule begins at 12:15 p.m. ET/9:15 p.m. PT and pits Santa Clara against Kentucky.

Who is the favorite to win the 2026 NCAA Tournament?

The popular picks to win the 2026 NCAA Tournament this month are Duke, Michigan and Arizona.

Who are the top NBA prospects in March Madness 2026?

The 2026 NBA Draft is projected to be one of the best in recent times, and several players who could be taken as early as Round 1 will be competing during March Madness. Players you should keep an eye on are Duke’s Cam Boozer, BYU’s AJ DiBuntsa, Arkansas’ Darius Acuff Jr., Kansas’ Darrin Peterson and Houston’s Kingston Flemings.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

There is something inherently electric about this time of year. The collegiate atmosphere permeates the professional ranks and each high-stakes possession in the NCAA Tournament feels like a job interview for the bright lights of the NBA. For the New York Knicks, the 2026 March Madness tournament is not just a spectacle for fans. It’s a scouting gold mine. As we look ahead to the 2026 NBA Draft, the front office is looking for specific role models who fit into the gritty, blue-collar identity carefully constructed in Manhattan. Of course, the Garden aspires to greatness. As the world of college basketball descends into its annual chaos, three specific names stand out as potential inheritors of the Knicks’ winning culture.

Championship aspirations

By mid-March 2026, the Knicks find themselves firmly established as one of the elite squads in the Eastern Conference. His impressive record is 44-25. This team has proven that their success in the NBA Cup is no fluke. Rather, it’s a harbinger of the deep postseason run the city has craved for decades. Jalen Brunson undoubtedly remains the undisputed engine of the offense. Meanwhile, Karl-Anthony Towns has provided a difference and scoring dimension at the center position that the Knicks haven’t seen in years.

Despite the general chaos of an 82-game schedule, they have maintained a top-three seeding. Recently he has also demolished his rivals in a record breaking manner. The chemistry between Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby and the rest of the core has made them a defensive nightmare. This set the stage for what many believe could be the most significant playoff push for the franchise in thirty years.

missing pieces

Despite current success, Leon Rose and the Knicks’ brain trust understand that the NBA is an arms race. To be stagnant in this league is to be left behind. With veterans at their peak and a high winning percentage, the Knicks will likely select in the late first round. This is where value and fit outweigh the need for a franchise-changing star. He preferred versatile, multi-position defenders who could shoot the long ball. Still, as the roster matures, there is a growing desire for another dynamic secondary playmaker or a developmental big man who can run the second unit.

Furthermore, with the physical toll of the “Knicks way”, finding a high-motor player who can contribute to the rotation is paramount. The goal is to find a prospect that simply does not have high profits. They need someone who has the mental toughness to survive in the spotlight at Madison Square Garden and thrive under the intense expectations of the city.

Morez Johnson Jr., Michigan

If the Knicks are looking for pure, unadulterated defensive intensity with a frame that screams New York basketball, Moraes Johnson Jr. is the name that should be circled in red on every scout’s clipboard. The Michigan standout has spent the 2025-26 season blowing up draft boards. This is due to the versatility of his size and coordination. Johnson is an absolute beast on the defensive end. This is where he is incredibly variable, he has the length and instincts to disrupt both perimeter players and interior threats.

He also shows what kind of motor the Knicks want. He can consistently impact wins through his rebounding and rim protection. Watching him go through the pressure of March Madness will reveal if his offensive flashes, including some long-term shooting ability, can match his elite defensive floor. This would certainly make him a primary target for a team looking to bolster their frontcourt depth at the end of the first round.

Patrick Ngongba II, Duke

Yes, the Knicks have established a strong identity in the paint. That said, the prospect of adding a talent like Patrick Ngongba II for a team selecting late in the round is almost too tempting to ignore. Duke’s big man is a defensive presence well beyond his years. He has demonstrated a level of polish and passing skill that is rare for modern centre-backs. Ngongba isn’t just a lane-blocker either. He is a smart interior defender who fits the modern structure by using his positioning and high basketball IQ to end games before they develop.

Note that the Knicks’ defensive scheme relies on high-level communication and “shrinking” the floor. Additionally, Ngongba’s discipline and ability to facilitate from the post will be a huge asset. If he can lead the Blue Devils in the tournament and prove he can handle athletic finishers, he will immediately demonstrate the maturity needed to play at the professional level.

Dellin Swain, Texas

For a team that values ​​multi-positional wings with elite physical tools, Texas junior Dellin Swain is the quintessential late riser. He is definitely one to watch this March. Standing at 6 feet 8 inches tall, Swain has burst onto the national scene this season. They have outscored the Longhorns in almost every major statistical category. He is a premier transition threat who can push the ball himself or finish as a cutter.

Of course, Swain’s defensive versatility also makes him a perfect fit for the Knicks’ culture. He is a disruptive event-maker on the perimeter, using his length to generate steals and deflections at a high rate. Certainly, his outside shooting remains the swing skill for his professional ceiling. However, his high IQ as a connector and his consistent rim pressure suggest he can thrive in an NBA system that offers more spacing. If he leads Texas to a deep tournament, his draft stock will be undeniable.

As the 2026 NCAA March Madness Tournament begins, the basketball world’s eyes turn from the professional grind to single-elimination theater. This is where legends are born and draft stocks grow strong. For the Boston Celtics, this tournament is a high-risk scouting mission. Of course, most teams are either vying for ping-pong balls or desperate for a play-in race. However, Boston finds itself in the enviable position of being a powerhouse that still keeps a keen eye on the future.

The 2026 draft class has been heralded as one of the deepest and most talented in recent memory. It has been compared to the famous group of 2003. Of course, the Celtics are always trying to maximize their window. Thus, be on the lookout for them to identify the right talent in this pool that could be the difference between a fleeting moment of glory and an ongoing dynasty.

Key strengths in 2025-26

As of mid-March 2026, the Celtics have firmly established themselves as one of the dominant teams in the Eastern Conference. They currently hold a strong record of 45-23. Under the strategic guidance of Joe Mazzulla, the Celtics have navigated a difficult schedule with the poise of a seasoned champion. They are behind only the surprising Detroit Pistons for the top seed in the East. Jaylen Brown is playing at an All-NBA level. He is currently averaging over 28 points per game.

Meanwhile, the supporting cast, including Derrick White and Peyton Pritchard, have provided much-needed continuity as they recover from various roster injuries. Boston’s defense remains their calling card. They lead the league in fewest points allowed per game. That said, it’s their offensive efficiency, which ranks second this season, that has truly made them a nightmare matchup. As the playoffs approach, the Celtics look every bit like a team capable of hanging another banner on the roof of the TD Garden.

Strategic depth and future security

Despite their current success, Brad Stevens and the Celtics front office are well aware that the NBA landscape is constantly changing. This is especially true in the era of second aprons and strict salary cap restrictions. Boston enters the 2026 offseason with their first-round pick. Given his unique position he has probably been placed in the 26th to 28th category. Their draft strategy will likely focus on finding NBA-ready talent who can contribute on cheap rookie-level contracts while providing specialized skills.

The primary need for this roster moving forward includes finding versatile wing depth. They also need high-IQ interior rim protection and secondary playmaking that suits their switchability and spacing. Given the hefty financial commitments at their core, the draft represents the most viable path to adding high-level talent without breaking the bank. The Celtics won’t be looking for a project. They want impact players who have the basketball IQ and defensive versatility that have become hallmarks of the Mazzulla era.

Candidate Mara, Michigan

If the Celtics are looking to secure a long-term anchor for their frontcourt, Michigan’s Ade Mara is the most interesting prospect available at the end of the first round. The 7-foot-3 junior has seen his stock rise during the Big Ten season. He has shown a unique blend of shot-blocking and high-post playmaking that is rare for a player of his stature. Mara is currently averaging around three attempts per game. His 7-foot-6-inch wingspan allows him to contest shots without even leaving his feet.

However, what makes Mara really interesting is her demise. He is arguably the best passer in the country. Mara can initiate sets with elbows or find cutters with pinpoint accuracy. It will be important to see how Mara handles the speed of high-major guards in the tournament. Nevertheless, his ability to serve as both a defensive wall and offensive center makes him a natural fit for the Celtics system.

Dellin Swain, Texas

In the modern NBA, you can never have enough 6-foot-8 wings who can handle multiple positions, pass and defend. Texas standout Dellin Swain is just that. Since transferring from Xavier, Swain has developed into a primary engine for the Longhorns. He is averaging nearly 18 points and 8 rebounds while showing a defensive motor that never stops. He has an impressive handle for his size. This allows him to attack closeouts and finish through traffic with a level of physicality that translates well to the pro level.

For Boston, Swain represents the perfect developmental wing who can provide energy and switchability off the bench. His shooting from deep has also improved by 35 percent. If he can show consistent stroke play during deep runs in the tournament, he will prove he belongs in the first round final conversation.

Morez Johnson Jr., Michigan

Prospects to watch include Michigan’s Morez Johnson Jr. He is a 6-foot-9 tall interior force who has blown up draft boards due to his elite defensive instincts. Johnson is a quintessential “connector” on the defensive end. He shows the lateral quickness to switch to smaller guards while having the strength to hold his own in the post. Sure, he’s not a high-volume scorer. However, he is an amazing play finisher who understands his role. Johnson shot more than 63 percent from the field, enjoying a lot of lobs and putbacks.

For the Celtics, Johnson is a dream prospect who could finally charm Nikola Vucevic without a massive drop in scheme integrity. Their performance in March will be a litmus test for their offense. However, his defensive ceiling is high enough that he could be a lock for a championship contender looking for immediate help in the trenches.

The Atlanta Hawks have spent much of the 2025-26 season navigating a landscape of transition and change. Following the historic trade in January that sent franchise icon Trae Young to the Washington Wizards, the team initially struggled to find its footing. However, under the steady hand of Quin Snyder, Atlanta has gone on an impressive ten-game winning streak dating back to late March. They are currently 37-31 and are the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference. Thus, the Hawks are playing their best basketball of the year.

Jalen Johnson has developed into a legitimate All-Star. He’s racking up triple-doubles with terrifying frequency. Meanwhile, Dyson Daniels has closed the perimeter. This recent success has changed the energy in the A’s. However, the front office knows the move from a play-in hopeful to a true contender. They must take advantage of their upcoming draft assets.

missing pieces

Despite the current winning streak, there are still clear areas of improvement on the Hawks roster that the 2026 NBA Draft can address. Young’s departure leaves a huge void in high-level shot creation and long-term backcourt stability. This is especially true given that McCallum is serving as an experienced bridge forward. Atlanta needs a dynamic perimeter threat who can facilitate and score at all three levels to complement Johnson’s point-forward talents.

Additionally, while Onyeka Okongwu remains a defensive stalwart, the team could benefit from more elite wing depth. They may also be looking for a versatile forward who can provide both floor spacing and defensive switchability. Onsi Saleh and the scouting department aimed to find a high-impact talent who would fit the modern, versatile identity Snyder was building. They need a player who can thrive in a fast-paced, high-assist system that currently leads the NBA in points per game.

Darrin Peterson, Kansas

If the Hawks are looking for a key backcourt successor, look no further than Kansas guard Darrin Peterson. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches tall, Peterson is considered one of the most talented guard players to enter the draft in the last few years. He compares highly with some of the league’s most elite three-point scorers. Despite dealing with minor hamstring problems early in the season, his performance for the fourth-seeded Jayhawks has not been stellar. He has an innate ability to reach his spots, using picturesque footwork and devastating changes of pace to leave defenders in the thrashings.

For Atlanta, Pettersson’s ability to knock down a high volume of threes and manipulate defenses with the pick-and-roll would be a perfect fit. Watching him go through the pressure of the East Region will reveal if he has the mental toughness to lead a backcourt at the next level.

AJ DiBantsa, BYU

Certainly, the Hawks have found a star in Johnson. However, adding a jumbo wing like BYU’s AJ Dybantsa could create one of the most dangerous forward tandems in the Eastern Conference. Dyabantsa is a 6-foot-9 scoring machine with a 7-foot wingspan and athleticism that almost seems inappropriate. He has spent this season lighting up the scoreboard. This included multiple 40-point outbursts that solidified his status as the potential number-one overall pick. His offensive range is also astronomical. He can easily pull up from mid-range or use his elastic body type to acrobatically finish at the rim.

Yes, critics have pointed to his defensive consistency. Still, the physical tools for a lockdown appearance are in place under Snyder’s tutelage. If DiBantsa can lead the Cougars on a deep run, he could force the Hawks to do whatever it takes to get on the board.

Cameron Boozer, Duke

For those who value a high-floor prospect with an unmatched win history, Duke’s Cameron Boozer is the perfect name. At 6 foot 10 inches and 250 pounds, Boozer has been the driving force behind the Blue Devils receiving the number one overall seed in the tournament. He’s a rare prospect who combines elite physicality with warp-speed basketball IQ. Boozer can process the floor like a ten year veteran. His inside-outside scoring versatility and magnetic hands on the glass make him a double-double threat every night.

For the Hawks, he represents a plug-and-play asset who makes an impact on wins through elite rebounding, pinpoint outlet passing and under-rated defensive versatility. As he leads Duke into the battle for the East Region, scouts will want to see how his strength and skill-set work against some of the most athletic giants in the country. Adding a player of Boozer’s maturity would immediately stabilize Atlanta’s frontcourt for the next decade.

seize the moment

There are whispers about the 2026 draft class in the same manner as those about the famous 2003 group. Now, March Madness is the ultimate proving ground for these future stars. For the Hawks, the tournament represents a live-action scouting report for the pieces that will define their future. Whether it’s Peterson’s excellent shot-making, DiBantsa’s raw athletic ceiling, or Boozer’s disciplined dominance, the talent available is transformative.

The Hawks have shown they can win now. However, to win big they will have to choose wisely when the clock is ticking. As these prospects take the floor under the bright lights, the path back to the top of the Eastern Conference becomes clearer with every bucket and every defensive stop.

March is the month when legends are forged in college basketball’s brightest lights. For the Milwaukee Bucks, this is the best scouting ground. As the 2026 NCAA Tournament begins, the basketball world has its eyes on young developments that will soon impact the fate of NBA contenders. The atmosphere is electric, and the stakes are existential. For an NBA team looking to revitalize their rotation, this tournament is a high-stakes audition.

It’s a unique thing to see a kid carrying the weight of the campus on his shoulders while NBA scouts write notes in the shade. For the Bucks, it’s certainly about finding the missing pieces of a championship puzzle that’s starting to look a little frayed around the edges.

Cream City Rollercoaster

The 2025-26 season has been difficult and often disappointing for Milwaukee. The Bucks are in 11th place in the Eastern Conference with a 28-39 record. Despite the Herculean efforts of Giannis Antetokounmpo, who continues to put up MVP-caliber numbers, the supporting cast has struggled to maintain consistency. The defensive identity that once defined this team has slipped to 24th in the league. Similarly, crime has also often remained stable. It is ranked lowest in terms of points per game.

Under Doc Rivers, the Bucks have shown glimpses of their former talent. However, 8 defeats in their last 10 matches have underlined the dire need for change. The Fiserv forum crowd is restless. As the possibility of the postseason bubble bursting increases, the focus has naturally shifted toward the draft as the primary vehicle for redemption.

Missing Links of Deer District

Heading into the 2026 NBA Draft, Jon Horst and the Bucks front office should prioritize NBA-ready talent over raw, long-term projects. The roster is crying out for dynamic wing depth and a lead guard who can take the playmaking burden off Giannis. Milwaukee’s defensive rating is a clear red flag. That means they need prospects with high defensive IQ and the physical tools to switch to multiple positions.

The modern NBA demands versatility and shooting, two areas where the Bucks have looked dangerously weak. The Bucks must be surgical in their evaluation as they navigate a complicated pick-swap situation with the Pelicans and Hawks. They need to find players who can deliver strong performances from day one and provide the spark this aging center is sorely lacking.

Nate Ament, Tennessee

One name that every Bucks fan should write down on their bracket is Nate Ament out of Tennessee. Standing 6 feet 10 inches tall with a guard’s shooting touch, Ament represents the prototype of the modern NBA forward. After a rough start to his college career, Ament has absolutely exploded over the last two months of the season. He is adept at navigating in space and has developed a bad habit of making contacts. His staggering 7.5 free throw attempts per game recently prove this point.

For Milwaukee, Ament’s ability to stretch the floor and make timely cuts will be a godsend. His three-point percentage is also up. Additionally, his size will allow the Bucks to play big without compromising speed or shooting.

Kingston Flemings, Houston

If the Bucks are looking for a player who can turn a defensive stop into a fast-break highlight in the blink of an eye, Houston’s Kingston Flemings is that guy. Flemings is considered one of the fastest and most explosive athletes in this draft class. He’s a north-south blur who finishes above the rim with terrific authority. Playing under Kelvin Sampson, he has been molded into a defensive-first culture. That should make him a plug-and-play fit for a Milwaukee system that needs to rediscover its seriousness.

Flemings isn’t just a dunker either. Rather, he is a mid-range specialist who can also hit the long ball when the defense is weak. His ability to navigate passing lanes and stick to his man on the ball will provide an immediate upgrade to the Bucks’ perimeter defense.

Darrin Peterson, Kansas

Finally, we have to talk about Kansas’ Darin Peterson. The 6-6 scoring machine entered the year as the consensus number one overall prospect. Yes, his stock has fluctuated due to health concerns and Kansas’ late-season struggles. Still, his ceiling is as high as anyone else in the class. Peterson is perhaps the most polished offensive prospect to reach the college ranks in years. He simply has a scoring arsenal that allows him to get buckets from anywhere on the floor.

For a Bucks team that ranks 28th in scoring, adding a weapon like Peterson would be like adding high-octane fuel to a sputtering engine. There have been whispers about his intensity. However, there’s no better place to silence the critics than the NCAA Tournament. If Peterson puts in a dominant performance and shows that “Mamba mentality” scouts are looking for, he becomes the ultimate prize for a team like Milwaukee.

As new majority owner Mark Walter continues to put his stamp on the Los Angeles Lakers, the organization recently made the interesting appointment of former NCAA Championship coach Tony Bennett as an NBA Draft advisor to general manager Rob Pelinka. With March Madness approaching and the Lakers having their first round pick, there are some NBA Draft prospects teams should keep an eye on within the next month.

It’s no secret that the Lakers need a viable, long-term option at center. The DeAndre Ayton experiment has had mixed results, and while Jaxson Hayes has done a commendable job, he is at his best as an energetic guy off the bench. The Lakers could also use size on the wings.

That said, here are some of the top prospects who will play in March Madness that the Lakers should target in the 2026 NBA Draft.

1. Morez Johnson Jr. – PF/C, Michigan

Think of Johnson a bit like the current Jared Vanderbilt, with a better offense and a little more size. Johnson is exactly the kind of player the Lakers should target in the draft. He is able to slide between power forward and center, which is currently Vanderbilt’s role for the Lakers.

Johnson has been an impressive defensive player for Michigan this season, and he is projected to be drafted in the late first round should the Lakers land him. He is a versatile defender with the ability to cover the wings and then drop down and attack bigger players.

But where he excels is also on the offensive end. He’s a skilled finisher around the basket, and he’s shooting 66.7 percent from 2-point range. But not only this. He has shown he can space the floor with his 41.7 percent shooting from the 3-point line. His 3-point shot is something he has worked on since he didn’t attempt a single three as a freshman last year.

Johnson should be the Lakers’ main priority in the draft. With late selections in the first round, you may draft based on positional need rather than the best player available.

2. Jaden Quaintance – C, Kentucky

Quaintance is probably the best center prospect that may be available in the NBA Draft. He is just a puzzle. For one, it’s not yet clear whether he intends to declare for the draft or intends to return to school. Second, he has been dealing with a major knee injury that has kept him out for most of this season. In fact, his status is in doubt for Kentucky’s upcoming March Madness appearance.

But should Quaintance declare for the draft, he should be a top-two prospect for the Lakers in a worst-case scenario. The only thing is that he will need a little bit of luck to land at his projected draft spot. However, that could happen if teams are cautious about his injury situation.

Injury is definitely a risk, but the benefits almost outweigh it. He is still incredibly young and in the mold of a true center. During his freshman year at Arizona State, he showed the ability to become a true defensive anchor in the paint, averaging 2.6 blocked shots. On the offensive end of the court, he performs well around the basket. He would be a perfect fit as a threat playmaker for a playmaker like Luka Doncic.

If he were healthy, there’s no chance we’d be discussing the Lakers potentially taking him at the end of the first round. But it always happens that off-chance teams get scared due to injury and he slips away, as has happened with many players in the past. If Quinton is available when the Lakers select you, take him and don’t look back.

3. Patrick Ngongba II – C, Duke

In any other year, Ngongba would definitely be a lottery pick. A mobile big man with high potential who plays defense and even has a bit of play in his game. Definitely pick the lottery. But this is not a normal draft. Most experts consider 2026 to be one of the best draft classes in recent memory. This could benefit the Lakers because it means Ngongba will slide to the end of the first round.

If one of the above prospects is unavailable, Ngongba wouldn’t be a bad pick for the Lakers in the NBA Draft. He is still raw and can gain some strength before entering the NBA. But the talent is there. Their offensive skill-set works well with Doncic as the primary ball-handler.

On defense, Ngongba is a rim protector, which will benefit the Lakers a lot. He also has the ability to play strong post defense and dominate one-on-one situations. He competes well and has blocked an average of 1.1 shots this season.

However potentially worrying is Ngongba’s current injury situation. He was sidelined for the ACC Tournament, and his status for the NCAA Tournament is not 100 percent certain yet. Just keep an eye on if he declares for the NBA Draft.

4. Florrie Bidunga – C, Kansas

Bidunga is potentially one of the more impactful players in the draft due to his size and strength. The players mentioned above are probably better long-term prospects, but if they are all off the board by the time the Lakers make their selection, the front office needs to take a long, hard look at Bidunga.

His offensive game is more in line with Luka Doncic. He’s a finisher at the rim. He would be a perfect compliment to a playmaker like Doncic who is always ready to throw a lob pass. Bidunga is adept at pick and roll as well as roller. He’s shooting 64.5 percent from the field this season, all 2-point attempts. He moves the ball very well.

Defensively, he is an anchor in the paint. Apart from being a strong man defender, he is also a good weakside defender. He may also find success switching to the perimeter. Of his 9.2 rebounds this season, 6.1 are on the defensive end.

Bidunga’s ceiling is probably lower than other players on this list, but he is without a doubt a big man in an NBA rotation. He’s not flashy or anything like that, he just gets the job done. Profile of a strong big man. He is definitely someone who should be on the Lakers’ radar in terms of NBA Draft prospects.

5. Isaiah Evans, G/F, Duke

While most of the players on this list are bigs, the Lakers also need a 3&D wing with size. Evans is potentially among the top players in the draft who fits that profile. Should he declare for the draft, he would likely be available in the Lakers’ draft range as well.

Evans is in the midst of a breakout season, averaging 14.9 points and shooting 36.5 percent from the 3-point line as a full-time starter. He doesn’t need the ball in his hands to be effective offensively, another attribute needed to play with Doncic.

On the defensive end, he is a strong on-ball defender and has the skills to become the main point defensive player of attack. Imagine him as a potential starting wing in the NBA one day based on his ability on both ends of the court.

The upcoming draft is really based on the Lakers’ choices. Obviously if one slips in the lottery, all bets are off and you become the best player available. But if it comes to a situation of need, any one of the five players listed above should perform well. This is a deep draft, and assuming all of the above announcements, at least one of them should be available if the Lakers select.

Madness is finally upon us. Now, the Dallas Mavericks find themselves at an important crossroads that extends far beyond the final score of a single tournament game. This franchise has never been afraid to swing for the fences. Thus, March Madness represents a live-action scouting laboratory where tomorrow’s stars are groomed under the fire of pressure to win or go home. Dallas is looking to reload, searching for that missing piece that can enhance their current core. They need to turn a roster of high-potential talent into a legitimate perennial powerhouse in an unforgiving Western Conference.

As we look towards the 2026 NBA Draft, scouting departments have their sights set on the hardwood. They will evaluate which prospects have the specific blend of mental toughness and physical dominance needed to thrive under the bright lights of American Airlines Center.

2025–26 season recap

It’s been a season of identity search in Dallas. The brilliance of a roster’s brilliance is often overshadowed by its growing pains in transition. Sitting at 23-46 as of mid-March, the Mavericks find themselves out of the playoff picture. They are currently at the bottom of the Western Conference standings. Despite excellent individual efforts from Cooper Flagg, the supporting cast has struggled to find consistency. The mid-season departure of experienced leadership and a defensive rating that ranked in the bottom half of the league has led to a long winter in North Texas.

There have been moments when the offensive flow seemed unstoppable, especially in high-scoring wins over teams like Cleveland and Memphis. However, the lack of a secondary perimeter creator and reliable wing depth has ultimately hindered their ability to close out tight games.

Draft needed for 2026

As the front office turns its attention toward the 2026 NBA Draft, the onus is on finding a dynamic, high-end guard. They need someone who can eventually replace the aging and often sidelined Kyrie Irving and provide a lethal scoring punch with Flagg. Yes, the Mavericks have established a solid foundation in the frontcourt with Derek Lively II and Daniel Gafford. Nevertheless, the periphery remains a clear area of ​​concern. Specifically, Dallas needs a player who can break down defenses in the half-court and hit contested shots when the shot clock stops.

Head coach Jason Kidd has always prioritized high-IQ players who can guard multiple positions. That means any potential lottery selection has to show more than just aggressive nature. The goal is to find a versatile playmaker who won’t be a liability on the defensive end. This will ensure that the next era of Mavericks basketball is built on a balanced and durable roster.

Darrin Peterson, Kansas

If you’re looking for a pure, pure scorer who can set a stadium on fire in a matter of seconds, look no further than Darrin Peterson. The Kansas standout this year has been a revelation. He has demonstrated three-level scoring ability that makes him arguably the most sophisticated perimeter prospect in the 2026 class. Peterson has drawn legitimate comparisons to some of the league’s most creative offensive engines.

What makes him particularly interesting for Dallas is his comfort level playing both on and off the ball. He can serve as the primary starter or shift to catch-and-shoot opportunities. Versatility that would pair perfectly with Flagg’s point-forward tendencies. During March Madness, scouts will be keeping an eye on whether his efficiency holds up against the sophisticated defensive schemes of tournament play. However, his current trajectory shows he is becoming a star who can thrive in the Mavericks system.

Darius Acuff Jr., Arkansas

There is a certain “it factor” that Darius Acuff Jr. brings to the floor. That combination of swagger and skill has brought the Arkansas Razorbacks back into the national conversation. Leading the SEC in both scoring and assists, Acuff is the quintessential modern floor general. He plays with a pace and tempo that constantly keeps defenders off balance. He is adept at using deceptive handles and elite body control to find his spots regardless of defensive pressure.

For the Mavericks, Acuff represents a potential long-term solution at the point guard spot. He can facilitate for others and also be a threat to drop 30 points on any given night. Of course, questions remain about his defensive consistency. However, his offensive ceiling is undeniably high. A deep performance in the NCAA Tournament will only solidify his status as a top-five talent that Dallas’ top brass can’t ignore.

Mikel Brown Jr., Louisville

A trio of prospects worth watching include Mikel Brown Jr. His basketball IQ and steady hand have been the driving force behind Louisville’s resurgence. Brown is a traditional playwright in the best sense of the word. He has the rare ability to manipulate the defense with his eyes and deliver accurate passes to teammates. He doesn’t just play games; He organizes it. Brown rarely gets troubled by high-pressure situations or aggressive full-court presses. His shooting numbers have seen a significant increase this season. This makes him a dual-threat weapon that demands respect beyond the arc.

For Dallas, Brown provides a level of composure and secondary playmaking that can unlock the full potential of their offensive sets. Seeing how he handles the pace in the high-stakes environment of March Madness will be the ultimate litmus test for his readiness to step into a high-usage role at the professional level.

The calendar has changed in mid-March. For the basketball world, that means only one thing: the high-octane, heart-stopping drama of the NCAA Tournament. However, for Mike Dunleavy Jr. and the Golden State Warriors front office, the brackets are a scouting map for a franchise at a critical crossroads. As the “Big Three” era enters its final stretch, the Dubs are looking for the next foundational pillar to keep the Chase Center rafters busy with new banners. This year’s tournament field is absolutely loaded with top talent. The Warriors also have the potential to be a mid-lottery selection. As such, the stakes have never been higher. The pressure is on to find a player who can blend high-IQ playmaking with the modern athleticism needed to survive in the increasingly young, fast-paced Western Conference.

patience and uncertainty

It has been a rollercoaster of a 2025-26 campaign for the Warriors. They are currently 32-35 and in ninth place in the Western Conference. Despite having Jimmy Butler alongside Stephen Curry, the team has struggled with consistency and health throughout the winter months. Undoubtedly, Curry remains a force to be reckoned with. He is averaging 27.2 points per game, but the supporting cast has often been up and down.

Certainly, the emergence of Brandin Podziemski as a reliable starter and the veteran leadership of Draymond Green have kept the Dubs in the play-in hunt. However, a series of minor losses in early March have highlighted the narrow margin of error on this roster. They are a team that can beat anyone on any night. Still, they often found themselves outmatched by the length and depth of emerging powers of the West such as Oklahoma City and San Antonio.

identification of missing piece

It’s clear that the warriors’ shopping list starts with size, versatility and specific connective tissue. The front office could pursue a veteran-style prospect with immediate impact. Alternatively, they could opt for a raw, high-ceilinged wing that can carry the torch once the current stalwarts hang up their sneakers. The Warriors’ defensive rating has been in the middle of the pack this season. His comebacks have often been his weakness. They need a player who can operate within Steve Kerr’s complex offensive system. They’re looking for someone who can pass, cut and shoot.

That said, the Dubs also desperately need a physical presence who can replace multiple positions and protect the rim. The Class of 2026 offers an attractive mix of “ready-made” college stars and “one-and-done” physical specimens. This makes this March Madness the ultimate proving ground for the Warriors’ next big swing.

Yaxel Lendeborg, Michigan

If the Warriors are looking for a prospect that screams “Warriors DNA,” look no further than Michigan’s Yaxel Lendeborg. The 6’9 forward has been a statistical darling this season. He ranks second in the nation in box plus/minus and has emerged as a Swiss Army knife for the Wolverines. Lendeborg is a high-end processor who facilitates from the high post, crashes the glass with tenacity, and blocks shots at a elite rate.

This March, he will lead a top-seeded Michigan team that relies heavily on his ability to hold down the defense while opening sets on the other end. For a Golden State team that values ​​quick decision-making, Lendeborg fits like a glove. He doesn’t need 20 shots to dominate a game, and his defensive versatility will allow him to fit in perfectly in those small-ball lineups.

Nate Ament, Tennessee

On the other end of the spectrum is Nate Ament. He’s a 6’10 wing from Tennessee who represents the kind of high-upside gamble the Warriors may need to reinvent their future. Ament is the quintessential modern NBA wing. He is long, fluid and capable of scoring from all three levels. Yes, his performance has been up and down during his new campaign. Still, his flashes of talent are undeniable. He has the ability to shoot over defenders and the lateral quickness to be a disruptive force on the perimeter.

During the tournament, all eyes will be on how Ament handles the physical pressure of postseason play. If he can prove that his jumper is consistent and his defensive motor is active, he becomes an attractive option for the Warriors.

Thomas Hoff, Florida

Finally, the Warriors will have to keep a close eye on Florida’s Thomas Hoff as the Gators look to defend their national title. The 6’9-inch Hoff is a tireless competitor who does the dirty work that winning teams require. He is a dynamic finisher at the rim and a disruptive defender who can switch to guards or battle in the trenches with big men. Unlike some of the more heralded prospects, Hog excels in a role that doesn’t require the ball in his hands. This makes him an ideal fit for a Golden State roster that already features high-usage producers like Curry and Butler. His tenacity on the offensive boards and his superior perimeter shooting make him a plug-and-play candidate. Hoff has been good enough to contribute from day one. In a tournament where every possession is a battle, Hough’s ability to impact the game through his effort and intelligence will be a major storyline for NBA scouts.

draft strategy

The 2026 NBA Draft will be a defining moment for Mike Dunleavy Jr. and the Warriors. Whether they choose Lendeborg’s sophisticated, high-IQ game, Ament’s limitless ceiling, or Hoff’s battle-tested patience, they must strike gold. This March Madness is a live audition for the next chapter of Golden State Warriors basketball.

The franchise cannot afford to make safe picks that result in bench warmers. They need a difference-maker who can bridge the gap between their storied past and uncertain future. As the tournament begins, these three prospects will have a chance to prove that they belong in the blue and gold. The Warriors are watching, and so should you.

For the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder, March isn’t just about bracket chaos. This is a high-risk scouting mission. As the 2026 NCAA Tournament draws to a close, the basketball world’s eyes have turned to blue-chip stars and Cinderellas alike. However, Sam Presti and his staff are looking for something a little more surgical. They are looking for the final pieces of a dynastic puzzle that has been carefully assembled over years of calculated moves.

In the 2026 NBA Draft cycle, the stakes seem even higher as the talent pool is filled with athletes who fit the Thunder’s unique schematic DNA. This is where dreams are either forged in the fire of the Big Dance or extinguished by the pressure of the bright lights. For a team with the draft capital of Oklahoma City, each March Madness possession is a data point in a much larger, more ambitious blueprint.

title defense

All things considered, the 2025-26 NBA season is still shaping up to be another masterpiece for the Thunder. Apart from the occasional setback, this campaign has been defined by the blanket dominance of their roster. Currently sitting at the top of the standings with an incredible record of 53-15, Oklahoma City has completely transformed into the league’s most fearsome juggernaut. We’ve seen Shai Gilgeous-Alexander further cement his status as MVP. He takes charge of a team that ranks first in the NBA in both defensive rating and net rating. Besides him, Chet Holmgren has been a defensive revelation. Meanwhile, Jalen Williams has developed into a secondary playmaker of the highest order.

However, even with the best record in the league and the momentum of the defending champion, the Thunder are never satisfied. Long season experience has shown that OKC’s core is elite. That said, adding more depth on the wing and securing a knockdown perimeter threat could be an insurance policy to ensure this title window remains open for a decade.

lost contact

As we look towards the 2026 NBA Draft, the Thunder’s philosophy remains focused on the concept of positionless basketball. Because they are currently winning at such a high clip, Oklahoma City will pick up a pick in the middle to late part of the first round thanks to previously understood trades. This means Presti is looking for value and high-floor connectors rather than a consensus top three flashy names. When Presti enters the war room, he is looking for players who can grab rebounds, push breaks and make correct guesses without hesitation.

In this upcoming class, the Thunder are likely prioritizing athletes who enhance the talent of those around them while maintaining significant defensive switchability. The goal is to find a prospect who can succeed in the high-low activities that run alongside Chet or perhaps a tenacious point-of-attack defender who can ease the workload on the starting backcourt. This will ensure the bench remains just as lethal as the starting five.

Braylon Mullins, Connecticut

Braylon Mullins has emerged as one of the most intriguing names for a team like Oklahoma City. That’s mainly because he addresses the one thing every contender can never have enough of: elite girth gravitas. As a standout for UConn, Mullins has spent the season proving that he is more than a catch-and-shoot threat. He has shown an advanced ability to navigate screens and move at a pace that keeps defenders in a constant state of panic. For the Thunder, Mullins represents an ideal plug-and-play asset. He can fit into the second unit and immediately provide spacing that allows SGA and Jalen Williams to operate in the paint with zero interference.

They’ll be shot under a split microscope in the pressure cooker of March Madness. However, it is his underrated defensive tenacity and blue-collar approach to the game that truly reflects the OKC culture. If he can maintain his efficiency while leading a deep tournament run with the Huskies, he becomes almost an ideal mid-round target.

Braden Burries, Arizona

There is perhaps no player in the mid-round conversation who fits the OKC archetype more naturally than Brayden Burries. Arizona’s versatile guard has a game defined by poise and technical proficiency. Burris is a player who has a strong frame that allows him to absorb contact on drives and a high release point that makes his mid-range game nearly vulnerable. What makes him a mouth-watering prospect for Oklahoma City is his dual-threat ability as both a scorer and secondary initiator. He has the vision to find open teammates when defenses collapse. This trait fits perfectly into Mark Daigneault’s “everyone is a passer” system.

During this tournament, scouts will be paying close attention to how he handles specific physical defenders. However, Burris has already shown the ability to perform well in big moments. He manages the game with a level of maturity that is rare for his class. This makes him exactly the kind of high-ceiling, low-volatility prospect the Thunder have successfully developed in the past.

Keaton Wagler, Illinois

If the Thunder are looking for a defensive disruptor, Illinois’ Keaton Wagler is a sleeper pick. Every savvy analyst keeps him on his radar. Wagler has built a reputation as a player who has the lateral quickness to block lead guards and the length to harass wing scorers. This would make him a seamless addition to an OKC defense that is already one of the best in the league. However, it’s not just his point-of-attack defense that impresses. He has also shown a growing offensive game featuring smart cuts and a reliable corner three-pointer. This makes him a quintessential 3-and-D prospect with great playmaking.

In the high-stakes environment of March Madness, Wagler’s ability to shut down an opponent’s best player while contributing to a fluid offensive flow will be his biggest selling point. An attribute that matches perfectly with the unselfish, tough identity that has turned Oklahoma City into the gold standard of the modern NBA.

The finally fully healthy New Orleans Pelicans are keeping things interesting to end an otherwise disappointing season. Stephen A. Aside from the scuffles with Smith and the officials, Zion Williamson’s diligent efforts have been worth defending recently. With Dejounte Murray back in the rotation, James Borrego’s last big push for a full-time job will keep Crescent City fans curious for a few more weeks. Reshaping the roster without moving on from Herb Jones could easily lead to trouble through the NBA Draft.

While the Pelicans have settled at point guard with Jeremiah Fears and Dejounte Murray, and hope to find experienced center depth to mentor Derrick Queen, Yves Messi and Carlo Matkovic, the wing remains a looming question mark. Trey Murphy III and Williamson remain franchise centerpieces, but the Alabama alumnus is no longer a young prospect, and the 27-year-old’s contract is also beginning to expire.

Having picks in the 30s, courtesy of the underperforming Milwaukee Bucks (26-35), is a ray of hope for a season that started with such promise. This is a very deep draft that will yield a gem or three. Finding another second-round wing to follow in Knott’s Herb’s footsteps should be a priority.

All-in on Amari Allen

Amari Allen might be the most obvious name to track for anyone familiar with Bay South hoops history. The Herb Jones similarities are almost too precise to ignore. Beyond the shared Alabama roots and jersey number #5, Allen’s game is built on the same foundation of toughness and defense. Nate Oakes continues to praise the rookie in a way that the Pelicans will definitely take notice.

“He’s playing really well, where people are recognizing he’s a 6-foot-7, 6-foot-8 guard who defends, rebounds, makes good decisions, doesn’t turn the ball over, plays on both sides of the ball,” Oats said. “There’s a lot to be said for that, and the NBA is looking for big guards who are multi-dimensional, who are tough.”

However, Allen’s developmental timeline is a little different. Jones entered the league as an older prospect with extensive college experience after four seasons at Alabama. Allen is a new player who is still learning the game but is making great progress. His length, athleticism and defensive instincts give him the type of switchable tool that NBA teams want on the wing.

Certainly still developing offensively, but the strong 20-year-old leads the Crimson Tide in rebounding (7.8 per game) and is third in scoring (11.7). The ability to guard multiple positions and impact the game in transition makes Allen an interesting long-term project if he ultimately declares.

Pelicans appreciate Neoklis Avdalas

Neoklis Avdalas is a rare 6-foot-9 ballhandler who offers unusual defensive versatility. The 20-year-old international can immediately initiate offense, help from the perimeter and defend in the frontcourt. Avdalas can hit open catch-and-shoot shots and is quick to run the floor in transition. His frame and instincts allow him to function as a weak-side small-ball center in some lineups. It doesn’t get more Herb Jones-esque than this.

That combination of length, defensive mobility and connective playmaking makes him one of the more interesting “toolbox” wings in the class. He may move more like Luka than Lowry, but has an All-Star ceiling enough for scouts to look hard. Think of a tall Tyler Herro type, but it’s hard to really score on him. For a Pelicans team that has relied heavily on Jones to erase matchups at various positions, Avadalas could translate well into a similar role.

juke harris listens to nba draft music

Harris has been one of the most surprising names in the 2026 class. Coming off a modest freshman season in which he averaged 6.1 points in 19 minutes per game, Harris has emerged as the true leader of Wake Forest’s offense, averaging 19.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.6 steals per game on 45.4 percent shooting from the field. He scored a career-high 38 points against Boston College in late February.

The Pelicans have taken notice. Standing at 6 foot 7 inches tall with good length, Harris uses angles and body control to finish through contact, moves well off the ball, and has expanded his ball-handling to create separation and in transition. The high basketball IQ is reflected in his spacing and defensive anticipation, where he disrupts passing lanes and defends multiple positions. James Borrego could use a rotation of all of these over the last few months.

They’re really playing the blues before the basketball game on Beale Street. Ongoing discomfort and a process to address a talar bone strain have soured another Zack Eddy season, leaving fans wondering what will happen in the 2026 NBA Draft. The Memphis Grizzlies still have an investment in the 7-foot-4 Canadian as part of the future core, but the scouting department’s priority is identifying a frontcourt insurance policy as the NCAA March Madness ramps up.

Eddy played only 11 games of the 2025–26 season, averaging 13.6 points, 11.1 rebounds and 1.9 blocks before suffering an ankle strain reaction. Everyone expects him to be back in the production lineup for at least 65-80 games next season. However, this is asking a lot considering AD’s career highs in on-court mileage. Shooting Floor The same applies to identifying front-court pieces with modern NBA production demands. Memphis should try the same.

Ade Mara has a 7-foot-3 frame that would theoretically pair well with Ade, but Michigan’s paint hub has made just two three-pointers total in college and is hitting below 50% from the free-throw line. This combination clogs the vacancy to the point where few NBA rosters can productively absorb him. The same logic disqualifies Taris Reed and Flory Bidunga. Henry Vissar is a legitimate second-round name, but Kleiman’s Grizzlies are not in a position where a developmental gamble meets the urgency of the current rebuild.

Chris Cenac Jr. is crowned champion

Houston’s other freshman phenomenon is starting to heat up again. While the Kingston Flemings are getting lottery teams in the Space City, New Orleans native Chris Cenac Jr. is a player a championship team is hoping to steal. Four-time NBA champion Andre Iguodala made headlines by predicting that the 19-year-old would be the first overall pick in this draft. He is ranked 13th to 22nd overall on the consensus major boards. It’s a perfect fit for the Grizzlies.

Cenac’s defensive rebound percentage (26%) ranks him second among all freshmen, ahead of Cameron Boozer, Caleb Wilson, Nate Ament and Hannes Steinbach. He ranks in the 97th percentile in at-rim efficiency, boosted by 30 highlight dunks. Elite mobility, with the ability to switch to the perimeter and guard guards, is evident in high-major games. His length and vertical pop are serious rim protector traits that will be massive. Blocking shots and disrupting passing lanes should be no problem on the first day of NBA training camp.

Standing 6 feet 11 inches tall and weighing about 240 pounds, Senac (9.6 points, 7.6 rebounds) is a mixture of Herb Jones and Anthony Davis. That’s the roof. Natural fluid athleticism is rare for a player his size, and he has increased confidence in taking jumpers, including from beyond the arc, which could make him a modern stretch in the NBA. His floor is still higher than all the other big men not selected in the top five in the last five drafts.

It’s all about landing spots, and the Grizzlies have a great rookie role in Cenac as Ade’s sidekick. Kelvin Sampson said before the season that Cenac would be a pop man rather than a roll man, able to spot spots in transition, handle the ball and pass. The results have been substantial but certainly not shocking. There are concerns about his lack of signature skills and occasional inconsistency in performance, especially in rebounding.

ClutchPoints watched the game sitting next to the NBA decision maker and Cenac was boxed out twice in one half by the smallest player on the court. Three-point shooting (32.9%) seems to be maxed out given the free-throw (61.1%) numbers. Houston is working to break those bad habits and increase accuracy before the conference tournament begins. The Grizzlies should reap those awards for the rest of the decade.

hannes steinbach is a star

Admittedly, Hannes Steinbach is not as athletic as Cenac. However, the most decorated frontcourt freshman in the Big Ten is not on a tournament team, which is either the saddest story of March or the most convenient situation for lottery-bound organizations to do their homework. For a quick update on the Portal Era, the 19-year-old went through the Wurzburg Baskets youth program and has Basketball Bundesliga experience, but he wanted to test the NCAA waters this season.

Averaging a double-double at 18.2 points (33.3% 3PA) and 11.4 rebounds per game he was already climbing high on draft boards, so coming to the states was the right call. Even without real perimeter help and playing through frequent double-team looks, he leads the Big Ten in rebounding and has recorded 11 double-doubles. This is high-floor production the Grizzlies can use immediately. Averaged 17.4 points and 13 rebounds to lead Germany to a silver medal at the FIBA ​​U19 World Cup last summer, reflecting that championship mentality.

Tuomas Isalo would love to have reliable rebounding, high effort level and above average skills for a big man. Steinbach can be deployed everywhere and expect to be successful as a rookie, and has more progression as a shooter (71.1% FTA). Footwork, internal strength, touch, decision making, tested internationally, all the boxes are checked. Scouts view him as one of the safest bets among the bigs for a reason, even if it’s hard to envision an All-NBA upset.

Patrick Ngongba II needs time

The skilled finishing around the rim, solid vision and steady defense that fills Patrick Ngongba II’s stat sheet (10.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, 2.1 assists) draws praise from scouts. If the Grizzlies get a chance to bring the Duke star to FedEx Forum, Ja Morant will be happy to throw passes like Nikola Jokic. Ngongba II was limited as a rookie due to a lingering foot injury, averaging 3.9 points and 2.7 rebounds in 10.6 minutes, but those numbers have bounced this season (1.7 steals/block). The NBA front office believes his exponential growth trajectory is just starting to build momentum.

Nongba II will be a more reliable rim protector and better assist protector than the New Orleans Pelicans got in Yves Missy. His court-reading and instinctive adjustments to connecting with the team are far ahead of most teammates. Memphis may get a glimpse of Marc Gasol during Summer League action.

However, the 20-year-old has an extensive history of foot injuries. Ngongba II originally had two screws inserted in his right foot in high school, and last summer he was seen in a boot on his left foot. Between injuries and lack of shooting, the Grizzlies will need their second first-round selection (from Orlando).

As March Madness approaches and scouting intensifies, the discovery of the Jack Eddy insurance policy is likely to become one of the defining stories of this rebuild. The Grizzlies probably don’t know yet what their next core looks like, but the path almost certainly passes through the frontcourt class of the 2026 draft.