If Cooper Flagg had remained in the 2026 NBA Draft class instead of reclassifying to 2024, this might have gone down as the most talent-rich class in decades. But with Flagg already selected No. 1 overall in 2024, the spotlight now turns to three elite prospects battling for the top overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft: AJ Dybantsa (BYU), Darryn Peterson (Kansas), and Cameron Boozer (Duke).
These future NBA stars aren’t just highly ranked—they’re transforming the game with their elite tools, basketball IQ, and two-way dominance.
⭐ AJ Dybantsa: BYU’s 6’9” Scoring Machine
Position: Small Forward
Height: 6’9”
School: BYU
2026 Draft Projection: Top 3 — Potential No. 1 Overall
Arguably the most athletic wing in the 2026 draft class, AJ Dybantsa brings an NBA-ready frame, elite explosiveness, and polished offensive skills to BYU. A natural small forward with shooting guard agility and power forward length, Dybantsa is a three-level scorer who creates space with footwork, uses his length to finish through contact, and dunks with force in transition.
He’s also developing as a passer and defender, making his case as the most complete player in this class. With the spotlight firmly on him in the Big 12 this season, Dybantsa could cement himself as the No. 1 pick by leading BYU on a deep tournament run.
Key Traits:
• Explosive athleticism
• Smooth jumper and mid-range game
• NBA-ready body and elite upside
• Strong defensive instincts on the wing
🔥 Darryn Peterson: Kansas’ Dynamic Combo Guard
Position: Combo Guard
Height: 6’5”
School: Kansas
2026 Draft Projection: Top 3
After dominating last year at Prolific Prep in California—where he averaged 30.4 points, 7.4 assists, and 7.2 rebounds—Darryn Peterson brings his elite two-way skillset to Kansas. At 6’5”, Peterson is a rare blend of scoring, vision, and poise. He creates his own shot effortlessly, leveraging top-tier ball-handling and quick burst to get past defenders or pull up for smooth jumpers.
Peterson isn’t just an offensive juggernaut. On defense, he locks up opposing ball-handlers, showing lateral quickness, anticipation, and the ability to switch onto wings. His iso-scoring and playmaking could make him the most NBA-ready guard in this draft.
Key Traits:
• Elite shot creation and handle
• Advanced passing and court vision
• High motor and defensive toughness
• Natural leadership and clutch gene
🧠 Cameron Boozer: Duke’s Versatile Big with a Guard’s Mind
Position: Power Forward
Height: 6’9”
School: Duke
2026 Draft Projection: Top 3
Cameron Boozer, son of former NBA All-Star Carlos Boozer, might be the most fundamentally sound player in this class. After years of overpowering high school competition with his size, strength, and touch, Boozer now brings his physicality and finesse to Duke. A skilled passer, strong rebounder, and fluid shooter, Boozer can play inside and out, making him a modern frontcourt weapon.
What separates Boozer is his IQ—he reads the game like a guard, always making the right decision. And when he decides to attack, defenders can’t handle his downhill power and finishing. His ability to guard multiple positions adds major value on defense.
Key Traits:
• Strong finishing and touch in the paint
• High IQ playmaking and vision
• Reliable shooting from mid-range and deep
• Switchable defender, great communicator on court
📈 Draft Depth: Nate Ament & Chris Cenac Jr.
While the spotlight is on Dybantsa, Peterson, and Boozer, other elite talents like Nate Ament and Chris Cenac Jr. are close behind.
• Nate Ament is a long, athletic forward with a growing offensive arsenal and elite defensive tools.
• Chris Cenac Jr. brings two-way upside with shot-blocking, rebounding, and the ability to stretch the floor.
Both project as top-5 picks, depending on development and team needs.
👀 What If Cooper Flagg Stayed?
With Cooper Flagg reclassifying and going No. 1 overall in 2024, the 2026 class was left without its undisputed top dog. But that only makes this draft more fascinating. Rather than a clear favorite, we’re now watching a fierce three-way race to the top between Dybantsa, Peterson, and Boozer—each bringing a unique style and case for the No. 1 pick.
If Flagg had stayed, this class would’ve been generational. Even without him, the 2026 NBA Draft is shaping up to be one of the deepest and most talent-rich in recent memory.
🔎 Final Thoughts: Who Goes No. 1 in 2026?
• If you want NBA-ready explosiveness and wing dominance: AJ Dybantsa is your guy.
• If you want a lead guard who controls the game on both ends: Darryn Peterson is the one.
• If you want a modern big who does it all with poise: Cameron Boozer is the pick.
No matter who rises to the top, one thing is clear: The 2026 NBA Draft is going to be must-watch basketball history.
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