ESPN projects Duke duo Boozer and Evans in 2026 NBA draft
Cameron Boozer and Isaiah Evans are projected as first-round selections, while Maliq Brown’s standing remains uncertain amid prospect withdrawals.
ESPN released its latest NBA mock draft on Tuesday, projecting two Duke Blue Devils as first-round selections in the 2026 draft. Cameron Boozer, the previous year’s Wooden Award winner, is projected to be selected third overall by the Memphis Grizzlies. Sharpshooter Isaiah Evans is projected to go to the Detroit Pistons with the 21st overall selection.
Boozer averaged 22.5 points, 10.2 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.4 steals during his freshman season. Evans led the Duke team in three-pointers made during his sophomore campaign, shooting over 36 per cent from beyond the arc. He averaged 15 points, 3.2 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and 0.7 steals during the season.
The Pistons ranked tied for 29th in three-pointers made per game, suggesting a potential need for perimeter shooting that Evans could address. However, such team needs are based on statistical rankings and should be viewed as potential fits rather than confirmed intent.
Maliq Brown, who spent two seasons at Duke, was not included in the first round and currently ranks 82nd on ESPN’s draft big board. Unlike new transfer John Blackwell, Brown will not be eligible to return to school after four seasons in college.
The accuracy of Brown’s ranking may not reflect his true standing, as many collegiate prospects ranked ahead of him have already withdrawn from draft consideration. Mock draft projections are speculative and subject to change.
