NBA executives are swarming conference tournaments to evaluate the 2026 draft class, with the Big 12 tournament serving as a key scouting ground. All 30 NBA teams attended, including lead decision-makers, as teams jockey for position with up to eight franchises potentially drafting for need. The depth of this class has executives buzzing, particularly given concerns about the 2027 draft's strength.

Darryn Peterson and AJ Dybantsa remain the consensus top two prospects, though their paths have differed dramatically. Peterson, currently projected No. 1 by ESPN's Jeremy Woo, has battled injuries throughout his Kansas career but showcased his scoring prowess with 27 points against Kansas State. Dybantsa, the nation's leading freshman scorer, broke Kevin Durant's Big 12 tournament freshman scoring record with 40 points Tuesday. One Western Conference scout noted the race is "nowhere near settled," with Peterson's talent making him the favorite despite his uneven season.

Cameron Boozer emerges as the most intriguing prospect at No. 3, posting video-game numbers: 22.7 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game while shooting 58%. His production has some executives arguing he belongs in the top tier, though questions about his athleticism persist. Meanwhile, North Carolina's Caleb Wilson, who suffered a season-ending thumb injury, presents the opposite profile with his raw athleticism and coast-to-coast ability. An East executive believes Wilson "could easily become a top-three player" in this draft.