The 2026 NBA Draft is still far off, but early scouting already points to several underrated prospects flying under the radar. This breakdown highlights 2026 NBA Draft sleepers who could rise fast as their development catches up with their talent. From college transfers to international prospects, strong list of overlooked college studs aiming to make a signifcant impact on NBA team.

Yaxel Lendeborg

College Basketball Player of the Year. He is a potential Naismith Trophy Winner in 2025. In my opinion, he is the most overlooked NBA Draft Prospect. The young man has the skills to make a real impact on a competitive lottery team. Pleasure to watching Michigan’s forward putting Michigan as a catalyst #2 team in the country.

Lendeborg Journey to Michigan

He began his humbling journey by playing Community College Basketball at Arizona Western. Then he transferred to UAB, making a name for himself on both sides of the ball. He won AAC Defensive Player of the Year, AAC Tournament MVP, and first team All-AAC honors in his first year at UAB.

Caught my eye second season with UAB during the NCAA Tournament, breaking records in the regular season with 45 career double-doubles. Improved his statistics by a few points each averaging 17.7 points, 11.4 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.8 blocks and 1.7 steals per game.

Yaxel Transferring to Michigan

Yaxel is the most sought after talent in college basketball as the #1 transfer portal player. Several teams wanted him, but Michigan won. His NIL deal is worth three million dollars. I don’t blame him for staying his senior year.

Tougher competition doesn’t fear him as he dropped 25 points on St Johns, Double Double against Gonzaga in the Players Era Festival Championship. Averaging 16.4 ppg, 7.2 rebounds, 3.7 assist.

Core Skills & Strengths

• Elite Rebounding: Lendeborg is one of the most dominant rebounders in college basketball. He uses his 7-foot-4 wingspan and high motor to secure second-chance opportunities.
• Playmaking Big Man: He essentially operates as a “Point Forward.” He possesses a high basketball IQ and a 3:1 assist-to-turnover ratio—a stat usually reserved for elite point guards. He is a primary facilitator in Michigan’s offense, capable of passing out of the post or leading a fast break.
• Defensive Versatility: A two-time AAC Defensive Player of the Year, he can guard positions 1 through 5. He is an elite shot-blocker (averaging near 2.0 BPG) and a disruptor in passing lanes (nearly 2.0 SPG).
• Three-Level Scoring: While most effective near the rim (shooting over 80% within five feet), he has significantly improved his outside shot. In his first season at Michigan, he has shown the ability to shoot over 40% from 3-point range on increased volume.
• Efficiency: He is a high-efficiency finisher, often ranking in the top percentiles for points per shot. He rarely forces bad looks, evidenced by a career-high 30-point game with zero turnovers.

Prediction-Top 15 to 25 first round pick. Comparison-Boris Diaw. Key Role Player on a Championship Contender Team.

Brayden Burries

All eyes on Top 5 First Round Talent Koa Peat and Bryce James(Lebron’s son) less conversation on the Freshman 5 STAR recruit shooting guard Brayden Burries, Key contributor to the #1 team in the country Arizona Wildcats. 

Love his tenacity, pro ready body taking advantage of his physical presence against smaller guards, always appreciate watching him play.

Burries Arizona Freshman Career

Showing off his offensive prowess currently as #2 scorer for the Wildcats averaging 13.8 ppg, close to 35 percent from the 3 point line. Potential Big 12 Freshman Player of the Year right now because of his great statistics in a tough conference beating out his teammate Koa Peat.

Alabama (Dec 13): Career-high 28 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 three pointers.

Auburn (Dec 6): 16 points and 5 rebounds.

Brayden Burries Core Basketball Skills

• Three-Level Scoring: Burries is a confident offensive threat. He is particularly strong in the mid-range, utilizing clean mechanics and a high elevation on his pull-up jumper. He has also shown an improved perimeter touch, notably hitting five three-pointers in a breakout performance against Alabama.
• Physicality & Finishing: He uses his 205-pound frame and broad shoulders to absorb contact on drives to the rim. He is a creative finisher who uses pump fakes and body control to generate high-percentage looks in traffic.
• Defensive Anticipation: One of his standout early-season traits is his defensive activity. He averages nearly 2 steals per game, showing elite instincts in passing lanes and the lateral mobility to guard multiple positions on the perimeter.
• Playmaking Versatility: While he often plays off the ball next to point guard Jaden Bradley, Burries is a capable secondary ball-handler. He shows strong decision-making with a low turnover rate and is effective at making reads out of the pick-and-roll.
• Elite Rebounding for a Guard: He tracks down long rebounds consistently, a skill that saw him average nearly 9 rebounds per game during his senior year of high school.

Prediction- First Round Lottery Pick & Comparison-Josh Hart.

Neoklis Avdalas

European Talent is coming to America more than ever before because the NIL Deals and I’m all here for it pleasure watching these kids playing European style basketball. Virginia Tech is taking advantage of the opportunity by getting #1 International Prospect Neoklis Avdalas.

Avdalas Greek Basketball League Career

Before stepping foot on the Virginia Tech court was 2x Greek League Best Young Player in 2024 and 2025. Won the Greek Cup in 2021 and most improved Greek Player in 2025.

Since he was 15 years old been playing against grown men in the Greek Basketball League and Euroleague toughest league outside of the NBA. ^{Peristeri BC (2024–25): Under legendary Greek Player now coach Vassilis Spanoulis, he had a breakout professional season. He averaged} 8.1 points and 2.5 rebounds per game, shooting a career-high 35.7% from three-point range^.

Before crossing over competed at the U20 Eurobasket Tournament leading the entire tournament in assist per game which is impressive for a forward.

V-Tech Basketball Transfer

Leading the team with 10-2 record, second on the team in scoring averaging 14.6 points per game. However scored most points per game with 33 against Providence. Impressively leads the V-Tech team in assist with 5 per game.

Neoklis Avdalas Core Basketball Skills 

1. “Point-Forward” Playmaking

At 6-foot-9, Avdalas is essentially acting as the primary initiator for the Hokies.

• Elite Vision: He is currently averaging 5.0 assists per game, which is extraordinary for his size. In a December matchup against South Carolina, he nearly recorded a triple-double with 13 points, 8 rebounds, and 8 assists.
• Pace and Poise: Having played professionally in the EuroLeague, he never looks rushed. Scouts rave about his “advanced feel”—he manipulates defenses with his eyes and uses his 6-foot-9 frame to pass over smaller guards.

2. Explosive Scoring Bursts

While he is a facilitator first, Avdalas has shown he can “take over” games as a pure scorer.

• The 30-Point Club: He has already recorded two 30-point games this season (vs. Providence and Western Carolina).
• Shooting Range: His 3-point shot has translated better than expected, hovering around 37%. In his 30-point eruption against Western Carolina, he scored 24 points in the second half alone, hitting four 3-pointers and showing a lethal “turnaround jay” from the elbow.

3. Defensive Impact & Rim Protection

Unlike some offensive-minded international prospects, Avdalas is a high-level “event creator” on defense.

• Length and Timing: He is using his 6-foot-11 wingspan to average nearly 1.0 block and 1.0 steal per game.
• Versatility: Virginia Tech often uses him to switch onto multiple positions. His block on the rim against Western Carolina (where he swatted a layup into the floor) highlighted a defensive motor that many scouts didn’t realize was so high.

Comparison- Deni Avdija and Hedo Türkoğlu. Late first round pick.

Zuby Ejiofor

The heart, the soul, the captain of the St Johns Red Storm new era is Power Forward Zuby Ejiofor. Most Important Transfer Portal Signing so far under the St Johns Pitino Era.

Kansas cast off to the captain of St Johns. Great player who sets the tone always appreciate his hustle, doing the dirty work. Every NBA Team needs a player like this type of player who sets the tone in practice, on the court, irreplaceable players.

Zuby Ejiofor St Johns Career

1. The Transfer & Development (2023–24)

After playing only 5 minutes per game at Kansas, Ejiofor transferred to St. John’s to play for Rick Pitino.

• The “Wait Your Turn” Year: In his first season at St. John’s, he served as a backup to star center Joel Soriano. While his stats were modest (4.3 PPG, 3.1 RPG), he began showing flashes of the high-motor defense and rebounding that would later define his game.

Shows real character transferring from Kansas to lesser program in St Johns not playing but grinded in practice improving. Coach Pitino absolutely loves Zuby says he’s one of the hardest workers in his coaching year.

2. The Breakout Junior Season (2024–25)

This was the season Ejiofor became a household name. He spearheaded St. John’s to their first Big East regular-season title in 40 years (27-4 record).

• Awards: He was named Big East Most Improved Player and an All-Big East First Team selection.
• The Record Breaker: He led the entire nation in offensive rebounding rate (4.4 per game).

3. Senior Leadership & Dominance (2025–26)

Entering his final year, Ejiofor reached “superstar” status, being named the unanimous Big East Preseason Player of the Year.

• Defensive Historical Run: In December 2025, he went on a historic defensive tear, recording 20 blocks over a three-game span—the most by any player in the country.
• Current Numbers: He is averaging 13.9 PPG, 7.2 RPG, and 2.8 BPG, while also emerging as a high-level passer with nearly 3 assists per game.

Prediction- Montrez Harell & Jaylin Williams. Late first round pick to early 2nd round pick.

David Mirkovic

Another European transfer coming overseas from Montenegro to play for Illinois Basketball. Talented freshman forward being a great contributor to No.18 ranked Illinois team. Love watching his Point Forward skills and high octane style on the court. Great talent European Talent.

David Mirkovic Montenegro and Fighting Illini  Career

David Mirkovic started out playing as a teenager in the Adriatic  League playing against grown men from there 20”s to 30’s as Mirkovic is still physically maturing. Holding his own in the ABA League. Averaging 8.6 points per game, 6.4 rebounds and shooting 35% from three.

Dominant in the U19 games Averaging great stats from 23 per game, 14 rebounds and 4.7 assist per game.

Crossed overseas to play with the deep International roster the Fighting Illini six players are from Europe. Beautiful Mix of Basketball to watch especially from Mirkovic.

Current Fighting Illini stats- 13.6 ppg, 8.8 rebounds, 2.4 assist per game. Best game so far was against Big Ten rival Ohio State, dropping 22 points going 4 out of 5 from 3 point range. Recorded four double doubles so far in 2025 and that statistic will continue to increase.

Looking forward to watching Mirkovic compete against tougher schedule as he gets more comfortable playing Big Ten Teams and Competive non conference games.

Mirkovic Core Basketball Skills

• Elite Rebounding: Mirković is a relentless rebounder who currently leads the Illini with 8.8 rebounds per game. He made history earlier this season with a 27-point, 21-rebound performance against Colgate—the first 20-20 game for an Illinois player in over 50 years.
• “Point-Forward” Playmaking: Growing up as a point guard before a growth spurt, he retains a guard’s mentality. He averages 2.4 assists per game and is comfortable bringing the ball up the floor or facilitating the offense from the high post.
• Three-Level Scoring: He is a sophisticated scorer with a smooth shooting touch. He is currently shooting 35% from three-point range and is an efficient 81.8% from the free-throw line, making him a primary threat in pick-and-pop situations.
• Interior Physicality: Despite his skill on the perimeter, Mirković is a rugged interior presence. He uses his 255-pound frame to finish through contact and exploit mismatches against smaller defenders in “booty ball” (post-up) situations.
• High Motor and Edge: Coach Brad Underwood often highlights David’s competitive fire and “intensity.” He plays with a veteran-like poise, developed during his three seasons playing professionally in the Adriatic (ABA) League.

Isaiah Evans

While Cameron Boozer is undeniably the “gravity point” for Duke this season, Isaiah Evans is quickly proving he is much more than just a supporting act.

As of late 2025, Evans has transformed from a “microwave scorer” off the bench into a starting sophomore centerpiece who dictates the game’s momentum alongside Boozer.

If Boozer is the engine, Evans is the explosive gear that Duke turns to when they need to blow a game open.

Caught my eye having that clutch gene, playing ferocious on the court, seems like a natural leader in the lockeroom which every team needs. Surprised there’s less conversation about Isiah Evans has all the qualities look for in NBA impactful player.

Isaiah Evans Duke Career

Isaiah Evans freshman year was a bang off the bat took time more of a specialized offensive spark plug but changed the games momentum. His national arrival came on December 4, 2024, against No. 2 Auburn. He exploded for 18 points in the first half alone, hitting six three-pointers to lead a Duke comeback victory.

Despite playing only 13.8 minutes per game, he managed to score 6.8 PPG, showing an incredibly high points-per-minute efficiency.

Most highly ranked freshman declare for the NBA but he smartly stayed as he definitely to improve in several areas Transformed his wiry freshman body into adding weight and muscle to his two guard frame.

Sophomore season, Evans has nearly doubled his scoring average while showing massive growth as a facilitator and rim protector. First game of the year against Texas scored 23 points against a tough Texas team. Throughout this year putting on defensive statements blocking Florida five times very impressive statistic for a shooting guard.

Evans showing in 2025 he’s an all-around shooting guard. Earning himself the name “Slim Reaper”. Currently averaging 12.5 points per game, 3.2 rebounds. 1.7 assist and increasing his playing time to 25 minutes.

Isaiah Core Basketball Skills

1. Elite “Gravity” Shooting

Evans remains one of the premier shooters in the country, but his sophomore year has added a new layer of shot-making poise.

2. The Defensive Leap (Rim Protection)

Emerging as a disruptive defensive wing. Used his length to  collapse passing lanes. Stopping top two guards.

3. Secondary Playmaking

Evans has improved his basketball IQ and vision. Much better passer at finding his teammates. Willingness to make the extra  pass.

Projection- Late 1st/Early 2nd round. Comparison-Malik Beasley and Gary Trent Jr.

Andrej Stojakovic

As the son of three-time NBA All-Star Peja Stojaković, Andrej carries a legendary name, but he has carved out his own identity as a crafty, three-level scorer.

Andrej Stojaković is a 6’7″ junior guard for the No. 18 Illinois Fighting Illini and one of the most versatile scorers in the Big Ten. After starting his career at Stanford and blossoming at Cal, he transferred to Illinois for the 2025–26 season, where he has become a foundational piece of Brad Underwood’s offense.

Andrej playing with the European stable of talent fits right in  perfectly as No.18 Fighting Illini is one of the most underrated  college basketball teams right now.

Stojakovic Illinois career

Centered on the role as a Key scorer on this deep talented team, second leading scorer on the team. Points per game: 15.1 PPG Rebounds per game: 3.4 RPG, Assists per game: 1.1 APG. 23 points and a late block in a win over #11 Texas Tech.

Stojaković has been a key offensive piece for Illinois, producing multiple high-scoring outings early in the 2025-26 season.

Stojaković is the bridge between the Illini’s elite backcourt (Kylan Boswell) and their massive frontline (David Mirković and the Ivišić twins).

Stojakovic Core Basketball Skills

1. Advanced “Downhill” Scoring

The biggest misconception about Andrej is that he’s just a shooter. At Illinois, he has proven to be a slashing wing who thrives on getting to the rim.

• Absorbing Contact: At 6’7″ and 215 lbs, he is exceptional at using his frame to shield the ball. He currently shoots over 60% on 2-point attempts, often finishing through fouls.

2. The ” теоретический” (Theoretical) Sniper

While he is currently struggling from behind the arc at Illinois (shooting 21.4%), scouts remain high on his shooting potential because:

• The Mechanics: His stroke is fluid and consistent. The low percentage is largely viewed as a “slump” combined with adjusting to new spacing.
• Free Throw Correlation: He is a career 81.8% free-throw shooter. In scouting, high FT% is the best indicator that a player’s three-point shot will eventually “catch up.”

3. Under-the-Radar Defensive Impact

Earlier this season, Andrej went viral among Illini fans for an “elite” defensive performance against Texas Tech.

• Defensive IQ: He has “active hands” in passing lanes and rarely gets lost in off-ball rotations, a sign of the high basketball IQ he developed growing up around the pro game.

Prediction- Early second round to mid second round pick. Comparison is Bogdan Bogdanović.

The NBA Draft is more than just the names called in the first ten minutes. History has shown us this time and again. There is more to the draft than those initial announcements. The draft involves much more than just those initial announcements. Every surefire lottery pick that underwhelms is countered by a Jalen Brunson or a Desmond Bane. These are players whose ‘lack of upside’ was actually just a lack of visibility. The prospects we’ve discussed today may not have the highlight reels. They may not have the social media buzz of the top three. However, they possess the fundamental ‘swing skills’ and mental toughness that translate to winning basketball. On draft night, pay close attention to where these names land. They might just be the ones we’re talking about as the ‘steals of the draft’ three years from now.”