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Darryn Peterson continues to hold a narrow edge over AJ Dybantsa and Cameron Boozer in the early debate for the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, though scouts agree the race is far from settled.

All three freshmen are viewed as legitimate top selections, with team fit and late-season development likely to influence the final order.

Peterson leads ESPN’s latest Big Board, with evaluators frequently pointing to his offensive versatility and ability to handle heavy usage as key advantages.

The 6-foot-6 Kansas guard averaged 20 points in his first three games before a hamstring injury sidelined him for several contests. He returned December 7 against Missouri and scored 17 points in 23 minutes, quickly reminding scouts of his impact.

“To me he’s No. 1 and I don’t know what scenario [the others] can get to that would have me bump [him down],” an Eastern Conference scout told ESPN. “He’s so cold and collected and poised and consistent.”

Dybantsa remains firmly in contention thanks to his size and versatility. The 6-foot-9 BYU forward is averaging 20.9 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 3.4 assists, and his 28-point performance against Clemson showcased his ability to take over games.

One Western Conference scout said, “The positional versatility, the size, is so unique.” Concerns persist about his three-point consistency and ball-stopping tendencies.

Boozer has surged into the conversation after emerging as a National Player of the Year favorite at Duke. He is averaging 23.0 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 3.8 assists while leading all draft prospects in PER.

“At some point being the best player at every level has to pay off,” an Eastern Conference scout said. Questions about Boozer’s explosiveness remain, but his production and efficiency continue to keep him firmly in the No. 1 discussion.

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