Clippers draft Keaton Wagler at No. 5

Jun 24, 2026 1:40 AM

The Clippers used the fifth overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft to select Illinois guard Keaton Wagler, one of the biggest risers in this year’s class.

Wagler is coming off an outstanding freshman season in which he helped lead Illinois to the Final Four while averaging 17.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game.

He earned the Jerry West Award as the nation’s top guard, was named a Second Team All-American, and took home Big Ten Freshman of the Year honors.

The 6-foot-6 combo guard impressed scouts with his shooting, playmaking, and versatility.

Capable of playing both on and off the ball, Wagler is viewed as a player who can fit alongside a variety of backcourt partners despite questions about his athleticism and physical upside.

His selection gives the Clippers another young building block next to Darius Garland, who was acquired from Cleveland during the season.

Wagler’s rise has been one of the biggest stories of the draft cycle after entering his freshman year largely off the radar before developing into a top-five pick.

The move comes at a pivotal time for the franchise as questions continue to surround Kawhi Leonard’s long-term future, with the veteran star entering the final year of his contract.