The 2026 NBA Combine has revealed some intriguing winners and losers, shedding light on the potential future stars and those who may need to prove themselves further. Here's a deep dive into the key takeaways from the event, with a focus on personal commentary and analysis.
Winners
Baba Miller (Cincinnati)
Baba Miller stood out as a forward with exceptional measurements and foot speed. His 6'10.5" height, 208.2 lbs weight, 7'1.75" wingspan, and 9'3" standing reach showcased a well-proportioned frame. Miller's performance in the first scrimmage was impressive, scoring 20 points and demonstrating his versatility with inside and outside shooting. His senior year double-double average and 3.7 assists per game further solidify his case as a second-round pick, especially after a previous dip in his draft stock.
Jaden Bradley (Arizona)
Jaden Bradley, a point guard, showcased his versatility in the first scrimmage with 10 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds. His 6'2.5" height, 205.4 lbs weight, 6'6.75" wingspan, and 8'0" standing reach make him a Swiss Army Knife-type player. Bradley's ability to slash, shoot mid-range, set up teammates, and play physically positions him as a late-second-round prospect, potentially moving up a tier.
Ja'Kobi Gillespie (Tennessee)
Ja'Kobi Gillespie, a 5'11.75" tall guard, lit up the first half of the scrimmage with 24 points, including five three-pointers. Despite his small measurements, Gillespie's shotmaking production and playmaking at Tennessee make him an instant-offense weapon. His performance at the Combine further cements his draft stock, with teams likely to take notice of his ability to score and create.
Cameron Carr (Baylor)
Cameron Carr's athletic testing and measurements already hinted at his Combine success. His 6'4.5" height, 184.4 lbs weight, 7'0.5" wingspan, and 8'8" standing reach, coupled with a 42.5" max vertical and fastest pro lane agility time, showcased his physical tools. Carr's ability to separate and shoot over defenders, along with his defensive numbers, positions him as a mid-first-round pick.
Morez Johnson Jr. (Michigan)
Morez Johnson Jr.'s measurements and athletic tests were already impressive, and the Combine results further solidified his potential. His size, weight, length, and reach mirror players like Naz Reid and Wendell Carter Jr. With confirmed functional athletic traits, including a 39" max vertical and second-fastest pro lane time, Johnson Jr. is a draft prospect with outstanding physical tools.
Darius Acuff Jr. (Arkansas)
Darius Acuff Jr.'s measurements, 6'2", 185.8 lbs, and 6'7" wingspan, closely resemble those of Damian Lillard and Immanuel Quickley. His size, weight, and length may have initially raised concerns about defensive targeting, but his offensive capabilities and physical strength could make him a valuable asset for teams seeking a smaller guard.
Alex Karaban (Connecticut)
Alex Karaban's measurements, 6'6.75" height, 225.2 lbs weight, 6'11" wingspan, and 8'8.5" standing reach, align with those of a wing or small-ball 4. His standing vertical improvement from 2024, along with his shooting accuracy, make him a strong prospect. Karaban's explosiveness and shooting ability could be a valuable addition to any team.
Kingston Flemings (Houston)
Kingston Flemings' all-around performance on Tuesday was impressive. He led in the three-point star drill and spot-up threes, showcasing his shooting ability. His athletic testing results, including top-five finishes in max vertical and pro lane agility, further solidify his status as a complete player.
Losers
Koa Peat (Arizona)
Koa Peat's measurements and performance in shooting drills did not impress scouts. His 6'7" height, 245 lbs weight, 6'11.25" wingspan, and struggles in spot-up threes and mid-range jumpers raise concerns. NBA teams are hesitant to invest in a forward with wing height who lacks creation, shooting, and defensive big-man traits.
Amari Allen (Alabama)
Amari Allen's positional size has been a selling point, but there was a discrepancy between his listed and official measurements. His 6'5.25" height and 6'8" wingspan are not overwhelming, and his lack of explosiveness is a concern. Allen's performance at the Combine may have been affected by the measurement discrepancy.
Tyler Tanner (Vanderbilt)
Measuring under 5'11", Tyler Tanner's draft stock is impacted. His athletic testing numbers are strong, but his height is a red flag. With only five NBA players under 166 pounds, Tanner's prospects may be limited, especially with Trae Young as the sole star outlier. However, his unique dunk and block rates hint at outlier potential.
Joshua Jefferson (Iowa State)
Joshua Jefferson's athletic testing results were underwhelming, with the slowest pro lane agility time, bottom-third verticals, and poor shooting drills. His decision to skip scrimmages may have further harmed his draft prospects, making him more vulnerable as a borderline, fringe first-rounder.
Takeaway
The 2026 NBA Combine showcased a range of players with varying levels of success. While some stood out for their physical tools and performance, others struggled to impress scouts. The event highlights the importance of measurements, athletic testing, and scrimmage performances in shaping a player's draft stock. As the draft approaches, these players will need to continue proving their worth and showcasing their unique skills to secure their future in the NBA.
