The 2026 NBA Combine in Chicago has provided a fascinating insight into the prospects who could shape the league's future. While some players have shone brightly, others have fallen short of expectations, leaving teams with difficult decisions. In my opinion, the combine has highlighted the importance of a holistic approach to scouting, where physical attributes are just one piece of the puzzle. Here's a deep dive into the winners and losers, with a focus on the human element behind the numbers.
The Rising Stars
Baba Miller (Cincinnati): Miller's performance was a breath of fresh air for teams seeking a versatile big man. His measurements, including a 7'1.5" wingspan and a 9'3" standing reach, were impressive, but it was his on-court display that truly stood out. Miller's ability to finish with both power and finesse, coupled with his passing skills and rebounding prowess, makes him an enticing second-round pick. In my view, he's a player who could surprise many if given the right opportunity.
Jaden Bradley (Arizona): Bradley's Swiss Army Knife-like abilities were on full display in the first scrimmage. His 10 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds showcased his versatility and physicality. As a point guard, Bradley's ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game is a rare find. I believe his performance has solidified his place in the late second round, and he may even move up a tier.
Ja'Kobi Gillespie (Tennessee): Gillespie's instant-offense weapon potential was evident in his 24 points in the first half. His shotmaking ability, combined with his playmaking skills, makes him an attractive prospect. Gillespie's performance at the combine has maximized his draft stock, and I predict he'll hear his name called on June 24th.
Cameron Carr (Baylor): Carr's athletic testing and measurements were already impressive, but his on-court display was even more remarkable. His ability to separate and shoot over defenders, coupled with his 42.5" max vertical, makes him a mid-first-round lock. Carr's defensive numbers, including a 4.0 block percentage, further solidify his value as a versatile shotmaker.
The Surprising Performances
Dillon Mitchell (St. John's): Mitchell's game-high +17 performance showcased his ability to impact games without needing creation or shooting. His athleticism for finishing, strong passing instincts, and defensive tools make him a glue-guy prospect. While his value may be team-specific, his performance on Wednesday was a strong selling point.
Morez Johnson Jr. (Michigan): Johnson's measurements and athletic tests were already impressive, but his performance in Chicago confirmed his outstanding physical tools and movement. His size, weight, length, and reach mirror players like Naz Reid and Wendell Carter Jr., but Johnson shows far more functional athletic traits. His 39" max vertical and second-fastest pro lane time further solidify his value.
Darius Acuff Jr. (Arkansas): Acuff's measurements, including a 6'2" height and a 6'7" wingspan, are very similar to Damian Lillard's from the 2012 NBA Combine. His size, weight, and length make him an intriguing prospect, and his performance in Chicago should reassure lottery teams. I believe Acuff's offensive skills and physical strength will make him a valuable asset for any team.
The Disappointing Performances
Koa Peat (Arizona): Peat's measurements, including a 6'7" height and a 6'11.25" wingspan, didn't provide any new insights. His struggles in shooting drills, including a 6-of-25 spot-up three and a 10-of-25 mid-range jumper, were concerning. Despite his strong athletic testing numbers, NBA teams are hesitant to commit to a forward with wing height who doesn't create, shoot, or possess big-man defensive traits.
Amari Allen (Alabama): Allen's listed NCAA measurements, including a 6'8" height, didn't align with his official NBA measurements, which came in at just 6'5.25". This discrepancy was unusual and disappointing, especially given his 6'8" wingspan. Allen's positional size has been a selling point, but this discrepancy raises questions about his true potential.
Joshua Jefferson (Iowa State): Jefferson's athletic testing numbers, including the slowest pro lane agility time and bottom-third verticals, were disappointing. His performance in shooting drills was also middle-to-bottom-of-the-pack. While his size and reach are impressive, his lack of explosiveness and poor shooting performance make him a borderline, fringe first-round prospect. In my opinion, Jefferson's decision to skip scrimmaging further hurt his draft stock.
The Human Element
The 2026 NBA Combine has provided a fascinating insight into the prospects who could shape the league's future. While some players have shone brightly, others have fallen short of expectations, leaving teams with difficult decisions. In my view, the combine has highlighted the importance of a holistic approach to scouting, where physical attributes are just one piece of the puzzle. The human element behind the numbers is what truly separates the good from the great, and it's this element that teams must consider when making their draft picks.
