Arizona Wildcats Freshman Brayden Burries Projected as Potential 2026 NBA First-Round Pick in Latest Mock Draft

Arizona Wildcats freshman Brayden Burries has declared for the 2026 NBA Draft, according to an announcement made via Instagram on April 24, 2026.

The declaration marks Burries as Arizona’s second one-and-done player to enter the draft this year, doubling the number of underclassmen departures from the program following the 2025-26 season.

Burries, a guard, had a standout freshman campaign, averaging 16.1 points per game while shooting 49 percent from the field and 39 percent from three-point range. He led the team in scoring and three-pointers made, with 70 made triples over the course of the season.

His performances included multiple 20-point games, highlighted by a season-high 31-point effort in an 88-79 victory over Colorado on March 7, 2026. He also recorded 20 points, 12 rebounds, and five assists in a win against No. 14 Kansas on February 28, 2026.

Burries’ play was instrumental in Arizona’s success, helping the Wildcats achieve a program-record 36 wins and reach the Final Four for the first time since 2001. The team was consistently ranked among the top five nationally in KenPom, NET, and the AP Poll throughout the season.

Multiple mock drafts have projected Burries as a lottery selection in the 2026 NBA Draft, which is expected to take place in late June. One projection from USA TODAY’s mock draft had him selected ninth overall by the Milwaukee Bucks.

Analysts have noted his ability to score, defend at a high level, contribute on the boards, and create plays off the dribble, including his proficiency in making three-pointers while in motion.