NEW YORK — The first round of the 2026 NBA Draft concluded at Barclays Center in Brooklyn on Wednesday with several highly anticipated selections and a series of trades that reshaped the latter portion of the opening round, according to the NBA and teams involved. The draft featured top prospects entering the league as franchises sought to address roster needs ahead of the 2026-27 season.
The Washington Wizards selected forward AJ Dybantsa with the first overall pick, while the Utah Jazz chose guard Darryn Peterson at No. 2. The Memphis Grizzlies took forward Cameron Boozer third, and the Chicago Bulls selected forward Caleb Wilson fourth, according to official draft results.
The opening portion of the draft proceeded largely as expected, with teams retaining their selections through the first dozen picks. Trades became more frequent later in the round, however, as front offices maneuvered for position or acquired additional assets. The Associated Press reported that multiple deals involving players and draft selections were completed over the final portion of the first round, continuing a trend of increased draft-night activity across the league.
Among the notable selections, the Brooklyn Nets drafted guard Mikel Brown Jr. at No. 6, the Sacramento Kings selected guard Darius Acuff Jr. at No. 7, and the Atlanta Hawks chose guard Kingston Flemings at No. 8. The Dallas Mavericks used the ninth pick on Morez Johnson Jr., while the Golden State Warriors selected Yaxel Lendeborg at No. 11 and the Oklahoma City Thunder drafted center Aday Mara at No. 12.
Several organizations also altered their draft positions through trades. The New York Knicks, coming off their championship season, traded out of the first round through a series of transactions that ultimately yielded additional future assets, according to team reports and media accounts. Other deals involved the movement of first-round selections and future draft considerations as teams sought roster flexibility.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver opened the event at Barclays Center and welcomed the incoming class of players. During the broadcast, Silver told prospects, “Welcome to the NBA,” as selections were announced throughout the evening.
The draft continued into the second round on Wednesday night. League records show that numerous additional trades were completed as teams finalized selections and player rights. The NBA said the draft process remains ongoing as clubs prepare for summer league competition and the start of free agency.
