In this episode of the Locked On NBA Big Board podcast, Rafael Barlowe and grassroots/NBA draft expert Krysten Peek dive into the 2026 NBA Draft class, a group they believe has the potential to surpass even the highly anticipated 2025 class. While the 2025 cycle is still in full swing, the duo takes an exciting look ahead at the future stars that scouts and fans should already have on their radar.

Leading the discussion is BYU commit AJ Dybantsa, widely regarded as the top prospect in the 2026 class. They highlight his advanced scoring ability, physical tools, and poise well beyond his years. Kansas commit Darryn Peterson also earns high praise for his versatile offensive skillset and potential as the No. 1 pick in 2026.

The conversation then shifts to Duke commit Cameron Boozer, whose combination of basketball IQ, skill, and pedigree has him in the conversation as a potential future No. 1 pick. Rounding out the list of names to know, Barlowe and Peek discuss the upside of undecided prospects Nate Ament and Koa Pete. Ament's length and positional versatility have scouts intrigued, while Pete’s athleticism and defensive prowess make him one of the most physically dominant players in the class.

Rafael and Krysten emphasize that while these prospects are still a few years away from hearing their names called on draft night, the 2026 class is already shaping up to be an exciting storyline for NBA fans and front offices alike.

Timestamps:

2025 vs 2026 - 2:16
AJ Dybantsa - 5:28
Darryn Peterson - 7:36
Darryn Peterson - 11:13
Cameron Boozer - 16:27
Cameron Boozer - 22:32
Nate Ament - 25:18
Koa Pete - 30:37