Two Next Stars projected as top 10 picks

ESPN’s Draft experts Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo have compiled the very first NBA Mock Draft 2026, listing who they envision to be the top 10 players to be drafted in June 2026. 

The NBL Next Stars program sees not one, but two names included in this shortlist: in fact, New Zealand Breakers’ Karim Lopez is projected at #6, while Melbourne United’s Dash Daniels is ranked at #9. 

Karim Lopez, who has been viewed as the best prospect ever out of Mexico, has just concluded his first season with the Breakers, setting records for the youngest player ever to record a double-double in the NBL’s 40-minute era and for highest-scoring games at his age.

“Lopez had an outstanding season with the New Zealand Breakers as part of the NBL Next Star program, filling up the stat sheet while showing significant improvement with his outside shooting” Givony said.

Dash Daniels committed to the Next Stars program in December, signing with Melbourne United. During the NBA All-Star Weekend, he participated in the Basketball Without Borders camp, taking home the Defensive MVP award and securing a spot in the All-Star Five of the camp.

“The 17-year-old brings many of the same strengths and weaknesses as his brother Dyson, but is bigger, stronger and longer at the same age, which certainly won't hurt his NBA projection,” Givony added.

The Next Stars program has seen six players drafted in the first round in the last five NBA drafts, including Alex Sarr being selected as the #2 pick by the Washington Wizards in 2024. 

Read the full story here >> 2026 NBA mock draft top 10: Which player emerges at No. 1?