Category: NBA

The NCAA men's basketball championship game between the Michigan Wolverines and UConn Huskies will feature several players projected as first-round picks in the 2026 NBA Draft.

While top picks including AJ Dybantsa as well as Cameron Boozer and Darryn Peterson were eliminated earlier during March Madness, the Final Four saw several star-studded prospects participate. Arizona freshmen Brayden Burries and Koa Peat as well as Illinois freshman Keaton Wagler were one win short of an appearance in the title game, but several other future NBA players will play for a chance to cut down the nets.

In addition for a chance at a championship trophy, the title game between Michigan and UConn is also a wonderful opportunity to put on one more show in front of scouts during the Big Dance.

Note: Some highly-ranked players not included here who could potentially return to college include Tounde Yessoufou (Baylor), Alijah Arenas (USC), Meleek Thomas (Arkansas), Ebuka Okorie (Stanford) and Flory Bidunga (Kansas). But if these players decide to declare and stay in the draft, they could potentially warrant first-round consideration as well.

Our draft order is based on ESPN’s projected records and factors in trades, including swaps and protections.

1. Washington Wizards: AJ Dybantsa

• TEAM: BYU
• POSITION: Wing
• BORN: Massachusetts
• HEIGHT: 6-9
• DRAFT AGE: 19

The Wizards have the second-worst offense in the NBA and could instantly inject life into their offense by selecting AJ Dybantsa, the NCAA scoring champion and Julius Erving Award winner. He emphasized that point during his one game for BYU in March Madness, putting up 35 points and 10 rebounds. The Big 12 Rookie of the Year led the nation in unassisted points scored (680) by a wide margin this season, per CBB Analytics. The emerging star also had 40 points against Kansas State in the Big 12 Tournament on March 10 and averaged 28.8 points per game over his final 17 appearances. 

2. Indiana Pacers: Cameron Boozer 

• TEAM: Duke
• POSITION: Forward
• BORN: Florida
• HEIGHT: 6-9
• DRAFT AGE: 18

Duke freshman Cameron Boozer was dominant during his first NCAA season, earning national collegiate player of the year. According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, rival teams believe Boozer would be the "preferred selection" for the Pacers because of his "potential fit" alongside Pascal Siakam and Ivica Zubac. The ACC Player of the Year isn’t a human highlight reel, but he offers consistency and a diverse, impactful skill set. More importantly, he can bring a culture of winning after multiple championships in high school and an elite Duke team that made it to the Sweet 16 before a heartbreaking last-second loss.

3. Brooklyn Nets: Darryn Peterson

• TEAM: Kansas
• POSITION: Guard
• BORN: Ohio
• HEIGHT: 6-5
• DRAFT AGE: 19

While he is no longer perceived as the near-certain No. 1 overall pick that he once was due to relative inconsistency and injury issues, many scouts and evaluators feel that Darryn Peterson is the most talented player in this class. The Nets have the worst offense in the NBA and could change the course of the franchise by selecting Peterson. It is incredibly rare to find a prospect who is able to score as efficiently as Peterson did while holding a usage rate as high as his was this season. 

4. Utah Jazz: Kingston Flemings 

• TEAM: Houston
• POSITION: Guard
• BORN: Texas
• HEIGHT: 6-4
• DRAFT AGE: 19

While most project North Carolina freshman Caleb Wilson at No. 4 overall, he may not fit in Utah’s crowded frontcourt. Meanwhile, the Jazz currently have the worst defensive rating in the Western Conference and could potentially improve that by selecting Houston freshman Kingston Flemings. The All-Big 12 guard has several games when he has recorded at least three steals, notching eight against Arizona State earlier this season. He scored 42 points against No. 11 Texas Tech on Jan. 24. He helped lead Houston to the Sweet 16, and with highs as high as his were this season, it will not take long for him to hear his name called on draft night.   

5. Sacramento Kings: Caleb Wilson

• TEAM: North Carolina
• POSITION: Big
• BORN: Georgia
• HEIGHT: 6-10
• DRAFT AGE: 19

The Kings need the best player available, and that is North Carolina freshman Caleb Wilson, who unfortunately missed the NCAA Tournament with a broken thumb. Wilson, who also suffered a hand fracture earlier in the season, did more than enough to earn this placement, though. According to Bart Torvik, before the injury the All-ACC big man led the nation with 67 dunks recorded. He was also the only player under 20 years old to reach thresholds of 2.5 percent for both block and steal percentage while also notching a defensive rebound percentage above 20.0 percent.

6. Atlanta Hawks (via Pelicans): Darius Acuff Jr. 

• TEAM: Arkansas
• POSITION: Guard
• BORN: Michigan
• HEIGHT: 6-3
• DRAFT AGE: 19

The Hawks could use a guard like Arkansas freshman Darius Acuff Jr. after trading away Trae Young, using a first-round pick they received from the Pelicans. En route to the Sweet 16, the SEC Player of the Year proved he is one of the most enticing offensive prospects in recent memory. Acuff Jr. led the nation for points created (1,394) either by himself or through an assist, per CBB Analytics. He led freshmen for field goals made in transition (72) and field goals made from both the left and right side of the court. He was among the freshmen leaders in alley-oop assists (17) as well. He has significant defensive deficiencies but playing alongside Dyson Daniels would help cover that problem. 

7. Dallas Mavericks: Keaton Wagler 

• TEAM: Illinois
• POSITION: Wing
• BORN: Kansas
• HEIGHT: 6-6
• DRAFT AGE: 19

The Mavericks have the worst offensive rating in the Western Conference and could benefit from a player like Illinois standout Keaton Wagler. The 19-year-old guard played a crucial role to help the Fighting Illini earn a spot in the Final Four, where he recorded 20 points and 8 rebounds against UConn in the national semifinals. The freshman also dropped 25 points in the Elite Eight. He projects as one of the best 3-point shooters in this class, shooting 39.7 percent from beyond the arc as a freshman. while connecting on as many as nine 3-pointers in a game. The Big Ten Rookie of the Year has athletic limitations but is a cerebral basketball player who is also averaging 5.1 rebounds and 4.2 assists per game this season. 

8. Memphis Grizzlies: Yaxel Lendeborg

• TEAM: Michigan
• POSITION: Forward
• BORN: New Jersey
• HEIGHT: 6-9
• DRAFT AGE: 23

The Grizzlies could add to their rebuilding core after trading away Jaren Jackson Jr. by selecting Yaxel Lendeborg, who has shown on his way to the men’s collegiate national championship game that he is perhaps the most NBA-ready player in this draft class. The Big Ten Player of the Year offers a bit of everything on both sides of the ball and has silenced skeptics who were unsure how his game would scale after transferring from mid-major UAB to high-major Michigan. The Grizzlies have drafted players with similar trajectories like Jaylen Wells and Cedric Coward.

9. Chicago Bulls: Brayden Burries 

• TEAM: Arizona
• POSITION: Guard
• BORN: California
• HEIGHT: 6-4
• DRAFT AGE: 20

Arizona freshman Brayden Burries was an exciting prospect to watch during the Big Dance, making it all the way to the Final Four and dropping 23 points against Arkansas. He had two breakout games in January, which helped solidify his draft stock. But the All-Big 12 guard continued to display his tantalizing talent, scoring 31 points with seven rebounds and five steals against Colorado on March 7 and 20 points with 12 rebounds and five assists during a victory against No. 14 Kansas on Feb. 28. He has proven productivity, and he is able to defend, relocate, move the ball and make 3-pointers off the dribble. Burries would make a great pick for whatever new executives take over the front office for the Bulls.

10. Milwaukee Bucks: Mikel Brown Jr. 

• TEAM: Louisville
• POSITION: Guard
• BORN: Florida
• HEIGHT: 6-5
• DRAFT AGE: 20

The Milwaukee Bucks need to simply draft the best player available with whatever pick they have and will likely keep Louisville floor general Mikel Brown Jr. highlighted on their big board. The All-ACC guard has deep shooting range and was among the freshmen leaders in 3-pointers made from beyond 25 feet (27) this year, per CBB Analytics. Brown was averaging 29.2 points per game over his last five appearances, including 45 points against NC State on Feb. 9, while hitting 10 shots from beyond the arc, before an injury on Feb. 28 forced him to miss March Madness.

11. Golden State Warriors: Labaron Philon 

• TEAM: Alabama
• POSITION: Guard
• BORN: Alabama
• HEIGHT: 6-4
• DRAFT AGE: 20

The Warriors could still use more reliable players in the backcourt and could find a fairly compelling player in Alabama sophomore Labaron Philon. Even though the All-SEC guard was not playing at 100 percent during March Madness due to injury issues, he played well in the tournament, recording 35 points during a loss against Michigan. He also notched 29 points in his first game and 12 assists in his second. The guard averaged 22.0 points per game, and he improved his 3-point shooting from 31.5 percent as a freshman to 39.9 percent as a sophomore, while also managing 5.0 assists per game in the process.

12. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Clippers): Hannes Steinbach

• TEAM: Washington
• POSITION: Big
• BORN: Germany
• HEIGHT: 6-11
• DRAFT AGE: 20

After winning the 2025 NBA Finals, the Oklahoma City Thunder are projected to add even more lottery-caliber talent in the 2026 NBA Draft. They could use it to potentially replace Isaiah Hartenstein by drafting a younger German big man: Hannes Steinbach. While his team missed the tournament, the All-Big Ten post is an instinctive rebounder with great hands, including an absurd 24 rebounds against USC on March 4. Additionally, the center is one of the more prolific pick-and-roll finishers in college basketball. He shined during the FIBA U19 World Cup, and scouts love that he is a smart basketball player who can make great reads.

13. Portland Trail Blazers: Nate Ament 

• TEAM: Tennessee
• POSITION: Wing
• BORN: Virginia
• HEIGHT: 6-10
• DRAFT AGE: 19

After a relatively slow and inefficient start to the season, Tennessee freshman Nate Ament started to realize some of his lofty expectations. The freshman averaged 21.6 points per game, while shooting 38.9 percent on 3-pointers, during a 13-game stretch before an injury against Alabama on Feb. 28. The All-SEC forward then had 27 points (4-of-6 on 3-pointers) with eight rebounds, four assists, three blocks and a steal against Auburn on March 12. He was not as efficient during March Madness, but it will only take one team to fall in love with Ament, and that team is almost certainly picking in the lottery.

14. Miami Heat: Koa Peat 

• TEAM: Arizona
• POSITION: Forward
• BORN: Arizona
• HEIGHT: 6-8
• DRAFT AGE: 19

The Miami Heat have drafted several prospects known for their athleticism, which means a player like Arizona forward Koa Peat will probably have some appeal to the organization. Peat is an ideal match for this franchise given his versatility as a playmaking forward. Arizona played at a significantly faster pace (3.9 extra possessions) when Peat was on the floor relative to when he was not, per CBB Analytics, which would fit very well with Miami’s fastest-paced offense in the NBA. The All-Big 12 forward just needs a jumper to carve out regular minutes as a high-impact pro. 

15. Charlotte Hornets: Braylon Mullins 

• TEAM: Connecticut
• POSITION: Wing
• BORN: Indiana
• HEIGHT: 6-6
• DRAFT AGE: 19

Braylon Mullins, a five-star recruit and former McDonald's All-American, was a breakout star in the NCAA men’s basketball tournament after hitting one of the most improbable 3-pointers in March Madness history. Mullins continued to show a winning mentality, helping the Huskies earn a spot in the national championship game. The Big East All-Freshman wing shot 40.7 percent on 3-pointers during his first 18 games in the starting lineup. He is a useful off-ball threat, which gives him an immediately practical role at the next level. 

16. Memphis Grizzlies (via Magic): Joshua Jefferson 

• TEAM: Iowa State
• POSITION: Forward
• BORN: Nevada
• HEIGHT: 6-9
• DRAFT AGE: 22

A few years ago, research indicated that the Grizzlies tend to value a few statistical similarities in their draftees: Efficient shot selection, added value beyond scoring and defensive playmaking. For the second year in a row, the Iowa State forward was an impactful dribble-pass-shoot forward who met many of the qualifications that led Memphis to find players who spent many years on their roster. The All-Big 12 forward got injured during the first round of the tournament, but Iowa State still earned a spot in the Sweet 16.

17. Toronto Raptors: Bennett Stirtz 

• TEAM: Iowa
• POSITION: Guard
• BORN: Missouri
• HEIGHT: 6-4
• DRAFT AGE: 22

The Raptors could use another guard and should have Bennett Stirtz on their priority list. After transferring from Division II to a mid-major and then to a high-major program, he is at the top of the class in creating his own shot off the dribble in isolation or the pick-and-roll. The All-Big Ten guard can also finish plays from dribble handoffs. His play during March Madness, which included 24 points against Illinois and 20 points against Nebraska, earned a spot in the Elite Eight. The Raptors play at a slow pace, which would translate well for Stirtz, who did the same at Iowa. 

18. Charlotte Hornets (via Suns): Jayden Quaintance

• TEAM: Kentucky
• POSITION: Big
• BORN: Ohio
• HEIGHT: 6-9
• DRAFT AGE: 18

Jayden Quaintance recorded just one start during his sophomore campaign as he recovered from a torn ACL, meniscus and fractured knee. The big man is still one of the youngest players in this class, but he has shown flashes during his time at Arizona State and Kentucky. When healthy, he is arguably the most talented defender in this draft class and could help a team that desperately needs frontcourt help, like the Hornets. But health may cause some concern for evaluators.

19. Oklahoma City Thunder (via 76ers): Karim López

• TEAM: International (Australia)
• POSITION: Forward
• BORN: Mexico
• HEIGHT: 6-8
• DRAFT AGE: 19

The Thunder have drafted multiple players from Australia’s NBL, including Josh Giddey. They could dip into this well again by selecting Karim López with their pick from the Philadelphia 76ers. While the Mexican-born forward still needs some development, he is physically gifted and widely seen as the top prospect from this class currently playing overseas. He exploded for 32 points (11-of-13 FG) with eight rebounds, two blocks and one steal against Melbourne on Jan. 30. Even if he is a draft-and-stash player, that is ideal for a team with a rotation as crowded as the Thunder.

20. San Antonio Spurs (via Hawks): Aday Mara 

• TEAM: Michigan
• POSITION: Big
• BORN: Spain
• HEIGHT: 7-3
• DRAFT AGE: 21

After leading his team to the NCAA championship game, Michigan center Aday Mara became one of the prospects who helped himself the most during March Madness. The 7-foot-3 big man, who transferred from UCLA, is a fantastic rim protector. Opponents only attempted 20.9 percent of their field goals at the rim when the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year was on the court, per CBB Analytics, which ranks near lowest among all NCAA players. He can also pass well, finding some awesome outlet looks in transition and at the rim. Especially in short spurts, Mara would make an excellent backup to Victor Wembanyama. 

21. Detroit Pistons (via Timberwolves): Christian Anderson 

• TEAM: Texas Tech
• POSITION: Guard
• BORN: Georgia
• HEIGHT: 6-3
• DRAFT AGE: 20

While they are one of the best teams in the league this season, the Pistons are still struggling from the perimeter and could use more talented 3-point shooters on their roster. A simple fix would be drafting Texas Tech sophomore Christian Anderson, who had the most unassisted 3-pointers (61) among high-major players, per CBB Analytics. After moving from the two-guard to point guard, the All-Big 12 Most Improved Player recorded more than twice as many assists per 100 possessions as a sophomore compared to when he was a freshman. 

22. New York Knicks: Chris Cenac Jr. 

• TEAM: Houston
• POSITION: Big
• BORN: Louisiana
• HEIGHT: 6-11
• DRAFT AGE: 19

It was an up-and-down season for former five-star recruit and McDonald's All-American Chris Cenac Jr. at Houston. While he still remains a candidate to return to college and improve his draft stock for the 2027 NBA Draft, Cenac Jr. got hot at the perfect time. During his first game in the Big Dance, the big man recorded a season-high 18 rebounds, while also knocking down a 3-pointer and grabbing a steal. Then in the Round of 32, he showed off more scoring with some impressive cuts to the basket, dropping 17 points against Texas A&M. He was quieter in the Sweet 16 but still managed 10 rebounds. 

23. Denver Nuggets: Thomas Haugh 

• TEAM: Florida
• POSITION: Wing
• BORN: Pennsylvania
• HEIGHT: 6-9
• DRAFT AGE: 22

After winning a national championship with Florida last season, Thomas Haugh was instantly regarded as one of the most interesting players who elected to return to college. The All-SEC forward had one of the top motors in the NCAA this season before an early elimination from March Madness. While he did not score efficiently in a set offense this year, he does not need the ball in his hands very often to make a difference on the floor for his team. He can serve as a glue guy for a contending team looking to win an NBA title like the Nuggets. 

24. Atlanta Hawks (via Cavaliers): Patrick Ngongba II

• TEAM: Duke
• POSITION: Big
• BORN: Virginia
• HEIGHT: 6-11
• DRAFT AGE: 20

Many teams could use a big man like Patrick Ngongba II, who is an above-average passer for his position. His assist rate is the highest among underclassmen listed at 6-foot-11 or taller, per Bart Torvik, and he is at the top of his game when passing to a driving perimeter player. The big man, who helped Duke earn a spot in the Elite Eight, is a big-bodied prospect who can carve out space as one of the more prolific cutters in college basketball. He is on an encouraging development track, displaying legitimate year-over-year improvement from his freshman to sophomore campaign.

25. Philadelphia 76ers (via Rockets): Allen Graves 

• TEAM: Santa Clara
• POSITION: Forward
• BORN: Louisiana
• HEIGHT: 6-9
• DRAFT AGE: 20

One of the most under-the-radar prospects in all of college basketball this season was Santa Clara freshman Allen Graves, who was nearly a March Madness hero. It was hard not to notice the WCC Rookie of the Year and Sixth Man of the Year after he scored 30 points with 13 rebounds, four assists and two steals Feb. 7 against Washington State. The only players under 21 years old who currently held a higher box plus-minus, via Bart Torvik, were Cameron Boozer and Caleb Wilson.

26. Los Angeles Lakers: Morez Johnson Jr.

• TEAM: Michigan
• POSITION: Big
• BORN: Illinois
• HEIGHT: 6-9
• DRAFT AGE: 20

Morez Johnson Jr. is one of the best two-way players in the NCAA. He is a crucial part of the Michigan identity this season, leading his team to an appearance in the NCAA championship game, and has thrived since transferring to the Wolverines from Illinois. Johnson's shooting form at the free throw line looks good, and he scores well near the rim, especially when cutting to the basket. The former FIBA U-19 Team USA standout and All-Big Ten big man is a trustworthy defensive playmaker, too, and should find minutes at the next level.

27. Boston Celtics: Cameron Carr 

• TEAM: Baylor
• POSITION: Wing
• BORN: Minnesota
• HEIGHT: 6-5
• DRAFT AGE: 21

One of the players who improved his draft stock the most this season was Baylor junior Cameron Carr. The All-Big 12 wing brings athleticism and shooting and, per Bart Torvik, he was the only player to make at least 40 field goals that were dunks and more than 60 field goals that were 3-pointers this season. Baylor outscored opponents by an additional 28.5 points per 100 possessions when he was on the floor relative to when he was not, via CBB Analytics, which ranked as the fourth-most of any high-major player in the NCAA. 

28. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Pistons): Tyler Tanner 

• TEAM: Vanderbilt
• POSITION: Guard
• BORN: Tennessee
• HEIGHT: 6-0
• DRAFT AGE: 20

It is unusual to find a 6-foot sophomore projected in the first round of a mock draft, but if there were ever a player who has earned that kind of praise should he decide to turn pro after this season, it's Tyler Tanner. Despite his size, the All-SEC guard found meaningful ways to contribute on both sides of the floor. He can score efficiently, dunk, block shots, steal the ball, and he is more than serviceable as a floor general capable of earning rotation minutes for a team like the Timberwolves. Tanner could also return to school but should earn serious first-round buzz if he turns pro.  

29. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Spurs): Dailyn Swain  

• TEAM: Texas
• POSITION: Wing
• BORN: Ohio
• HEIGHT: 6-8
• DRAFT AGE: 21

After transferring from Xavier to Texas during the offseason and then leading his team to the Sweet 16, Dailyn Swain became one of the more intriguing breakout players in college basketball. The All-SEC forward is versatile and contributed a little bit of everything for the Longhorns on both sides of the ball, scoring well both in the paint and on fastbreaks. Another element that is notably compelling is that Swain is efficient one-on-one in isolation against his defenders. 

30. Dallas Mavericks (via Thunder): Amari Allen 

• TEAM: Alabama
• POSITION: Wing
• BORN: Wisconsin
• HEIGHT: 6-7
• DRAFT AGE: 20

Alabama's Amari Allen is a 6-foot-7 freshman who averaged 12.9 points, 6.9 rebounds and 2.9 assists with 1.7 "stocks" (combined steals and blocks), while shooting 39.5 percent on 3-pointers on 4.8 shots per game for the Crimson Tide during SEC conference play. The SEC All-Freshman wing is a good connective piece who plays hard, cares about winning and knows how to make the right play. Despite a weak showing against Michigan in the Sweet 16, he is still someone who could earn fringe first-round consideration. 

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY Sports: 2026 NBA mock draft: First round picks before NCAA championship game

There was always going to be something jarring about whoever North Carolina was going to hire as its next men’s basketball coach.

After firing Hubert Davis following a first-round NCAA tournament flameout last month, it was widely expected that for the first time in 74 years, the tradition-rich, arguably insular Tar Heels were going to get a replacement with no previous experience at the school as a student, player or assistant coach.

Still, even with that assumption, the end of their search for Davis’ successor managed to raise more than a few eyebrows.

REQUIRED READING: Mike Krzyzewski says North Carolina's Michael Malone will have 'learning curve'

A storyline that loomed over the college basketball world for the past two weeks reached its conclusion on April 6, with North Carolina hiring longtime NBA coach Michael Malone to take over arguably the most prestigious and coveted job in the sport.

The move didn’t exactly come out of nowhere. Malone’s daughter, Bridget, is a sophomore on the Tar Heels’ volleyball team and, because of that, Malone has spent his share of time around Chapel Hill, all of which linked him to the job from virtually the moment it came open.

There’s plenty of reasons to like the decision, too. He led the Denver Nuggets to the NBA playoffs six times over his 10-year tenure, highlighted by a championship in 2023. He oversaw Nikola Jokic’s development into a three-time NBA MVP. He was widely regarded as a sharp tactical mind who knew how to coach defense and push the right buttons at the right time.

The Cleveland Cavaliers will look to pick up their second win in as many nights as they take on the Memphis Grizzlies on the tail end of a back-to-back.

Like Sunday evening, the Cavs are resting several players with the playoffs fast approaching and their position mostly locked up. The Cavaliers are coming into this game needing to win just one of their four remaining games to secure home court in the first round of the playoffs. As such, they will be without the services of Donovan Mitchell (ankle), James Harden (personal), Max Strus (foot), and Thomas Bryant (calf), who all played in Sunday’s victory over the Indiana Pacers. Jarrett Allen, Evan Mobley, and Sam Merrill are all returning to the lineup.

As was the case on Sunday, the Cavs’ opponent isn’t exactly doing all they can to win. They have 10 players that are already ruled out for the game with two more listed as doubtful.

Support us and Let ‘Em Know with Homage!

Anything bought from the links helps support Fear the Sword. You can also shop all of Homage’s Cavs gear HERE. The link to the 2016 championship shirt HERE.

Who: Cleveland Cavaliers (49-29) at Memphis Grizzlies (25-53)

Where: FedExForum – Memphis, TN

When: Mon. April 6 at 8 PM

TV: FanDuel Sports Network Ohio, FanDuel Sports App, NBA League Pass

Point spread: Cavs -13.5

Cavs injury report: Donovan Mitchell – OUT (ankle), James Harden – OUT (personal), Dean Wade – OUT (ankle), Jaylon Tyson – OUT (toe), Max Strus – OUT (foot), Thomas Bryant – OUT (calf)

Grizzlies injury report: Santi Aldama – OUT (knee), Kentavious Caldwell-Pope – OUT (finger), Brandon Clarke – OUT (calf), Zach Edey – OUT (ankle), Taj Gibson – DOUBTFUL (foot), Taylor Hendricks – DOUBTFUL (thumb), Ty Jerome – OUT (ankle), Jahmai Mashack – OUT (concussion), Ja Morant – OUT (elbow), Scotty Pippen, Jr. – OUT (toe), Javon Small – OUT (thigh), Jaylen Wells – OUT (toe)

Cavs expectedstarting lineup: Dennis Schroder, Sam Merrill, Keon Ellis, Evan Mobley, Jarrett Allen

Grizzlies expected starting lineup: Toby Okani, Walter Clayton Jr., Olivier-Maxence Prosper, Rayan Rupert, Taylor Hendricks

Previous matchup: The Cavs defeated the Grizzlies 108-100 in November

Here’s a look at both teams’ impact stats via Cleaning the Glass.

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Our NBA player prop projections are set for tonight’s Eastern Conference clash between the New York Knicks and Atlanta Hawks, with the model pinpointing several standout opportunities.

By analyzing the data and comparing it to current market lines, we’ve uncovered the bets with the highest value.

These Knicks vs. Hawks predictions aren’t guesswork — they’re driven by the numbers.

For those building their cards, here are the model’s top NBA picks for Monday, April 6.

Knicks vs Hawks computer picks for April 6

Knicks	Hawks
Brunson u25.5 points -115	Johnson o21.5 points -115
Towns o11.5 rebounds -135	McCollum o2.5 3-pointers +102
Hart u4.5 assists -112	Okongwu o7.5 rebounds +102

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Knicks computer picks

Jalen Brunson Under 25.5 points (-115)

Projection: 25.0 points

Jalen Brunson going Under 25.5 points in four of his last 10 games isn’t just random variance, it lines up with how the New York Knicks have been operating lately.

New York’s slower tempo has naturally limited overall possessions, which cuts into Brunson’s scoring volume. Fewer trips up the floor mean fewer shot attempts, and that’s critical for a player who often needs high usage to clear a number in the mid-20s.

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Karl-Anthony Towns Over 11.5 rebounds (-135)

Projection: 12.3 rebounds

The Knicks rank second in the league with 13.5 offensive rebounds per game over their last 10 outings, and Karl-Anthony Towns is well-positioned to build on that dominance after clearing the 11.5-rebound line in five of his last 10 games.

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Josh Hart Under 4.5 assists (-112)

Projection: 4.2 assists

Josh Hart going Under 4.5 assists in seven of his last 10 games reflects a clear shift in role within the Knicks offense. With primary creation duties centered around Jalen Brunson, Hart has been used more as a connector and secondary option rather than a true facilitator.

Atlanta’s defensive structure tends to allow ball-dominant guards to create while staying home on shooters, which further reduces Hart’s chances of racking up easy assists. Add it all up, and the Under remains a strong angle at this number.

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Hawks computer picks

Jalen Johnson Over 21.5 points (-115)

Projection: 22.1 points

When it comes to scoring, the Atlanta Hawks have been unstoppable at home, averaging 124.5 points per game — the second-highest mark in the NBA over their last 10 contests.

Jalen Johnson has played a key role in that offensive surge, hitting the Over on 21.5 points in five of his last 10 games.

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CJ McCollum Over 2.5 3-pointers (+102)

Projection: 2.7 3-pointers

The Hawks have been deadly from beyond the arc, connecting on 37% of their 3-pointers, good for sixth in the NBA this season.

The matchup against the Knicks is even more favorable, as opposing starting small forwards have hit an impressive 48% from deep on the road against New York, the highest rate in the league this year.

CJ McCollum has hit this Over in four of his last seven overall.

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Onyeka Okongwu Over 7.5 rebounds (+102)

Projection: 7.6 rebounds

Onyeka Okongwu has hit the Over on 7.5 rebounds in four of his last 10 games, and the matchup against the Knicks sets him up well to do it again tonight.

Defensively, Okongwu’s timing and positioning allow him to grab contested boards even against athletic frontcourt players, and with the Knicks’ focus often drawn to Atlanta’s perimeter scorers, he can capitalize on second-chance opportunities.

All signs point to Okongwu continuing his strong rebounding output and clearing the 7.5-rebound line once again.

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How to watch Knicks vs Hawks tonight

Location	State Farm Arena, Atlanta, GA
Date	Monday, April 6, 2026
Tip-off	7:00 p.m. ET
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The Lakers got a double dose of bad news over the weekend as both Luka Dončić (hamstring) and Austin Reaves (oblique) are done for the regular season. Their status for the opening round of the playoff remains murky at best as well, although they’re both aiming to return as evidenced by Luka heading to Europe to attempt to expedite his recovery.

In the meantime, some Lakers fans have already begun to wonder whether reinforcements could be on the way until Dončić and Reaves are back. Chris Paul, Lonzo Ball and Cole Anthony are among the playoff-eligible guards on the free-agent market.

The good news is that if the Lakers want to go that route, money should not be an obstacle. Lakers fans shouldn’t start preordering their CP3 jerseys yet, though.

Who would the Lakers waive?

After signing Kobe Bufkin to a two-year, $3.3 million contract following the trade deadline, the Lakers now have 15 players on standard contracts. That means they’d have to waive someone before they sign anyone else to a standard deal.

The Lakers have a $2.5 million team option on Bufkin in 2026-27, so they could waive him without being left with a dead cap hit next season. He’s played only 97 minutes across 14 games with the Lakers this year, so he doesn’t seem likely to factor into their rotation regardless. (He played only three minutes in their Dončić- and Reaves-less loss to the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday.)

If the Lakers want to keep Bufkin around in hopes of developing their youth pipeline, veteran big man Maxi Kleber would be the other most logical cut candidate. He’s on an $11 million expiring contract and is set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason.

A back injury sidelined Kleber for all but four games in March, although he’s already played in both of the Lakers’ games in April to date. Still, he’s averaging a career-low 2.1 points and 1.9 rebounds in 10.7 minutes per game, so the Lakers wouldn’t exactly feel his loss from an on-court perspective. His biggest value to the team might be as a locker room leader, particularly given his relationship with Dončić dating back to their time in Dallas.

Beyond those two, the Lakers don’t have any obvious cut candidates. Jaxson Hayes is also set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer, but he’s been the Lakers’ primary backup center behind Deandre Ayton all year. Only $1.25 million of Bronny James’ $2.3 million salary for 2026-27 is guaranteed, although cutting a franchise icon’s son right before the start of the playoffs probably wouldn’t engender much goodwill with him.

Why money isn’t an issue for the Lakers

After signing Bufkin, the Lakers are roughly $630,000 below their first-apron hard cap. That’s well below the full-season price tag of $2.3 million for a veteran-minimum contract.

Luckily, minimum deals begin to prorate downward by roughly $13,000 per day once the regular season begins. Since there’s less than a week left in the season, they’re basically a rounding error at this point of the year. Even if the Lakers signed someone Monday, it would cost them less than $100,000 for this season.

The Lakers technically have enough space under the first apron to sign multiple players to rest-of-season contracts. Again, the issue there is deciding which players to waive to create those roster spots.

If the Lakers do pursue outside help, they can only sign players who were free agents as of March 1. Anyone who got waived after that date — like Cam Thomas with the Bucks — cannot join another team’s playoff roster this season. So, no, the Lakers have no reason to beg the Washington Wizards to waive D’Angelo Russell this week.

In all likelihood, the Lakers will stand pat with their roster as is and pray that Europe has discovered the cure for hamstring strains. (Surely it’s just eating more protein… right?) But if they do want reinforcements until Dončić and/or Reaves return, they have the spending power to sign a free agent, as long as they’re willing to part ways with someone currently under contract.

Unless otherwise noted, all stats via NBA.com, PBPStats, Cleaning the Glass or Basketball Reference. All salary information via Spotrac and salary-cap information via RealGM.

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On Sunday, April 5, it was reported that Luka Doncic was heading to Europe to seek specialized treatment for his grade 2 left hamstring strain in an effort to expedite his return. Now, more details have come to light regarding what that treatment actually looks like.

ESPN's Shams Charania gave the latest update on the status of the injured Los Angeles Lakers star with a bit of new information. In a segment on NBA Today, Charania reported that Doncic is currently in Spain to receive "an injection procedure" in his hamstring area to "promote healing" and streamline his recovery process.

"We know a grade 2 hamstring typically falls between 4-6 weeks," Charania said on-air. "He's doing everything he can to see if he can push that timeline up just a little bit. ... That's what he's doing. He's in Spain."

Details on Lakers injured stars Luka Doncic treatment in Spain and Austin Reaves timeline for NBA Today: pic.twitter.com/q0aG2WQrf0

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 6, 2026

Charania added that there's still a lot of unknowns, such as how the treatment itself actually works, the effectiveness of it, and how much it can possibly speed things up.

Doncic strained his hamstring in the fourth quarter of Thursday's blowout loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder and has been ruled out for the remainder of the regular season and his status for the playoffs is currently uncertain, but a first-round appearance would be surprising given what we know about the usual timeline for grade 2 hamstring strains.

What is a Grade 2 hamstring strain?

A Grade 2 hamstring strain is a “moderate injury that is typically a partial tear in the muscle; patients are likely to limp when walking and will have occasional twinges of pain during activity,” according to Mercy Health.

The injury could take close to a month to heal, but “returning to sports before the injury is fully healed can cause more severe injuries.”

Austin Reaves injury update

Doncic wasn't the only Lakers guard that Charania gave an update on. Austin Reaves -- who has also been ruled out for the final five games of the season with a Grade 2 left oblique muscle injury -- is rehabbing in LA and is still expected to miss 4-6 weeks, which would sideline him for most of if not all of the first round.

"The goal is for both of these players to be back," Charania said.

With the Lakers down two of their best players and possible first-round matchups against the Denver Nuggets, Houston Rockets or Minnesota Timberwolves (or possibly the Phoenix Suns if the Lakers can lock up the No. 3 seed), they might need a vintage LeBron James run just to make it out to the second round.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Lakers Luka Doncic injury update: What we know on special treatment

The NBA's tanking issue has largely overshadowed the stretch run of the 2025-26 season and the race for seeding ahead of the postseason to this point. But the final week of the schedule has set the stage for some needed drama, with games every day that loom large as teams jockey for playoff position and try to avoid the play-in tournament.

Though the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs have locked up the top two spots in the Western Conference, and the Detroit Pistons and Boston Celtics are comfortably positioned atop the Eastern Conference, there's plenty at stake for the rest of the postseason bracket and several key injuries that could impact the next few days and the start of the 2026 NBA playoffs.

Here's a breakdown at some key storylines as the NBA begins the final week of the 2025-26 regular season:

NBA POWER RANKINGS: Where do Lakers go with Luka Dončić injury?

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Celtics dominate fourth quarter to secure season sweep of Raptors

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‘I’ll do whatever it takes’: 1-on-1 with Celtics owner Bill Chisholm on spending, roster changes, and a new arena

Nikola Vucevic returned for the Celtics, but is there enough time to figure out how he fits?

Celtics test out some different looks in possible playoff preview rout of the Raptors

Celtics Green Comments from the Other Side – Raptors 4/5/26

CelticsBlog10 Takeaways from Celtics late victory over scrappy Raptors

Joe Mazzulla confident Celtics will unleash the ‘best version’ of Nikola Vučević

Raptors vs. Celtics player grades: Jays dominate again in Vucevic’s return vs. Raptors

Celtics beat Raptors 115-101 in potential first-round preview

CLNS MediaNikola Vucevic Struggles in Return from Finger Surgery

How Should Celtics Handle Nikola Vucevic After Return? | Still Poddable

Neemias Queta is Elite in Celtics win over Raptors | You Got Boston w/ Noa Dalzell

Should Luka Garza or Nikola Vucevic Get More Minutes For Celtics?

Celtics .comBrown Backs Queta’s Case for Most Improved Player

Keys to the Game: Celtics 115, Raptors 101

NBC Sports BostonFour reasons why Neemias Queta is the NBA’s Most Improved Player

Celtics-Raptors recap: The Jays, Queta stay hot in C’s win at TD Garden

NESN Cleveland Radio Hosts Blast Cavs As ‘Scared’ Of Celtics Before Playoffs

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New Celtics trade addition reveals unique challenge after return in Bucks win

Jaylen Brown believes Celtics center should win notable NBA award

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4 takeaways as Celtics beat Raptors, key big man returns to court

Celtics Wire Evan Turner thinks Jayson Tatum return to Celtics is exceptional

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Darko Rajakovic, Ja’Kobe Walter on what went wrong for Raps in Celtics loss

Celtics snap into form late to beat Raptors at home (PHOTOS)

Celtics roll Raptors 115-101 in potential playoff preview

The AthleticNBA Power Rankings: Nuggets are contenders, and were our first-week predictions correct?

From seeding to tanking, everything at stake in the NBA season’s final week

If NBA playoffs started today: Projecting 8 first-round matchups in season’s final week

Nikola Vučević back to building chemistry with Celtics after return

Jaylen Brown sees ‘night and day’ difference in Neemias Queta’s growth

Boston Sports JournalSimone: Neemias Queta is more important to the Celtics than most people realize

BSJ Game Report: Celtics 115, Raptors 101 – A solid close leads big-time win

Hardwood HoudiniClear hierarchy developing among Celtics’ potential first-round playoff opponents

Celtics possibly undergoing rotation change that’s something to watch for playoffs

The Warriors have now become the new 76ers to the Celtics

Celtics look smarter by the day as Jayson Tatum reminds everyone who he is

Neemias Queta is going to get snubbed in award season and no one’s talking about it

Joe Mazzulla risking head-scratching move that could become a costly mistake

Healthy Nikola Vucevic will be difference maker in potential NBA Finals matchup

Coaches and former teammate highlight Vucevic’s impact on and off the court

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Nikola Vučević’s Time to Build Chemistry is Limited, But Celtics Confident In Finding It

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Celtics Get Notable Nikola Vucevic Update After Raptors Win

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NBA/YouTube RAPTORS at CELTICS | FULL GAME HIGHLIGHTS | April 5, 2026

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North Carolina has plucked both its football and men's basketball coaches from the professional ranks in the last two years, hiring New England Patriots legend Bill Belichick prior to the 2025 season and former Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone on Monday, April 6, sources confirmed to USA TODAY Sports.

Former Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski, one of the sport's legendary coaches who has been a part of numerous rivalry games against in-state enemy North Carolina, said it hasn't done the Tar Heels any good yet, though.

"Well, they had an NFL champion hired as the coach and Duke beat North Carolina in football this year," he said on ESPN's "Pat McAfee Show" shortly after the Malone news dropped. "That doesn't mean Coach Belichick isn't a great coach, but there is time for adjustment."

REQUIRED READING: Michael Malone hired as UNC basketball coach; former NBA champion replaces Hubert Davis

Malone, whose daughter plays volleyball at North Carolina, was fired by the Denver Nuggets prior to the playoffs in 2025, although he won the NBA Finals with the organization in 2023. He has 510 career NBA wins in stints with the Nuggets and Sacramento Kings, and coached 3-time MVP Nikola Jokic with Denver.

While Krzyzewski said Malone is a great coach, he said there's a learning curve when moving from NBA to college, but also noted North Carolina could be shifting its philosophy to more of a professional model with coaching hires.

"It takes longer, if you ever get adjusted from the pros to college," he said. "(Malone) is a terrific coach and a terrific guy. There's a learning curve. ... Whatever the reasoning is, maybe they're changing. (North Carolina) now have two pro coaches coaching in college.

"The infrastructure their athletic department (has), is it now going to become more of a pro organization? Which. I think if that's true, everybody should be doing that. And the fact that he knows how to do that, and so does Coach Belichick, maybe that's a sign that they're moving in that direction."

"They had an NFL champion hired as the coach and Duke beat Carolina in football this year." 🤣

Coach K reacted to @PeteThamel's report of UNC hiring Mike Malone on the @PatMcAfeeShow 🏀 pic.twitter.com/P5irdauRE3

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) April 6, 2026

Malone has his work cut out for him, as North Carolina basketball has struggled in recent years to live up to its standard as one of the best programs in college basketball. The Tar Heels haven't won a first-round NCAA Tournament game since 2023-24.

The former Nuggets coach hasn't been in college sports since 2001, when he was an assistant at Manhattan. He'll look to revive the Duke-North Carolina against coach Jon Scheyer, Krzyzewski's former assistant and player.

And maybe Malone will even earn some brownie points with UNC fans if he claps back at Krzyzewski if North Carolina beats Duke in football this year.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Mike Krzyzewski says UNC's Michael Malone will have 'learning curve'

Jaylen Brown has been named Eastern Conference Player of the Week for the third time this season after leading the Celtics to a 3-1 week. The Celtics tallied wins over the Miami Heat, Milwaukee Bucks, and Toronto Raptors, while averaging 31 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game.

The Celtics’ only loss came in Atlanta, when Brown posted 29 points, 10 rebounds, and 9 assists, but shot just 9-29 from the field and turned the ball over 6 times.

In the Western Conference, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was named Player of the Week after leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 3-0 week, and averaging 31.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game.

The award is Brown’s 7th career selection, and third selection this season. Last week, Jayson Tatum was named Player of the Year after averaging 25.7 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game en route to a 3-0 week for the Celtics.

Brown’s best game came on Wednesday, when he exploded for 43 points on 17-29 shooting alongside 7 assists in a blowout win over the Miami Heat.

The Player of the Week award is the latest in a season of accolades for Jaylen Brown. He earned his first-ever Player of the Month selection for games played in January and was named an All-Star starter for the first time.

The Celtics are 53-25 on the season, owners of the East’s second-best record. Brown has been the team’s leading scorer, averaging 28.7 points per game. He’s also tallying 7 rebounds, 5.2 assists, and 1 steal.

Brown and the Celtics will be back in action on Tuesday night against the Hornets.

It looks as though the North Carolina Tar Heels have found their next head coach, and it’s a surprising name in former Denver Nuggets coach Mike Malone.

According to ESPN college basketball reporter Pete Thamel, North Carolina is set to hire Malone, who won an NBA Championship with Denver in 2023 before being fired two seasons later.

This, despite strong interest in former Florida Gators head coach Billy Donovan, who is now leading the Chicago Bulls. Donovan was tabbed as the favorite for the UNC opening almost immediately once Hubert Davis was let go. One oddsmaker even had Donovan at -250 to get the job early Monday morning.

And according to Jeff Goodman, there’s a very real chance Donovan would have taken the job if offered.

But just like Mitch Barnhart and Kentucky two years ago, it appears North Carolina wasn’t willing to wait just one more week to potentially hire the two-time NCAA champion.

It’s the final week of the NBA regular season, meaning it’s crunch time for teams battling for playoff positioning. And there are big battles across both conferences, with just a handful of games left before the postseason begins with the NBA Play-In Tournament on April 14.

Only one thing is certain at this point: the Detroit Pistons have locked up the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference. But there are a few games on the Monday, April 6 slate that could play a key role in determining who lands where on the playoff bracket.

The night begins with a crucial matchup in Atlanta, pitting the New York Knicks, the current No. 3 seed in the East, against the red-hot Hawks, who currently hold the No. 5 seed. One hour later, the San Antonio Spurs, who still have a chance to catch the Oklahoma City Thunder for the top seed in the West, host the Philadelphia 76ers, who are trying to hang on to the sixth seed in the East. The night concludes with a Northest division matchup between the Denver Nuggets, the current No. 4 seed, and the Portland Trail Blazers, who sit in the No. 9 seed.

Here are the current brackets for the playoffs and the Play-In Tournament, the NBA standings and the schedule for Monday, April 6:

In today’s Dub Hub:

• Steve Kerr says the Warriors are “back in the fight” after Steph Curry’s return gives the team new hope.
• Rockets’ Kevin Durant gives Steph Curry his flowers after beating the Warriors, 117-116.
• Mavs’ Cooper Flagg follows up 51-point performance with a 45-point game in win vs. Lakers. 

The Golden State Warriors lost their 42nd game of the season Sunday night, ensuring they will finish under .500 for the first time since 2021.

And yet, none of that mattered because for the first time in nearly two months, Steph Curry was back on the floor.

In his return, Curry looked like himself with the same combination of flare and ultra-efficiency that has defined his game throughout his career. He finished with 29 points on 11-of-21 shooting from the field, including 5-of-10 from beyond the arc in 26 minutes of playing time.

More importantly, he told reporters afterward that he “felt good” — a sign the Warriors will gladly take after a 27-game stretch without their franchise cornerstone.

Despite not starting as the Warriors ease him back into action, Curry immediately shifted the energy of the team. The moment he checked in, the Chase Center crowd rose to its feet, delivering a reminder of just how much he means to the entire organization.

And with his return came a moment that felt bigger than the game itself.

For the first time since Seth Curry joined the Warriors, the Curry brothers shared the floor together. After the game, the two described the special moment as a dream come true.

The game itself nearly gave Curry a storybook ending.

Golden State held a late lead after Gary Payton II converted an open layup to put them ahead by one with 19.6 seconds remaining. But Houston answered, as Alperen Sengun delivered a clutch bucket on the other end, flipping the pressure back onto the Warriors and setting the stage for a familiar script.

One last shot, 11 seconds on the clock, and the ball in Curry’s hands.

He came off a Draymond Green screen and got a clean look from three to win it, but this time it didn’t fall in, and the Warriors lost, 117-116.

In the bigger picture, Sunday’s result won’t carry much weight anyway. With just four games remaining, the Warriors are essentially locked into the 10th seed in the Western Conference, making these final games more about building momentum for the Play-In Tournament — and reintegrating Curry — than the result itself.

Still, Curry’s return drastically changed the belief of the entire team. In a nightmare season defined by injuries, simply getting back their best player felt like the biggest win of the year.

For more on this and other news around the NBA, here is our latest news round-up for Monday, April 6th:

Warriors News:

Steph Curry returns for Warriors, reminds everyone: ‘He’s Steph Curry for a reason’ | The Athletic

Curry admitted on Saturday that he has to face a “new normal” with his knee. He has done all the rehab work he can do, but there remains a chance the pain could return. As for his first test back, Curry passed with flying colors, according to Kerr. The Warriors enjoyed having their leader back on the floor, knowing he can lift them when they are down.

“I don’t think there’s a tougher defender in the league for him to have his first game against than Amen Thompson,” Kerr said. “So that’s quite a test. Steph looked amazing. He’s worked really hard for this. You can see it doesn’t take much for him to find his rhythm. And his rhythm is also our rhythm. All the off-ball stuff that we get as a result of his movement.”

Kevin Durant credits ‘incredible’ Steph Curry after Warriors’ loss to Rockets | NBC Sports Bay Area

“We had the game in control, and then they put No. 30 in the game, and he got them back into it so easily,” Durant told Grant Liffmann of NBA on NBC. “He makes shots so quickly, and he looked incredible after a couple of months off.”

Steph Curry, Warriors comment on the star’s exciting return in loss to Rockets | NBC Sports Bay Area

NBA News:

Flagg passes Knueppel in ROY odds after ‘statement’ game | ESPN

Flagg followed up his teenage-record 51-point performance in Friday’s loss to the Orlando Magic with 45 points in a near triple-double in Sunday’s 134-128 win over the Los Angeles Lakers.

“I think it’s definitely some sort of statement,” said Flagg, who also had nine assists, eight rebounds, two steals and a block in the victory. “But it just goes back to what I said: I’m confident in myself, and I know what I’m capable of. I’ll just let the rest of the stuff figure itself out.”

Seeding possibilities for the final week of the NBA regular season

In case you missed it at Golden State of Mind:

Report: Warriors to fill out roster by signing Charles Bassey

In 17 games (16 starts) with the Santa Cruz Warriors this season, Bassey averaged 20.4 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks in 29.1 minutes per game on 61.0%/40.5%/.65.9% shooting. In eight NBA games, he’s averaged 2.9 points and 2.6 rebounds on 62.5% shooting from the field in 6.6 minutes per game (15.6 points, 14.3 rebounds, 2.7 blocks, and 1.4 steals per 36 minutes).

Follow @unstoppablebaby on X for all the latest news on the Golden State Warriors.

North Carolina appears to have found its next head coach and, surprise, it is someone no one was really talking about. Despite connections to the university due to his daughter playing volleyball at Carolina, former Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone was not a name you heard a lot of in relation to the Tar Heels’ head coaching job.

However, despite that, sources have told people at ESPN that he will be the next coach at UNC. There will be plenty of time to deep dive into this later, but just a quick history of a current NBA announcer who has not coached any basketball in over a year after he was surprisingly fired from the Nuggets three games before the NBA season ended. Malone does have college experience having served as a college assistant at Oakland, Providence, and Manhattan, though all of that was 25 years ago. Malone is most famous for being an NBA coach who led the Denver Nuggets to their first and only championship in 2023 and being the head coach of the emergence of Nikola Jokic as he became one of the best (if not best) players in the NBA.

Malone will be expected to quickly adjust to the ever-changing world of college sports while navigating NIL deals, the transfer portal that opens tomorrow, and recruiting for the first time. The task will be a tall one and one should have a multitude of questions of whether or not he can do this at a high level, especially after what fans just experienced with a football coach attempting the same thing this past season.

What do you think of this? Let us know in the comments below.