Brooklyn to Host the 2026 NBA Draft
The 2026 NBA Draft will unfold over two nights at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, drawing the league’s top talent and their families to a city that has become a frequent stage for basketball’s biggest moments.
From Duke’s storied program, three players are generating considerable buzz. Cameron Boozer and Isaiah Evans are both projected to hear their names called in the first round, while Maliq Brown is expected to be selected in the second round.
A Legacy of Blue‑Blood Selections
Under head coach Jon Scheyer, Duke has continued its tradition of producing NBA‑ready talent. In the past nine drafts, six players have been chosen in the first round, adding to a cumulative total of 116 Blue Devils drafted in the league’s history.
Boozer’s potential landing spots include the Utah Jazz or the Memphis Grizzlies, both of which have shown interest in his versatile skill set. Evans, meanwhile, is linked to the Boston Celtics, Atlanta Hawks, or Dallas Mavericks, teams that value his shooting and defensive instincts.
Brown’s projection to the second round has placed him on the radar of the Sacramento Kings and the Chicago Bulls, franchises that could benefit from his rebounding and interior presence.
The anticipation surrounding these prospects reflects not only individual ambition but also the continued influence of Duke’s coaching staff in shaping the next generation of NBA stars.