Darius Acuff, a guard who spent a single season at the University of Arkansas, heard his name called seventh overall as the Sacramento Kings selected him in the 2026 NBA Draft. The pick marks the fifth one‑and‑done selection in Razorbacks history and the 17th first‑round choice from Arkansas.
A Razorbacks Legacy
Acuff arrived in Fayetteville after a highly anticipated recruiting cycle and quickly established himself as the team’s offensive engine. He helped the Razorbacks capture the SEC Tournament title and guide the club to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament, showcasing a blend of scoring and playmaking that set him apart.
His collegiate résumé includes a Bob Cousy Award, consensus First‑Team All‑American honors, and a season in which he averaged 23.5 points and 6.4 assists per game. The performance placed him among Arkansas’ most celebrated prospects, ranking as the fourth‑earliest NBA Draft selection in school history.
NBA Destination
The Kings, who finished the previous NBA season with a 40‑42 record, have long admired Acuff’s skill set. The franchise even opened its practice facilities to Arkansas during the NCAA Tournament, underscoring the mutual interest that culminated in the draft night selection.
Acuff joins a roster that includes other Arkansas alumni such as Moses Moody, Anthony Black, Nick Smith, and Jordan Walsh, all of whom have carved out roles in the league. His arrival adds to a lineage of Razorbacks guards who have transitioned successfully to the NBA.
Looking Ahead
While analysts view Acuff as a high‑level offensive prospect, questions remain about his defensive versatility and physical size against NBA front‑court players. Nonetheless, his draft position reflects the confidence the Kings have in his potential to contribute immediately as a playmaker and scorer.
The selection also ties head coach John Calipari to a new milestone, extending his record as the coach with the most first‑round picks in NBA history, surpassing even Mike Krzyzewski’s previous benchmark.