Meleek Thomas Eyes Late Second-Round Spot in 2026 NBA Draft
Arkansas forward Meleek Thomas will hear his name called early in the second round of the 2026 NBA Draft on June 24, capping a whirlwind journey that saw him rise from a bench player to a key contributor for the Razorbacks.
The draft night will also mark the first time an Arkansas player is selected in the first round since Darius Acuff was taken seventh overall by the Sacramento Kings, a selection that underscored the SEC’s deep talent pool this year.
Thomas finished his freshman season averaging 15.6 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.5 assists while shooting 43.5 percent from the field and 41.6 percent from three‑point range. He erupted in the latter half of the schedule, scoring in double figures in 15 of his final 18 games and becoming a permanent starter on Jan. 20 against Vanderbilt.
His shooting exploded in SEC play, where he hit 48.7 percent from beyond the arc, a mark that still stands as an Arkansas record. The performance helped the Razorbacks capture the SEC Tournament title and advance to the Sweet 16, positioning Thomas as the second‑best scorer on a team that exceeded expectations.
After declaring for the draft on April 13 while still retaining his college eligibility, Thomas made the decision to forgo his sophomore year on May 28, a move that cleared the path for his professional transition.
A New Chapter for the Razorbacks
Thomas’s departure leaves a void in Arkansas’s frontcourt, but the program remains focused on building around the talent that helped it reach the Sweet 16. The coaching staff praised his work ethic and projected impact at the next level.
Fans will watch closely on draft night to see where Thomas lands, with early projections pointing to a team that values shooting and versatile wing play. Regardless of the destination, his Arkansas tenure will be remembered for a rapid rise and a lasting imprint on the program’s record books.