NBA · Draft
NBA Draft 2026
Expected June 25, 2026 · 60 picks · 2 rounds
The 2026 NBA Draft is expected on June 25, 2026 and will feature 60 picks across 2 rounds — 30 teams, 1 pick per round per team. The top 4 picks are determined by the NBA Draft Lottery in May. Eligible players must be at least 19 years old and 1 year removed from high school. The event airs on ESPN and ABC. SportBusy covers NBA Draft news, prospect rankings, lottery results, and team draft needs throughout the 2025-26 season.
Draft Details
Expected Date
June 25, 2026
Rounds
2 rounds (60 total picks)
Format
30 picks per round (one per NBA team)
Lottery Teams
14 non-playoff teams (best odds to worst record)
TV
ESPN / ABC
Eligibility
Must be 19 years old + 1 year post-high school
Lottery Date
May 2026 (approx. 2–3 weeks before draft)
International Players
Eligible — no age restriction for international players
Recent #1 Overall Draft Picks
| Year | #1 Pick | Selected By |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | TBD | TBD |
| 2024 | Alex Sarr | Washington Wizards |
| 2023 | Victor Wembanyama | San Antonio Spurs |
| 2022 | Paolo Banchero | Orlando Magic |
| 2021 | Cade Cunningham | Detroit Pistons |
| 2020 | Anthony Edwards | Minnesota Timberwolves |
| 2019 | Zion Williamson | New Orleans Pelicans |
| 2018 | DeAndre Ayton | Phoenix Suns |
| 2017 | Markelle Fultz | Philadelphia 76ers |
| 2016 | Ben Simmons | Philadelphia 76ers |
NBA Draft 2026 FAQ
When is the NBA Draft 2026?
The 2026 NBA Draft is expected on or around June 25, 2026 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. The NBA confirms the exact date in the spring.
What channel is the NBA Draft on?
The NBA Draft airs on ESPN and ABC in the United States, typically starting at 8 PM ET. The lottery special usually airs in May on ESPN.
How does the NBA Draft lottery work?
The 14 non-playoff teams enter the lottery for the top four picks. The team with the worst record has the best odds (14%) at the #1 pick.
How many rounds are in the NBA Draft?
Two rounds, 30 picks per round (60 total). Teams can trade picks subject to NBA rules.
Where is the NBA Draft 2026?
Expected at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY. The NBA announces the host venue several months before the event.
Who are the top prospects for NBA Draft 2026?
The 2026 class is still developing. Top college and international prospects emerge during the 2025-26 season — SportBusy updates rankings as the season progresses.
What are the NBA Draft age requirements?
Players must be at least 19 and one year removed from high school graduation (one-and-done). International players have different eligibility rules.
Can teams trade NBA Draft picks?
Yes, with restrictions including the Stepien Rule (no trading consecutive future first-round picks without exceptions).