Kansas guard Darryn Peterson and BYU wing AJ Dybantsa, projected as the top two picks in ESPN’s 2026 NBA mock draft, both said they are not focused on draft speculation. The Big 12 standouts spoke Wednesday at conference media day, emphasizing their commitment to winning college games over future professional prospects.
Peterson, a 6-foot-6 five-star recruit projected to go No. 1, was named Big 12 Preseason Freshman of the Year. He earned a unanimous selection to the All-Big 12 preseason first team on Wednesday.
“I handle it by not even paying any attention to it,” Peterson told ESPN. “I’m just going to go out and play and win games.”
Dybantsa recorded 30 points on 10-for-19 shooting with seven rebounds and three steals in BYU’s 90-89 exhibition loss to Nebraska on Saturday. The 6-foot-9 forward was named to the Associated Press preseason All-America team on Monday.
Dybantsa said the road environment provided valuable experience despite the defeat. He noted several players experienced jitters in their first college game or first appearance with BYU.
“I think me and [Peterson] probably have similar mindsets, obviously, playing with him since I’ll say my freshman year,” Dybantsa said. “I don’t think he is too worried about [going No. 1]. I think he’s just really trying to prove himself as a college player and he’s probably got the same goal as me: to go out and win.”
UCF coach Johnny Dawkins praised Duke freshman Cameron Boozer after the projected No. 3 pick scored 33 points in Tuesday’s 96-71 exhibition victory. Boozer shot 4-for-7 from three-point range in the dominant performance.
“He’s terrific. He’s a great basketball player and he still has room to grow,” Dawkins said Wednesday. “When I saw that happen, I knew exactly who he’s going to be. He’s going to be a great college player and he’s going to be a terrific pro.”