Koa Peat projected between 24th and 30th in NBA mock drafts, weighing college return

Mock drafts released by Bleacher Report and ESPN have Arizona freshman forward Koa Peat slated as a late first‑round pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, with projections ranging from No. 24 to the New York Knicks to No. 30 to the Dallas Mavericks via Oklahoma City. At the NBA Draft Combine, Peat measured 6‑foot‑7 without shoes and showed strong interior play but struggled on shooting drills, hitting 28% on the three‑point star drill and 24% on spot‑up shooting. He averaged 14.1 points per game this season, made 20 three‑pointers (35% accuracy) and shot 52.8% from the field overall.

Analysts note that Peat still has until May 27 to decide whether to remain in college or declare for the draft. While his interior scoring and mid‑range ability are praised, scouts advise he improve his three‑point range before turning pro. The speculation has sparked debate on whether he will join the NBA this summer or return to Arizona for another collegiate season.