2026 Final Four: The NBA Draft prospects to watch on Arizona, Michigan, Illinois and UConn

The Final Four is certainly about cutting down nets, but it’s also a showcase for future NBA talent. Arizona, Michigan, Illinois and UConn are stacked with prospects that’ll appear in the 2026 draft and in the classes to come. This list ranks 24 Final Four prospects from the lottery locks to the deep cuts: FIRST-ROUND LOCKS 1.

Keaton Wagler, 6-6, Illinois freshman guard Wagler was never expected to be a one-and-done, and yet here he is, as the star freshman of a Final Four team. He's not an elite vertical athlete, as evidenced by his zero dunks on the year. But he is 6-foot-6 with a long wingspan, has elite footwork, can decelerate on drives, and has an excellent feel for the game.

Even when he’s not scoring, he can make an impact with his passing, and his defending and rebounding; he had seven assists in the opening round and a 12-rebound effort in the Sweet 16. Wagner may not jump out of the gym, but he’s a complete player who is proving to be a winner. (Bruno Rouby/Yahoo Sports Illustration) 2.

Brayden Burries, 6-4, Arizona freshman guard With Arizona up 13 with only 3:20 to go in the Elite 8, Burries dove head first for a loose ball, grabbed it, then flipped it to his teammate for an open layup. Some players would've relaxed with the big lead, but Burries stays pedal to the metal. While that sums up one of his most attractive qualities, watch Arizona in the Final Four and you'll see he's not just a hustle guy.