Get ready for an exciting NBA season, as the college basketball exhibition games are already setting the stage for some incredible talent to shine! The future of the NBA is here, and these young stars are ready to make their mark.
With the 2025-26 NBA season just around the corner, teams are gearing up and showcasing their skills in pre-season exhibitions. These matchups are a thrilling preview of what's to come, and two potential first-round picks are already turning heads.
In a recent thrilling contest between Oklahoma State and Auburn, Tahaad Pettiford, a potential first-round pick, showcased his talent alongside a strong Cowboys team. Meanwhile, Florida State and Alabama's exhibition game featured Labaron Philon, another hopeful for the first round, who put up an impressive performance for the Crimson Tide. These games are a glimpse into the future of the NBA, and it's an exciting time for basketball fans.
But here's where it gets controversial... The spotlight also shines on AJ Dybantsa, a freshman and possible top pick, who starred for BYU in their game against Nebraska. Dybantsa's performance raises questions: Could a freshman make it to the top of the draft? It's a debate worth following as we head into the new season.
And this is the part most people miss... Cincinnati and Michigan's scrimmage was a nail-biter, with the Bearcats leading by a significant margin at halftime. However, the Wolverines fought back, outscoring their opponents in the second half. Despite the close call, Cincinnati secured a win, thanks to an impressive all-around performance.
One player who caught everyone's attention is Shon Abaev, a true freshman and former five-star recruit. Abaev, listed at 6'8" and 210 pounds, showcased his size and shooting prowess, finishing with 15 points and 2 rebounds. Hailing from Calvary Christian Academy (FL), Abaev was ranked as the No. 22 overall player and No. 6 small forward in the 2025 recruiting class. His performance against Michigan has NBA scouts taking notice.
Abaev's journey is an inspiring one. Starting in the lineup for Cincinnati, he seems to have found his groove early on. With a strong showing against Big 12 competition, Abaev could very well find himself in the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft. It's an exciting prospect for both the player and his team.
Another 2026 draft prospect, Yaxel Lendeborg, also shined in Michigan's loss to Cincinnati. Lendeborg, a seasoned player, tallied an impressive 31 points and 12 rebounds. Unlike Abaev, Lendeborg is not a freshman, but his impact is just as significant. Starting his college career at Arizona Western College before transferring to UAB, Lendeborg has already achieved remarkable feats, winning the American Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Year twice.
During the 2024-25 season, Lendeborg averaged impressive stats, including 17.7 points, 11.4 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.8 blocks, and 1.7 steals per game. With such a strong performance, Lendeborg tested the NBA Draft waters, measuring an impressive 6'8.5" without shoes and boasting a 7'4" wingspan. His measurements and skills have many believing he could secure a first-round spot in the 2026 class.
These exhibition games are a testament to the depth of talent in college basketball. As we eagerly await the start of the NBA season, keep an eye on these rising stars. Who will make it to the top? Only time will tell, but these players are certainly ones to watch.
What do you think? Who do you think will be the top picks in the 2026 NBA Draft? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
