The 2026 NBA Draft Combine in Chicago brought nearly 120 prospects face to face with league scouts, general managers, and decision-makers, offering a rare chance to influence draft stock through physical testing and drills. While game film remains central to evaluation, measurements, agility times, and shooting accuracy help separate similar talents, especially in an era where players can return to college with NIL earnings. This year’s event highlighted dramatic shifts for several top prospects, with athletic performance either boosting or dampening expectations ahead of the June 23-24 draft.

A.J. Dybantsa of BYU emerged as a clear standout, recording a 42-inch max vertical jump and 33.5-inch no-step vertical, while also measuring over 6-foot-8 without shoes. He reinforced his status as a potential No. 1 pick by hitting 23 of 30 off-dribble 3-pointers. Duke’s Cameron Boozer and Kansas’ Darryn Peterson also tested well, with Boozer posting a 9-foot wingspan and 59% 3-point accuracy, and Peterson leading in shuttle run speed at 2.95 seconds. The competition among the top three remains tight.

On the other end, Koa Peat of Arizona shot just 36.2% from three and measured shorter than expected at 6-foot-7, raising concerns about his fit at the NBA level. Amari Allen of Alabama impressed with a 42.5-inch vertical but measured significantly shorter than his listed 6-foot-8, potentially affecting his draft position. Meanwhile, Santa Clara’s Allen Graves, once a rising name, underperformed across drills and may return to college. The combine continues to serve as a pivotal moment where raw data can reshape a player’s future.