The 2026 NBA Draft saw a significant drop in early entry candidates, with only 71 players declaring, the lowest in over 20 years, as many opted to return to college due to lucrative NIL deals. While several notable prospects, including Thomas Haugh and Braylon Mullins, chose to stay in school, more than 25 candidates are expected to remain in the draft, with a withdrawal deadline of May 27. Players like AJ Dybantsa and Cameron Boozer are projected to stay in the draft, while others have confirmed their return to college basketball. International candidates face a withdrawal deadline on June 13, with players such as Luigi Suigo having attended the draft combine.
