Arkansas Star Darius Acuff Jr. Projected as Top-5 NBA Draft Pick

Acuff's dominant NCAA Tournament performance has him firmly in lottery conversation.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 2:38pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Darius Acuff Jr., the SEC Player of the Year from the University of Arkansas, is projected to be a top-5 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft according to the latest mock draft from The Sporting News. Acuff, a 6'3" guard, led the Razorbacks to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament, averaging 29.3 points and 5.3 assists per game. While his defense remains a work in progress, Acuff's elite playmaking and shooting ability have the Sacramento Kings, who hold the 5th overall pick, 'pretty darn high' on him as a potential franchise cornerstone.

Why it matters

Acuff is considered one of the most dynamic guard prospects in this year's draft class. His ability to score at all three levels and create for his teammates would be a major boost for the Kings, who have struggled to find a long-term solution at point guard. If Acuff lands in Sacramento, it could jumpstart the franchise's rebuild and provide their fanbase with an exciting new face of the team.

The details

In the NCAA Tournament, Acuff showcased his full offensive arsenal, averaging 29.3 points, 5.3 assists, and 4.0 rebounds per game as Arkansas reached the Sweet 16. His elite scoring and playmaking skills have scouts and executives around the league intrigued, despite some concerns about his defense and 6'3" frame. The Kings, who hold the 5th overall pick, are reportedly 'pretty darn high' on Acuff and view him as a potential long-term solution at the point guard position.

  • Acuff was named the SEC Player of the Year after the 2025-26 college basketball season.
  • The 2026 NBA Draft is scheduled for June 26, 2026.

The players

Darius Acuff Jr.

A 6'3" guard from the University of Arkansas who was named the SEC Player of the Year after leading the Razorbacks to the Sweet 16 of the 2026 NCAA Tournament.

Sacramento Kings

An NBA franchise that holds the 5th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft and is reportedly 'pretty darn high' on Darius Acuff Jr. as a potential long-term solution at point guard.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“While his defensive effort remains inconsistent, the Kings badly need a long-term option at the position over the 37-year-old free agent Russell Westbrook. Acuff's elite playmaking and lights-out shooting will be a much-needed addition.”

— Stephen Noh, NBA Mock Draft Analyst

What’s next

The 2026 NBA Draft will take place on June 26, 2026, where Darius Acuff Jr. is expected to be one of the first players selected, potentially by the Sacramento Kings with the 5th overall pick.

The takeaway

Darius Acuff Jr.'s dominant NCAA Tournament performance has firmly established him as one of the top guard prospects in the 2026 NBA Draft. If the Sacramento Kings are able to select him with the 5th overall pick, it could provide a much-needed boost to their backcourt and help jumpstart the franchise's rebuild around an exciting young talent.