UConn Star Braylon Mullins Forgoes NBA Draft, Aims for Title Run

With Mullins returning, the Huskies are poised for another top-5 preseason ranking.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 10:50pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a college basketball player in motion, with sharp planes of navy, crimson, and gold colors, conveying the energy and artistry of the sport.A cubist interpretation of UConn star Braylon Mullins' dynamic play style, as he returns to lead the Huskies' quest for a national championship.Durham Today

UConn freshman Braylon Mullins, a potential 2026 NBA Draft lottery pick, has decided to forgo the draft and return to the Huskies for his sophomore season. Despite dealing with injuries and playing in a balanced offense, Mullins made a name for himself with clutch performances in the NCAA Tournament, including a game-winning 3-pointer against Duke. With Mullins leading an experienced perimeter group and the Huskies adding key transfers, UConn is set to be ranked in the top-5 to start the 2026-27 season.

Why it matters

Mullins' decision to return to college is noteworthy, as many top prospects have been opting to enter the NBA Draft early in recent years. His return gives UConn a major boost as they aim to contend for another national championship, and it highlights the increasing compensation and opportunities available to elite college basketball players.

The details

Mullins, a 6-foot-6 wing, averaged 12 points, 3.5 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game as a freshman. Despite the modest stats, NBA scouts saw significant upside in Mullins and viewed him as a likely first-round pick had he declared for the 2026 draft. However, Mullins dealt with injuries throughout the season, including a preseason ankle issue and a midseason concussion. Additionally, UConn's egalitarian offense resulted in five double-digit scorers, limiting Mullins' individual numbers. But Mullins made a name for himself with clutch performances in the NCAA Tournament, including a game-winning 3-pointer against Duke in the Elite Eight and a 15-point outing in the Final Four against Illinois.

  • Mullins announced his decision to return to UConn on April 18, 2026.
  • Mullins missed the first six games of the 2025-26 season due to a preseason ankle injury.
  • Mullins suffered a concussion against Villanova in late January 2026, causing him to miss another game.

The players

Braylon Mullins

A 6-foot-6 wing who was a potential lottery pick in the 2026 NBA Draft but has decided to return to UConn for his sophomore season.

Dan Hurley

The head coach of the UConn Huskies, who will have a veteran-laden team with Mullins leading the way next season.

Solo Ball

A returning starter in UConn's backcourt, who will form a strong perimeter trio with Mullins and Silas Demary Jr.

Silas Demary Jr.

Another returning starter in UConn's backcourt, who will join Mullins and Ball to create one of the top guard groups in college basketball.

Najai Hines

A rising sophomore transfer from Seton Hall who will replace the departed Tarris Reed Jr. in UConn's frontcourt.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

Mullins will now focus on improving his physique and skill set in the offseason, with the goal of being a lottery pick in the 2027 NBA Draft.

The takeaway

Mullins' decision to return to UConn is a significant boost for the Huskies as they aim to contend for another national championship. His return, combined with an experienced roster and key additions, has UConn poised to be a top-5 team in the preseason rankings and a popular Final Four pick.