Houston's Chris Cenac Jr. declares for NBA draft: Latest mock projection

The forward-center is expected to be a first-round pick in the 2026 NBA Draft

Apr. 9, 2026 at 5:34pm

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Chris Cenac Jr., a forward-center from the University of Houston, has officially declared for the 2026 NBA Draft. According to USA TODAY's latest mock draft, Cenac Jr. is projected to be selected with the 22nd overall pick by the New York Knicks.

Why it matters

Cenac Jr.'s decision to enter the draft comes after a strong performance in the 2026 NCAA Tournament, where he showcased his versatility and potential as an NBA prospect. His selection by the Knicks would provide the team with a talented young player to build around as they look to return to the playoffs.

The details

During the NCAA Tournament, Cenac Jr. had several standout performances, including a 18-rebound game in the first round and a 17-point outing in the Round of 32. While he was quieter in the Sweet 16, he still managed to grab 10 rebounds. Cenac Jr.'s ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor has caught the attention of NBA scouts, leading to his projected first-round selection.

  • On April 9, 2026, Chris Cenac Jr. officially declared for the 2026 NBA Draft.
  • The 2026 NBA Draft is expected to take place in late June.

The players

Chris Cenac Jr.

A forward-center from the University of Houston who has officially declared for the 2026 NBA Draft after a strong performance in the NCAA Tournament.

New York Knicks

An NBA team that is projected to select Chris Cenac Jr. with the 22nd overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, according to USA TODAY's latest mock draft.

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What they’re saying

“It was an up-and-down season for former five-star recruit and McDonald's All-American Chris Cenac Jr. at Houston. While he still remains a candidate to return to college and improve his draft stock for the 2027 NBA Draft, Cenac Jr. got hot at the perfect time.”

— Kalbrosky, USA TODAY Analyst

What’s next

The 2026 NBA Draft will take place in late June, where Chris Cenac Jr. is expected to be selected by the New York Knicks with the 22nd overall pick.

The takeaway

Chris Cenac Jr.'s decision to declare for the 2026 NBA Draft comes after a strong showing in the NCAA Tournament, where he demonstrated his potential as a versatile forward-center. His projected selection by the New York Knicks in the first round could provide the team with a talented young player to build around as they look to return to the playoffs.