Louisville freshman guard Mikel Brown Jr. has declared for the 2026 NBA Draft, ESPN Andscape reported.
The 6-foot-5 guard is at present projected because the No. 7 total decide by ESPN’s Jeremy Woo.
Brown averaged 18.2 factors, 4.7 assists, and three.3 rebounds in 21 video games earlier than a decrease again damage ended his season. He posted a 20.8 PER and missed 14 video games, together with the ACC and NCAA tournaments.
“Clearly, it’s simply been a dream of mine to have the ability to be on this place,” Brown mentioned.
“The little child in me would freaking scream simply to know that I’ve a chance to play on the highest stage, which has been a dream of mine since I began selecting up a basketball.”
He delivered a standout efficiency on February 9, scoring 45 factors in opposition to NC State, tying Wes Unseld’s program report and setting an ACC freshman mark.
Nonetheless, Brown pointed to his 29-point sport in opposition to Kentucky in November as his true breakout second.
“That Kentucky sport is once I felt like I simply made an announcement like, ‘Hey, I’m right here. I’m right here to remain,’” Brown mentioned.
Well being stays the principle concern forward of the draft.
Brown mentioned his again is bettering and expects to take part in predraft exercises and Summer season League. Regardless of the damage, he’s nonetheless considered by scouts as a possible top-10 decide.
Earlier than declaring, Brown consulted with Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell, a Louisville alum who has mentored him since highschool. He might be represented by Seros Companions.
Louisville’s Mikel Brown Jr. Declares For 2026 NBA Draft, Projected High-10 Choose https://t.co/2SiymQwAEV
— RealGM (@RealGM) April 7, 2026
