Arizona freshman Koa Peat announces draft decision ahead of deadline

Arizona freshman Koa Peat announced on social media that he is declaring for the 2026 NBA draft ahead of the early entry deadline on Friday.

Peat was a third-team All-Big 12 selection, averaging 14.1 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.6 assists while shooting 35% from 3-point range in 36 games. He was also named to the Big 12 All-Freshman team, along with teammate Brayden Burries.

The 6-foot-8 forward debuted with a 30-point performance on Nov. 3 in a win over No. 3 Florida, the second-most by a freshman in program history (Eric Money, 37; 1972). He was the first Big 12 player with at least 30 points and five assists in a debut.

Peat is projected to be a mid-to-late first-round pick this year because of his scoring in the paint, with his ball-fakes, hesitation moves and jump shot. He also boasts great strength, enabling him to convert difficult finishes at the rim and get to the free-throw line.

The 19-year-old wasn't much of a floor spacer with the Wildcats, converting only 7-for-20 from beyond the arc (35%). He will certainly need to become a consistent shooter to maximize his draft stock and potential at the next level.

Peat is a part of a highly touted draft class with the likes of Darius Acuff Jr., Cameron Boozer, Mikel Brown Jr., AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson and Caleb Wilson projected to be high selections. The group is considered one of the most talented in recent memory.

This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Arizona news: Freshman Koa Peat announces 2026 NBA draft decision