Keaton Wagler declares for NBA draft: Where Illinois star lands in latest mock

TL;DR

Keaton Wagler has declared for the 2026 NBA Draft and is projected to be selected 7th overall by the Dallas Mavericks in the latest mock draft. NBA scouts are analyzing performances from the NCAA Tournament to predict future talent.

NBA general managers and scouts are heading home from the 2026 men's NCAA Tournament with plenty to think about after three weeks of incredible action on the court. Now they have to figure out which March Madness performances are indicators of future greatness and which are more of a mirage.

The 2026 NBA draft is expected to take place in late June. In USA TODAY's latest mock draft, Illinois's Keaton Wagler is expected to go in the first round after declaring on Saturday night. Here's how USA TODAY currently projects the Guard's draft night will play out.

Our draft order is based on ESPN's projected records and factors in trades, including swaps and protections.

Keaton Wagler 2026 NBA Draft prediction: Pick No. 7 overall, Dallas Mavericks

Kalbrosky's Analysis:

The Mavericks have the worst offensive rating in the Western Conference and could benefit from a player like Illinois standout Keaton Wagler. The 19-year-old guard played a crucial role to earn a spot in the Final Four, where he recorded 20 points and 8 rebounds against UConn. The freshman also dropped 25 points in the Elite Eight. He projects as one of the best 3-point shooters in this class, shooting 39.7 percent from beyond the arc as a freshman while connecting on as many as nine 3-pointers in a game. The Big Ten Rookie of the Year has athletic limitations but is a cerebral basketball player who is also averaging 5.1 rebounds and 4.2 assists per game this season.

See USA TODAY's full mock draft 9.0 here