Ranking the top players in 2026 NBA draft combine scrimmages this week

TL;DR

The 2026 NBA Draft Combine features notable players like Tarris Reed Jr. in five-on-five scrimmages. These events showcase potential first-round talent and allow early entry candidates to improve their draft stock.

Key points

2026 NBA Draft Combine features five-on-five scrimmages
Tarris Reed Jr. is a notable participant
Scrimmages showcase potential first-round talent
Early entry candidates can improve draft stock
Combine is held at Barclays Center in Brooklyn

Mentioned in this story

NBABarclays Center

Tarris Reed Jr.Oklahoma City ThunderJalen Williams

Several notable players, including former UConn star Tarris Reed Jr., will participate in the 2026 NBA Draft Combine five-on-five scrimmages.

While these scrimmages do not include big stars or players projected to hear their name called at the top of the draft next month at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, there is typically first-round talent broadcast on national TV for fans to watch and for front offices to evaluate.

The most interesting players are often the ones who declared as early entry candidates because if they perform well, they can skyrocket on draft boards (like Oklahoma City Thunder star Jalen Williams did in 2022) or return to college and make more money in the modern NIL era.

Here’s how the NBA draft combine scrimmage pool breaks down entering this week based on consensus rankings across major draft boards.

Early entry candidates with collegiate eligibility remaining

Tyler Tanner participates in the 2026 NBA Draft Combine at Wintrust Arena.

These players have the most on the line because they will use feedback to determine whether they return to school or stay in the draft. Kentucky big man Malachi Moreno, who is also an early entry candidate, was originally included on scrimmage rosters but opted not to participate.

Potential first round picks