After playing a key role in UConn’s run to the national championship game, freshman guard Braylon Mullins scored in double figures in five of six NCAA tournament contests and hit a game-winning three against Duke in the Elite Eight.
He now faces a decision about whether to declare for the draft.
Adam Zagoria of ZagsBlog.com examined that choice, noting that one NBA executive believes Mullins might benefit from returning to school for another season.
UConn head coach Dan Hurley shared a similar perspective during an appearance on The Dan Patrick Show, suggesting that staying could be the better option if Mullins isn’t projected as a clear lottery pick.
“Players like Braylon, he probably would make more money at UConn next year than he would if he was the 15th pick,” Hurley said.
At the same time, Mullins’ draft stock appears to be rising.
Jonathan Wasserman, who serves as the Lead NBA scout and draft insider for Bleacher Report and NBA TV, has him projected at No. 9 overall in his latest mock draft, while ESPN currently ranks him 17th among top prospects.
Baylor’s Tounde Yessoufou is among the latest entrants for the NBA draft: https://t.co/FsAOWjTuyX
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) April 12, 2026
