During Wednesday’s episode of NBA Today on ESPN, Arkansas freshman guard Darius Acuff told Malika Andrews that he will declare for the 2026 NBA draft.
The move was expected, as Acuff is widely projected as a top-10 pick. He ranks sixth on ESPN’s big board and fifth in Jonathan Wasserman’s latest mock draft.
The 6’3″ guard started all 36 games in 2025/26, leading the SEC with 23.5 points and 6.4 assists per game while shooting .484/.440/.809.
His standout season, which included a Sweet 16 run, earned him SEC Player of the Year and consensus first-team All-American honors.
While some scouts have concerns about his defense, as Jeremy Woo notes, Acuff is viewed as a dynamic offensive talent. Arkansas coach John Calipari believes he’s being undervalued.
“I said it about Tyrese (Maxey). I’ve said it about a bunch of guys,” Calipari said. “I said it about Shai (Gilgeous-Alexander): ‘You’re going to regret passing on this kid.’ And I know there are other good players, but this kid (Acuff) is unique.”
Darius Acuff Declares For 2026 NBA Draft https://t.co/RE9c8f7z3Q
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) April 22, 2026
