Darius Acuff’s strong showing with Arkansas in the NCAA Tournament has significantly boosted his standing among NBA draft prospects, according to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line.
His play throughout March, beginning with the SEC Tournament, has pushed him into the top tier of guard prospects.
While Kansas guard Darryn Peterson is still widely viewed as the top guard and a likely top-three pick, Fischer reports that some teams are now “increasingly torn” between Peterson and Acuff.
In fact, a few organizations have started ranking Acuff ahead, with support from Arkansas coach John Calipari, who has praised Acuff as one of the most talented freshman guards he’s ever coached.
“Acuff definitely put himself even further on the map,” a veteran college scout told Fischer.
Elsewhere, Illinois guard Keaton Wagler is also climbing draft boards and is now seen as “a surefire top 10 pick” and a “near-consensus” top-three guard in a deep class.
Despite strong production, Duke’s Cameron Boozer hasn’t fully convinced scouts about his NBA translation, and Arizona’s Koa Peat has also seen his stock dip.
Concerns about Peat’s shooting have emerged, though Fischer notes his physicality should still make him a valuable role player and likely lottery selection.
Fischer’s Latest: Draft Prospects, Anti-Tanking Measures, Expansion Draft https://t.co/PxmAIcwQZE pic.twitter.com/bRFErWJ2HG
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) April 3, 2026
