OKC Thunder's Shocking First Round Picks: Will These 3 NCAA Stars Save Their Season?

The Oklahoma City Thunder find themselves in a unique and promising situation as the NBA season unfolds. With an impressive 17-1 record, the team boasts one of the ten best starts in NBA history. This success could be further compounded by the potential to acquire a top-10 pick in the upcoming 2026 NBA Draft, thanks to the Thunder’s ability to receive selections from teams like the Philadelphia 76ers, Houston Rockets, and Utah Jazz. This scenario could position Oklahoma City to secure three picks within the top 30, significantly enhancing their roster.

As the Thunder eye the draft, there is a strong possibility they will consider trading one or more of these valuable picks to either acquire future draft assets or move up in this year's draft class. Utilizing all three picks could allow Oklahoma City to further deepen their roster with young talent, setting the stage for sustained success.

Potential Draft Picks for the Thunder

ESPN's latest 2026 mock draft highlights potential selections that could land in Oklahoma City. Here’s a closer look at the three first-round picks projected for the Thunder:

No. 10: Dame Sarr

At the 10th overall pick, ESPN's Jeremy Woo has projected the Thunder to select Dame Sarr, a forward from Duke University. Rated as a five-star prospect by 247Sports, Sarr's journey to the Blue Devils included a stint playing professionally with FC Barcelona. Originally hailing from Italy, the 19-year-old is currently averaging 8 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.1 assists, and 1.7 steals per game, while shooting 46.2% from the field and 40% from three-point range on 3.6 attempts per game. His robust stats might be even more impressive if not for the intense competition for touches from fellow top prospects like Cameron Boozer.

Standing at 6-foot-8 and weighing 190 pounds, Sarr's size and versatility on the wing could make him an ideal fit for the Thunder. With a roster that possesses depth but lacks wing players of Sarr's caliber, his addition could significantly enhance Oklahoma City's dynamics.

No. 23: Dash Daniels

The 23rd pick may bring Dash Daniels, the younger brother of Atlanta Hawks star Dyson Daniels, to Oklahoma City. Known for his strong defensive skills, Dash is a young floor general still refining his offensive game. Currently playing for Melbourne United in the NBL, the 17-year-old averages 5.7 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game, shooting 45% from the field. Listing at 6-foot-5 and 198 pounds, his development trajectory could align well with the Thunder's current roster, which thrives on tough, defensive-minded players.

No. 28: Alex Condon

Finally, the 28th pick might see the Thunder targeting Alex Condon, an experienced big man who could add further depth to Oklahoma City's center rotation. Following the drafting of Thomas Sorber in 2025, who is currently recovering from a torn ACL, Condon's experience could provide a more immediate solution as the Thunder navigate potential changes in their roster. The Florida star is having a standout season, averaging 17.2 points, 9 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game, while shooting an impressive 58.5% from the field. His contributions helped the Gators clinch a national title in 2025, and he continues to take significant steps forward in his development.

With a strategic approach to the draft, the Thunder not only have the opportunity to bolster their current roster but also to establish a brighter future. The combination of a strong record and multiple high-value draft picks positions Oklahoma City as a team to watch in the coming years, both on and off the court.

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