Louisville's Mikel Brown Jr. Declares For 2026 NBA Draft, Projected Top-10 Pick

He missed 14 games, including both the ACC and NCAA tournaments. Obviously, it's just been a dream of mine to be able to be in this position, Brown said. The little kid in me would freaking scream just to know that I have an opportunity to play at the highest level, which has been a dream of mine since I started picking up a basketball. Brown delivered one of Louisville's most memorable individual performances on February 9, scoring 45 points against NC State. The effort tied Wes Unseld's 1967 program record and set a new ACC freshman scoring mark. Still, Brown considers his 29-point effort in a November victory over rival Kentucky his true breakout moment. That Kentucky game is when I felt like I just made a statement like, 'Hey, I'm here. I'm here to stay,' Brown said. Health remains the central question surrounding his draft stock. Brown said his back is improving with daily treatment and he expects to participate in predraft workouts and NBA Summer League in July. One NBA scout said Brown remains a projected top-10 pick despite the injury concern. Brown consulted with Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell, a Louisville alumnus and seven-time All-Star, before declaring. Mitchell has served as a mentor since the two connected during Brown's junior year of high school. Brown will be represented by Seros Partners.