A recent NCAA ruling granting players from the high school class of 2022 an extra year of eligibility has opened the door for several 2026 NBA Draft picks to return to college basketball.

Five second-round selections are now eligible for a fifth NCAA season.

Among them, Dillon Mitchell, selected 40th overall by the Boston Celtics, and Tyler Nickel, the 47th pick by the New York Knicks, are reportedly considering returning to school.

The futures of Memphis Grizzlies second-round pick Richie Saunders, who is recovering from a torn ACL, and Golden State Warriors draftee Lajae Jones remain uncertain.

Meanwhile, Indiana Pacers draft pick Braden Smith has already ruled out a return to Purdue.

The NCAA’s career assists leader is instead focused on earning a standard NBA contract, with the Pacers currently holding one open roster spot.

Under NCAA rules, players who sign NBA contracts, including two-way deals, will lose their remaining college eligibility.

Teams will retain the NBA rights to any drafted players who choose to spend another season in the NCAA before turning professional.

Dillon Mitchell, Tyler Nickel Among 2026 Draftees Who Could Return To NCAA https://t.co/wClg4l8zsU