Azuolas Tubelis Declares for 2026 NBA Draft

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, February 27th 2026 at 18:15 GMT by Arizona Daily Star
      Locales: Arizona, California, UNITED STATES

Arizona Wildcats Forward Azuolas Tubelis Declares for 2026 NBA Draft

TUCSON, AZ - Azuolas Tubelis, the star forward for the University of Arizona men's basketball team, announced his intention to enter the 2026 NBA Draft on Thursday, February 26th, 2026. The junior, coming off a stellar season where he earned Pac-12 Player of the Year honors, will forgo his final year of collegiate eligibility to pursue a professional basketball career. However, Tubelis has strategically declared for the draft, retaining a pathway to return to Arizona should he choose, a move increasingly common among top college prospects.

The announcement comes as little surprise to those who have followed Tubelis's trajectory over the past three seasons with the Wildcats. He quickly established himself as a key player, culminating in a dominant junior year where he averaged an impressive 18.5 points and 6.7 rebounds per game - leading Arizona in both categories. His scoring prowess and rebounding ability were cornerstones of the Wildcats' success this season, contributing significantly to their position as a national contender. The fact that he's been a consistent presence on NBA scouts' radars for quite some time reinforces the logic behind this decision.

While projections currently place Tubelis as a likely second-round pick, his stock could rise significantly between now and the draft in June. The NBA landscape is constantly evolving, and a strong showing in pre-draft workouts and combines could easily elevate his position. Modern NBA teams are increasingly valuing versatile, skilled forwards who can score in multiple ways and contribute defensively - a description that fits Tubelis well. His size, combined with his ability to stretch the floor with his shooting, makes him an attractive prospect for a league that prioritizes positionless basketball.

Tubelis joins a growing list of Arizona players opting to test the professional waters. He follows in the footsteps of Benedict Mathurin, who was drafted by the Indiana Pacers in 2024, and Dalen Terry, who declared last year but ultimately decided to return to Tucson for another season. Terry's experience provides a unique parallel to Tubelis's situation. The ability to declare and retain eligibility allows players to gauge their draft prospects without fully committing, offering a valuable safety net.

Arizona head coach Tommy Lloyd, in a statement released by the university, expressed his support for Tubelis's decision. "Azuolas has been a joy to coach and a great ambassador for our program," Lloyd said. "He's made a huge impact on and off the court. We're proud of him and wish him the best in his future endeavors." Lloyd, known for his player-first approach and emphasis on developing talent, has quickly built a reputation for fostering an environment where players can thrive and achieve their basketball dreams. The success of players like Tubelis and Mathurin under Lloyd's guidance is a testament to his coaching abilities and the strength of the Arizona basketball program.

The Wildcats now face the challenge of replacing their leading scorer and rebounder. The team will need to rely on returning players and incoming recruits to fill the void left by Tubelis's departure. Sophomore guard Kylan Boswell is expected to take on a larger role offensively, and the arrival of highly-rated freshman forward Jalen Washington could provide a boost in the frontcourt.

The decision by Tubelis is part of a larger trend in college basketball, where players are increasingly opting to turn professional after just three years of college. The rise of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities has also played a role, allowing college athletes to earn money while still in school, but the lure of a guaranteed NBA contract remains a powerful incentive. Furthermore, the changing landscape of college athletics, with the introduction of the transfer portal and the increasing focus on short-term success, has contributed to a more transient player base.

Tubelis's time at Arizona will be remembered fondly by Wildcats fans. His on-court performance, combined with his positive attitude and work ethic, made him a fan favorite. As he embarks on the next chapter of his basketball journey, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence and a lasting impact on the Arizona basketball program.