2026 NBA Draft: Is Mikel Brown Jr. a starting point guard at the next level? What can his high school career tell us about his professional future?

Averaged 27.1 points, 5.6 rebounds and 5.1 assists per contest as a senior at DME Academy.

Thumbnail image of this articles writer: Jordan Divens
By
Jun 3, 2026, 10:00am
Mikel Brown Jr. is projected to be a top 10 selection in the upcoming NBA Draft set for Monday, June 23 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, N.Y.

During his lone season at Louisville, Brown averaged 18.2 points, 4.7 assists and 3.3 rebounds per game while shooting 41.0 percent from the field, 34.4 percent from 3-point range and 84.4 percent from the free throw line.

Prior to his promising freshman season with the Cardinals that was cut short by injury, Brown was a standout at DME Academy (Daytona Beach, Fla.), Orlando Christian Prep (Orlando, Fla.) and Overtime Elite during his high school career.

Read on for a closer look at what Brown's high school career might tell us about his NBA future.
Mikel Brown Jr. broke the ACC single-game freshman scoring record with 45 points against North Carolina State. (FILE PHOTO: Eugene Alonzo)
Mikel Brown Jr. broke the ACC single-game freshman scoring record with 45 points against North Carolina State. (FILE PHOTO: Eugene Alonzo)

Prospect Report Card

High school record/path: Began his high school career at Orlando Christian Prep before playing in the Overtime Elite league during his junior season. As a senior, he played at DME Academy where he helped lead the team to a record of 24-12.

Stats/accomplishments: As a senior, Brown averaged 27.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, 5.1 assists and 2.1 steals per contest to earn third team MaxPreps All-America honors in 2024-25.

Outstanding achievement: Led USA Basketball U19 team to the gold medal at the 2025 FIBA World Cup, averaging 14.9 points and 6.1 assists per game – both team highs at the event.

Needs work: While Brown showed flashes during his freshman season, he struggled with his consistency as he shot just above 40 percent from the field and below 35 percent from 3-point range. He also struggled defensively at times.

Best fit/likely landing spot: Brown is projected to be selected somewhere in the No. 5-10 range. The Dallas Mavericks could be an ideal fit as the team looks to align with a younger core built around Cooper Flagg.

Grades

Pro potential: B-
2025-26 college season: B-
High school resume: B-

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