OKC Thunder’s Future: Two Five-Star Freshmen in 2026 Mock Draft
The Oklahoma City Thunder, a team already brimming with young talent, are looking ahead to the 2026 NBA Draft with keen interest. A recent mock draft from No Ceilings projects the Thunder to land three intriguing prospects, including two highly-touted five-star freshmen, further solidifying the team’s promising future right here in Oklahoma City.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 NBA Draft
Despite having one of the deepest rosters in the league, the Thunder hold the potential for three first-round picks in the 2026 cycle. This presents a unique opportunity to either add more high-ceiling talent or leverage these assets for strategic trades. The 2026 draft class is shaping up to be exceptionally talented, with many prospects already performing well in their early college careers during the 2025-26 season.
The Prospects Eyeing Oklahoma City
A recent mock draft by No Ceilings has highlighted three specific players who could find their way to Bricktown.
Shon Abaev: A Scoring Wing from Cincinnati
Projected as the No. 12 overall pick, Shon Abaev is a freshman guard from Cincinnati. Rated as a five-star recruit and the No. 22 overall player (No. 5 small forward) in the 2025 recruiting class by 247Sports, Abaev brings significant size and scoring ability. Standing at 6-foot-8 and 210 pounds, he averaged 11.3 points, 2.3 rebounds, and an assist per game in his first four college games, shooting 44.1% from the field. His diverse offensive skillset on the wing could be a valuable addition alongside the Thunder’s current array of defensive-minded players.
Bennett Stirtz: The Unheralded Point Guard
Slotted at No. 14 overall, Bennett Stirtz from Iowa has a unique journey. Unlike his five-star counterparts, Stirtz began his career at a Division II program before transferring to Drake and then to Iowa. Now a veteran point guard, he’s making waves with impressive early-season statistics. In three games, Stirtz is averaging 21.3 points, 5.3 assists, 3 rebounds, and 2.7 steals per game, shooting an efficient 58.8% from the field and 46.2% from beyond the arc. If he maintains this high level of play through Big Ten competition, his draft stock could soar.
Nikolas Khamenia: Another Five-Star Wing
Rounding out the Thunder’s projected picks at No. 27 overall is Nikolas Khamenia. Also a five-star recruit from the 2025 class, Khamenia was ranked as the No. 15 overall prospect and the No. 3 small forward nationally. Listed at 6-foot-8 and 215 pounds, he’s averaging 7.3 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game, shooting 42.9% from the field and 35.7% from three-point range in his first four games. While his production might be lower than Abaev’s early on, Khamenia has plenty of season left to showcase his skilled wing play.
Implications for the Thunder
Adding these three prospects could significantly bolster an already formidable Thunder roster. Abaev and Khamenia bring much-needed offensive versatility and size to the wing positions, complementing the team’s strong defensive identity. Stirtz, with his veteran leadership and playmaking abilities, could provide valuable depth at the point guard spot, offering a different dynamic than the team’s current young guards. These potential additions underscore the Thunder’s commitment to continuous improvement and their long-term vision for sustained success.
Key Prospects Overview
| Player | Projected Pick | College/Status | Recruiting Rank (2025) | Key Stats (Avg.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shon Abaev | No. 12 | Cincinnati Freshman | 5-star (No. 22 overall) | 11.3 Pts, 2.3 Reb, 1 Ast |
| Bennett Stirtz | No. 14 | Iowa Veteran Guard | Unheralded Recruit | 21.3 Pts, 5.3 Ast, 3 Reb, 2.7 Stl |
| Nikolas Khamenia | No. 27 | Freshman (College not specified) | 5-star (No. 15 overall) | 7.3 Pts, 4.8 Reb, 2.3 Ast |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is OKC looking at the draft with a deep roster?
The Thunder consistently prioritize long-term success. With potentially three first-round picks in 2026, they can continue to add high-ceiling talent, develop future stars, or utilize these valuable assets in trades for established players. - Who is Shon Abaev and what does he bring?
Shon Abaev is a 6’8″ Cincinnati freshman, rated a five-star recruit. He offers significant wing scoring and size, providing a diverse offensive threat that could add variety to the Thunder’s lineup. - What makes Bennett Stirtz’s journey noteworthy?
Stirtz’s path from a Division II program to excelling at Iowa showcases his impressive development and high motor. He brings veteran point guard play, exceptional scoring, and playmaking, making him a unique and valuable prospect. - How do these prospects fit the Thunder’s team philosophy?
Abaev and Khamenia add much-needed wing scoring, size, and offensive versatility, complementing the Thunder’s strong defensive foundation. Stirtz offers veteran guard experience and playmaking, diversifying the backcourt options. - What makes the 2026 NBA Draft class special?
The 2026 class is highlighted by a talented group of freshmen and other prospects who are already demonstrating high levels of performance in college, suggesting a deep pool of potential future NBA stars.
As the NBA season progresses and these prospects continue their collegiate careers, local Thunder fans will be keeping a close eye on their development, anticipating how these potential additions could further shape the team’s bright future in Oklahoma City.
OKC Thunder Two Five Star Freshmen Future Mock
