The 2026 NBA Draft has drawn 71 early entrants, representing the fewest number of underclassmen to declare for the draft since 2003. The figure marks a notable decline in college players testing professional waters compared to recent years.

Among the notable early entrants was USC guard Elijah Arenas, who initially declared for the draft but subsequently withdrew his name and announced his intention to return to USC for another collegiate season. Players have until a specified deadline to withdraw their names from draft consideration while maintaining college eligibility.

The reduced number of early entrants could reflect various factors affecting college basketball players' decisions, including changes in NCAA transfer portal rules, Name Image and Likeness (NIL) compensation opportunities, and evolving draft evaluation processes.

The trend represents a significant shift from peak years when dozens more underclassmen would test the draft waters. The current total suggests more players are choosing to remain in college basketball rather than pursue immediate professional opportunities.

Early entrants who do not withdraw their names by the deadline forfeit their remaining college eligibility, making the decision a critical juncture for players weighing their professional prospects against continued collegiate development.