Braylon Mullins Spurns NBA Draft to Return to UConn After Iconic Duke 40-Foot Shot

Braylon Mullins will return to UConn for his sophomore season, foregoing a likely top-25 selection in the 2026 NBA Draft. This decision follows his game-changing 40-foot shot against Duke in the NCAA tournament.

Braylon Mullins announced his return to UConn for his sophomore season, electing not to declare for the NBA Draft. This decision means Mullins foregoes a projected top-25 selection in the 2026 NBA Draft, according to NBA sources. His choice signals a strategic move to further develop his game before entering professional ranks.

During the Elite Eight against Duke, Mullins executed a 40-foot three-pointer. This shot propelled UConn to complete a 19-point comeback, securing their place in the Final Four. Mullins displayed elite shot-making ability throughout his freshman year, despite an ankle injury that delayed his season start by six games.

NBA observers considered Mullins a lock for a top-25 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, had he chosen to declare. His freshman year saw him average 12 points and 3.5 rebounds per game over 33 appearances. Mullins started 29 of those contests, making a notable impact with 17 points in his second collegiate game against Kansas.

Mullins' return positions him as a central figure for UConn’s offense next season. He joins new transfers Nik Khamenia and Najai Hines in a retooled lineup, aiming for another NCAA title run. His freshman three-point shooting percentage stood at 33.5 percent, while his two-point shooting reached 56.1 percent, often leveraging a strong midrange game.

An additional year at UConn allows Mullins to refine his perimeter shooting and physical development. This move could elevate his NBA Draft position to a lottery pick in the 2027 class, a draft cycle widely regarded as weaker than the current year. UConn, a program with two recent national titles, demonstrates its ability to retain high-level talent even with NBA opportunities present.

The basketball community will now closely observe Mullins' development. His performance next season will clarify his readiness for the professional ranks and potential ascent as a top NBA prospect.