Arkansas Guard Meleek Thomas Stays in 2026 NBA Draft
arkansas-guard-meleek-thomas-stays-in-2026-nba-draft
Meleek Thomas will remain in the 2026 NBA Draft, opting to surrender his remaining college eligibility instead of returning to Arkansas for a sophomore season, a person familiar with the decision told DraftExpress’ Jonathan Givony.
The withdrawal deadline for underclassmen seeking to keep their NCAA eligibility expired Wednesday at 11:59 p.m. ET. Thomas’ choice locks in his professional path ahead of next month’s draft.
As a freshman in 2025-26, the 19-year-old guard averaged 15.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.5 steals across 30.5 minutes. He appeared in 37 contests, starting 21, while shooting 41.6% on 5.3 three-point attempts per game and converting 84.3% of his free throws. The 6’3″ combo guard shared the backcourt with projected lottery pick Darius Acuff and joined him on the SEC All-Freshman Team.
Draft projections place Thomas late in the first round: Bleacher Report slots him No. 24, ESPN lists him at No. 26 and Yahoo Sports has him No. 28. Evaluators cite his perimeter shooting as his standout asset, while noting progress on the defensive end throughout the season.
Source: HoopsRumors
