U.S. College and NBA Draft Buzz Builds Around Noam Yaacov

Noam Yaacov posted a photo on Saturday from the Dallas Mavericks practice facility as he works through 2026 NBA Draft preparations, which are set to take place this week. But despite the draft attention, the University of Utah expects the Israeli guard to join its roster next season.

Brandon Judd, who covers the NCAA team, wrote that “Yaacov will be the engine of Utah.” He added that Utah fans will follow him through the draft, and that although he is projected to be selected in the second round, he is expected to play for the school next season according to reports. The article also said Utah supporters were especially excited to see him in the school’s red uniform, as the program tries to return to its former glory under former Utah star and new coach Alex Jensen.

CBS described Utah as potentially getting “one of the best guards in the Big 12” next season. The outlet said Yaacov, who will turn 22 before the season begins, should lead the team with his ability to run pick and rolls and create easy shots, and could enter the conference’s player-of-the-year discussion. The piece also raised the question of whether his arrival could help end Utah’s NCAA Tournament drought, which has lasted for more than a decade.

Recent draft projections have placed Yaacov 57th in The Athletic’s rankings. The outlet said he was “a big fish in a small pond” last season and suggested he could be picked and then sent to Utah, where he has already committed to play. Most forecasts have him going late in the second round, or possibly not being selected at all, though On3 was especially high on him and projected Oklahoma City to take him at No. 37.