March Madness usually means chaos for the sports world, but for the reigning champ, the Oklahoma City Thunder, March Madness is the pinnacle of scouting for Sam Presti and company. In this instance, they are looking to add, in what hopes to be an impending dynasty.
The 2026 draft class is shaping up to be one of the most talented in quite some time. For a team with draft capital like Oklahoma City’s, March Madness is a crucial data point in the organization’s successful blueprint.
Here are four prospects to watch for March Madness.
OKC Thunder Prospects to Watch
Milan Momcilovic, Forward, Iowa State
- Why watch: Momcilovic is one of, if not the best, shooting prospects, shooting 49.6% from beyond the arc on 7.5 attempts per game, which addresses what every contender can never have enough of: elite perimeter shooting and gravity. At 6-foot-8, he not only provides elite perimeter shooting, off-ball and gravity, allowing Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren to operate with more space, but also positional size in an area the Thunder lacks. He provides necessary forward depth and bolsters the Thunder’s perimeter shooting.
- Tournament Focus: His ability to shoot in a multitude of ways and how much his defensive tenacity shines under high-pressure situations during Iowa State’s tournament run.
Dailyn Swain, Texas, Wing
- Why watch: One of the fastest-rising players in the 2026 class. His combination of size, skill, and athleticism makes him an intriguing prospect. Listed at 6-foot-8, Swain adds two-way versatility and upside as a creator, adding even more intrigue as a prospect. He checks the boxes for what the Thunder value and need.
- Tournament Focus: His creation ability against the elites in a high-pressure environment during the tournament.
Yaxel Lendeborg, Michigan, Forward
- Why watch: Listed at 6-foot-9, Lendeborg is one of the more do-it-all, versatile forwards in the 2026 class, and his ability to fill in multiple positions and play multiple roles on both ends is such a valuable trait in the NBA. His size, length, and feel for the game make him an ideal fit for the Thunder. He provides necessary frontcourt depth along with interior presence and versatility.
- Tournament Focus: His ability to shut down an opponent’s best player while efficiently and fluidly contributing offensively.
Nate Ament, Tennessee, Forward
- Why watch: Listed at 6-foot-10, Ament is viewed as one of the highest-ceiling players in the 2026 class, and the potential to be paired with OKC’s culture and the way they develop their players could do wonders for both sides. His upside as a scorer and defender, along with his size, makes him an intriguing prospect, adding the necessary size and length to the Thunder’s frontcourt depth, which needs a bigger wing.
- Tournament Focus: Consistency and his ability to handle physicality against the elites in the tournament.
The Thunder will prioritize prospects who will not only enhance the strengths of this loaded roster but also provide upside as they address their weaknesses. In this upcoming class, Oklahoma City has the opportunity to do just that!
Main Image: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
