League date: January 1st, 2026

Stuart Beasley, the standout point guard from UCLA, remains the No. 1 draft prospect entering January, according to Sporting News.

The 18-year-old is putting up eye-catching numbers through nine games, averaging 23.2 points, 17.0 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game. Scouts currently grade his offense at B- and his defense at B, with continued evaluation underway.

If the draft were held today, the Utah Jazz — tied with the Washington Wizards at 9-23 for the league’s worst record — are projected to select Beasley with the top pick. Such a move would give Utah a crowded but talented backcourt.

The Jazz already feature Keyonte George (OVR 87), selected 16th overall in 2023, who is averaging 15.7 points and 5.5 assists in his third season. They also added Ace Bailey (OVR 79) with the 5th pick last year, and he’s contributing 11.7 points per game.

In Washington, the situation is also worth watching. The Wizards are led by Trae Young, but the 27-year-old holds a player option in 2026. Bilal Coulibaly (OVR 78) also has a team option that same year, giving Washington flexibility depending on how their rebuild unfolds.