From Darryn Peterson going second overall to Karim Lopez at No. 21, adidas’ 2026 draft class signals
Adidas Basketball is entering a new era.
On June 23, three adidas-signed athletes were selected in the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft — the brand’s strongest draft showing in recent memory. Leading the class was Darryn Peterson, taken second overall by the Utah Jazz, followed by Mikel Brown Jr. at No. 6 to the Brooklyn Nets, and Karim Lopez at No. 21 to the Memphis Grizzlies.
The trio represents the breadth of adidas’ global reach. The class spans college basketball programs across the United States and professional leagues throughout Europe, reflecting the brand’s investment in developing elite talent at every level of the game.
“We’re striving to be the basketball brand for the next generation of players,” said Max Steiger, Global General Manager of adidas Basketball. “Those who continue to push the game forward with both skill and personality. This draft class is a testament to that mission.”
A global footprint
Adidas has long positioned itself as the brand of the future in basketball, and this draft class reinforces that identity. Peterson, Brown, and Lopez now join an adidas roster that already includes Anthony Edwards, James Harden, Donovan Mitchell, Damian Lillard, and Jalen Williams — a lineup that spans every position and style of play.
As new adidas partners, the three rookies gain access to the brand’s full performance innovation ecosystem, partnership infrastructure, and product development programs as they prepare to make their mark at the highest level of professional basketball.
2026 adidas NBA Draft class
- Darryn Peterson — Selected 2nd overall by the Utah Jazz
- Mikel Brown Jr. — Selected 6th overall by the Brooklyn Nets
- Karim Lopez — Selected 21st overall by the Memphis Grizzlies
The next generation has arrived.
About adidas
adidas is a global leader in the sporting goods industry. Headquartered in Herzogenaurach/Germany, the company employs around 65,000 people across the globe and generated sales of € 24.8 billion in 2025.
Photo courtesy of adidas
Photo courtesy of adidas
