The Los Angeles Clippers entered the 2026 NBA Draft hoping to add young talent capable of helping reshape the franchise following a disappointing season and significant roster changes. With veteran star James Harden no longer on the roster and questions surrounding how much longer Kawhi Leonard can remain at his peak, the organization used the draft to invest in its future.
Armed with the fifth overall selection acquired through a previous trade involving center Ivica Zubac, the Clippers selected Illinois standout Keaton Wagler, a player expected to complement guard Darius Garland and become a key piece of the team’s long-term plans. Los Angeles later added Cincinnati forward Baba Miller with the 36th overall pick before making another move to acquire the 57th selection from the Atlanta Hawks.
With that final pick, the Clippers chose promising international prospect Narcisse Ngoy, a talented big man who impressed scouts with his performance for Poitiers Basket 86 in France’s second division. The 21-year-old averaged 10.6 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game, showcasing the size, rebounding ability, and defensive presence that made him an intriguing late-round selection.
However, shortly after hearing his name called on draft night, Ngoy surprised many by announcing that he would not be joining the Clippers immediately. Instead, he revealed plans to honor his commitment to Auburn University and spend the upcoming season playing college basketball with the Auburn Tigers.
In a message shared on social media, Ngoy expressed gratitude to the Clippers for selecting him while making it clear that his focus remains on Auburn for the 2026 season.
The unusual situation stems from a recent NCAA rule that affects certain international players. Although Ngoy never formally declared for the NBA Draft, he became automatically eligible because he is an international prospect who will turn 22 before the start of the upcoming NBA season. As a result, NBA teams were permitted to select him despite his intention to play college basketball.
According to draft analyst Jonathan Givony, the automatic eligibility rule created a unique scenario in which Ngoy could be drafted while still retaining his college plans. Reports indicate that the player did not expect to be selected this year and is currently communicating with the Clippers to determine the next steps.
Despite the unexpected development, Los Angeles may ultimately benefit from the arrangement. By drafting Ngoy, the Clippers retain his NBA rights moving forward. If he develops into a star at Auburn and significantly improves his game over the next year, the franchise could find itself holding the rights to a much more valuable prospect than typically available with the 57th overall pick.
For now, Ngoy’s journey will continue in college basketball, where Auburn gains a talented frontcourt addition while the Clippers maintain a long-term investment in a player whose best basketball may still be ahead of him.
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