Tobi Lawal 2026 Draft Media Availability
Tobi Lawal addresses the media after being selected No. 48 overall in the 2026 NBA Draft.
Overview
Tobi Lawal did not pick up a basketball until he was 16, growing up in London and starring for the City of London Academy before crossing the Atlantic. At Lee Academy Prep, he was dominant, averaging 14.5 points, 11.4 rebounds, 3.0 blocks and 2.0 steals while shooting 67% from the floor. He started his college career at VCU, then transferred to Virginia Tech, where his game took off. As a senior, he posted 12.3 points, 8.5 rebounds and 1.1 blocks in 29.1 minutes per game on 54%/25%/76% shooting splits. He made 17 starts in 23 appearances and piled up six double-doubles, seventh-most in the ACC, including two 15-rebound nights. He recorded a career-high five blocks vs. Louisville and led the Hokies in rebounding for a second straight season. Along the way, he earned Fort Myers Tip-Off All-Tournament honors and a spot on the All-ACC Academic Team.
Analysis
Lawal is one of the most explosive leapers in this class. His vertical pop ranks among the best ever measured at the combine. He plays above the rim with ease, rising for lobs, putback dunks and transition finishes that few defenders dare to contest. The forward absorbs contact and finishes through bodies when he can’t get over them. He converts well around the basket and attacks the offensive glass relentlessly. Currently, Lawal’s handle is still developing, so he is more of a play finisher rather than creator. He’s flashed catch-and-shoot touch. Lawal’s length and athleticism allow him to guard multiple positions.
Projection
Lawal projects as a high-energy forward who finishes lobs, runs the floor, crashes the glass and switches across positions on defense. NBA comparisons to Lawal are often made to high-flying forwards like Derrick Jones and Aaron Gordon. With his motor, his frame and a jumper that keeps improving, he profiles as the kind of play-finisher and rim-runner that
— Profile by RotoWire.com