Baba Miller Selected by Clippers with 36th Overall Pick in 2026 NBA Draft

Cincinnati forward Baba Miller etched his name into history as he became the first Bearcat drafted to the NBA since Jacob Evans back in 2018 after being selected by the Los Angeles Clippers with the 36th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.

The talented seven-footer started his career at Florida State back in 2022, where he spent the first two years of his career. However, he transferred to Florida Atlantic for the 2024-2025 season for his junior season. He then made the move to the Big 12 for his final season where he led the Bearcats in every statistical category, quickly becoming one of the primer players within the Big 12 conference.

Now, for Miller, his time in Clifton wasn't long, but he had quite the season to remember, as he led the Bearcats in scoring (13 points per game), rebounding (11 rebounds per game), and assists (3.7 assists per game) where he earned Big 12 Second Team Honors. Miller was just one of three players nationally to average 13/10/3 this past season joining the likes of Cameron Boozer, and Micheal Ajayi. Worth noting, Boozer was selected third overall by the Memphis Grizzlies in the first round of the 2026 Draft.

The last person to accomplish that feat for those who remember, was the famous Oscar Robertson, who many known as the greatest basketball player to come through the University of Cincinnati.

Miller was projected as a late round draft pick following the conclusion of the 2025-2026 season, where many viewed him as a late round draft pick or a potential undrafted free agent. However, that was until Miller took advantage of his opportunity after an elite showing at the NCAA Combine last month in Chicago, which had many teams raving about his potential.

The seven-foot forward was quickly viewed as a high riser amongst many general managers in the recent weeks as Miller exclusive told TFON, that he spoke with just about every NBA team in recent weeks which included 12 private workouts.

Now when you turn on the tape of Miller, what stands out is the potential to play anywhere from the 1-4 position. He has a great feel for the game and has the ability to pick up and defend any position a team will need. Which was something he showcased quite a bit during his lone season in Clifton. He has great feel around the rim and can really make an impact as a stretch four player in the NBA. Most importantly, he has such a high basketball IQ, that he immediately makes players around him better when he is able to be on the court. Which played a huge role in Cincinnati's success towards the end of the season.

Worth noting that Miller was the first Bearcat in almost 30 years to record three games with 17 plus rebounds dating all the way back to the 1996-1997 season.

"Excited to learn what this next chapter will be for Baba." said Cincinnati General Manager Corey Evans via X. "A fortunate NBA Franchise will soon learn just how special Cincinnati knows Miller to be." Miller now becomes the first Bearcat drafted to the NBA since Jacob Evans back in 2018, as Evans was selected 28th overall to the Golden State Warriors.

Congrats to Baba and his family as he prepares for the next step of his playing career in the NBA.