Miami Hurricanes star forward projected in 2nd round of 2026 NBA Draft

In a recent two-round 2026 NBA mock draft from Bleacher Report, Miami's Malik Reneau is slotted as the No. 43 overall pick, a second-round projection that would send the Hurricanes' star forward to the Portland Trail Blazers. That kind of placement at this point in the college basketball is far from a guarantee, but it is nice recognition for a player who came home to Coral Gables with something to prove and has quickly become the engine of Miami's turnaround.

Malik Reneau projected No. 43 in 2026 NBA Draft

Through non-conference play, Reneau is averaging 20.4 points, 6.7 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game, while shooting 59.2% from the field. Reneau's best game came against Delaware State when he went 10-for-10 from the field for 24 points in just 19 minutes. He also added 10 rebounds, three assists and two blocks.

"Malik Reneau is having a breakout year, showing improved shooting and a more modernized offensive game. He's still at his best using his strength and scoring instincts off cuts, rolls and post-ups. But the ability to make threes and face up defenders has turned him into a 20.2-point-per-game scorer and NBA prospect."

Jonathan Wasserman

Malik Reneau represents growth in Jai Lucas' first season

Reneau arrived as a headline portal addition after three years at Indiana, bringing a proven track record. A Miami native, Reneau chose the Hurricanes and returned to South Florida after leading Indiana in scoring the previous season. When Miami announced his signing in April, Lucas leaned hard into the homecoming angle that brought Reneau back to Coral Gables.

Since his arrival, Lucas has put a major point of emphasis on keeping homegrown talent and making sure that Miami is in contention for all of the high-level local recruits. Reneau's success will be a great selling point in the years to come.