2025-26 Fantasy Basketball Mock Draft: Building around Shai Gilgeous-A
While head-to-head leagues may grant fantasy managers some grace if their teams start slowly, that isn’t necessarily the case in roto leagues. Availability, which is critical in any fantasy league regardless of format, is paramount; a star player sitting for an extended period can be crushing to a manager’s chances of winning their league.
I recently participated in a 12-team, 9-cat roto mock snake draft, holding the second pick, and there was no third-round reversal. After kicking things off with reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, I looked to craft a roster capable of offering value in all statistical categories. It should be noted that this draft was held before it was learned that Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro would undergo foot/ankle surgery that will sideline him indefinitely.
NBA: Playoffs-Milwaukee Bucks at Indiana Pacers
How to Play Fantasy Basketball 2025-26: Draft tips and beginner’s guide
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With fantasy basketball drafts beginning this month, here’s everything first-time players need to know about how to play and win their league.
Round 1
|
Pick |
Position |
Player |
Team |
|
1 |
C |
Nikola Jokić |
Denver Nuggets |
|
2 |
PG |
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander |
Oklahoma City Thunder |
|
3 |
PF/C |
Giannis Antetokounmpo |
Milwaukee Bucks |
|
4 |
C |
Victor Wembanyama |
San Antonio Spurs |
|
5 |
PG/SG |
Luka Dončić |
Los Angeles Lakers |
|
6 |
PG/SG |
Anthony Edwards |
Minnesota Timberwolves |
|
7 |
PG/SG |
Cade Cunningham |
Detroit Pistons |
|
8 |
PF/C |
Anthony Davis |
Dallas Mavericks |
|
9 |
C |
Domantas Sabonis |
Sacramento Kings |
|
10 |
PF/C |
Karl-Anthony Towns |
New York Knicks |
|
11 |
PG |
Trae Young |
Atlanta Hawks |
|
12 |
PG/SG |
Devin Booker |
Phoenix Suns |
One can’t be blamed for considering Victor Wembanyama for the second overall pick. However, Wembanyama returning from a blood clot issue influenced my decision, as did Gilgeous-Alexander playing at least 75 games each of the last two seasons. Giannis Antetokounmpo going third, ahead of Wemby, was a mild surprise. However, given the proven production Milwaukee lost this offseason, it’s easy to envision a scenario in which…
