Overview
- The Dallas Mavericks selected Virginia Tech forward Tobi Lawal with the 48th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.
- Lawal is a four‑year college player who averaged about 12.3 points and 8.5 rebounds per game last season for Virginia Tech.
- He posted exceptional testing at the 2026 NBA Combine, recording a 40‑inch standing vertical and a 45.5‑inch max vertical that drew strong praise from NBA evaluators.
- Mavericks general manager Mike Schmitz lauded Lawal’s energy, motor and toughness while the team noted his pick is a developmental move and does not guarantee a roster spot.
- The selection follows a busy draft for Dallas that included No. 9 pick Morez Johnson Jr. and acquiring Sergio De Larrea and signals the new coaching and front‑office emphasis on long‑term player development.