Derrian Ford, Temple’s leading scorer, declares for 2026 NBA draft
After four years at three different schools, Ford put together his best collegiate season this past year with Temple. The 6-foot-3 combo guard is considered an under-the-radar prospect.
Temple’s leading scorer, Derrian Ford, has declared for the NBA draft, he announced Tuesday night.
Ford, who averaged 18.1 points this past season, put together the best numbers of his collegiate career in his one season at Temple. He surpassed 1,000 career points, had 14 games with 20 points or more, and finished fourth in the American in most points per game.
“My dream has always been to put myself in a position to help provide for and take care of my family to the best of my ability,” Ford wrote in a statement. “Basketball is something l’ve dedicated so much time, effort, and passion to, and I know my journey is far from over.”
While it may come as no surprise that the 6-foot-3 combo guard declared for the draft, as he’s out of college eligibility, Ford is considered an under-the-radar prospect who can serve as a complimentary piece to a team.
The Magnolia, Ark., native was considered a four-star recruit out of high school. He started his college career at Arkansas under coach Eric Musselman, now at Southern California. His playing time was sparse with the Razorbacks, averaging 3.8 minutes in 21 games.
He then transferred to Arkansas State, where he spent two seasons under newly hired Providence coach Bryan Hodgson. He averaged 10.4 points as a sophomore and 8 points as a junior. He played alongside reigning American Player and Defensive Player of the Year, Izaiyah Nelson, who spent this past season at South Florida with Hodgson.
» READ MORE: Temple’s Derrian Ford is named third-team all-conference
Ford will have a chance to impress NBA scouts at the draft combine on May 10 to 17.
While Ford may go undrafted on June 25-26, he could follow other Temple players to the G League. Former Owls forward Steve Settle III is averaging 7.1 points for the Sioux Falls Skyforce, an affiliate with the Miami Heat. Guard Jamal Mashburn Jr. is averaging 6.3 points for the Long Island Nets, an affiliate with the Brooklyn Nets.
Temple has not had a player selected in the draft since Lavoy Allen was picked in the second round in 2011 by the 76ers.