Alex Karaban is taking another major step toward the NBA after reports surfaced that the Boston Celtics plan to work out the former UConn Huskies standout ahead of the 2026 NBA Draft.
According to multiple reports, Karaban’s pre-draft workout with Boston is expected to take place next week as the Celtics continue evaluating options for the No. 27 and No. 40 picks in the draft.
Karaban enters the draft process following one of the most decorated careers in recent UConn history. The Southborough, Massachusetts native spent all four collegiate seasons with the Huskies and helped lead the program to two national championships in 2023 and 2024. UConn also reached the national championship game again this past season before falling to Michigan Wolverines men's basketball.
Big time college career
The 6-foot-8 forward finished his college career averaging 12.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.0 assists across 151 games. He shot 46.8 percent from the field, 37.4 percent from three-point range, and 84.4 percent from the free-throw line during his time at UConn.
Karaban also leaves the program holding several major school records, including games played, starts, minutes played, and three-pointers made. His 1,880 career points rank sixth in program history.
During the 2025-26 season, Karaban averaged 13.2 points and 5.3 rebounds while starting all 40 games for the Huskies. He earned All-Big East First Team honors and remained one of the most experienced players in college basketball.
The next level
The Celtics’ reported interest is not surprising given Karaban’s experience, shooting ability, and familiarity with winning programs. Boston has frequently valued versatile forwards capable of spacing the floor and playing within structured systems.
At the NBA Combine, Karaban also drew attention for his perimeter shooting, which is widely viewed as one of the strongest parts of his draft profile.
There are still questions evaluators continue discussing ahead of the draft, particularly regarding his lateral quickness and defensive versatility against NBA athletes. However, his size, experience, and offensive skill set continue to make him an intriguing option for playoff-caliber teams looking for rotational depth.
With the draft approaching, Karaban appears firmly in the mix to hear his name called after building one of the most accomplished careers in modern UConn basketball history.
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