Texas Tech Standout Christian Anderson is Heating Up Draft Boards

The 2026 NBA draft is on the way, and point guard Christian Anderson of Texas Tech is heating up just in time to hear his name called.

While Anderson has largely been expected to go in round one of the event, he’s climbing a bit higher in the latest mocks.

In a mock out on Saturday, May 23, Zach Buckley of Bleacher Report names his projections for the upcoming draft. He has the Texas Tech product going to the Memphis Grizzlies at No. 16.

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“The Grizzlies already torso-deep in rebuilding waters with only an overdue Ja Morant trade left on the tear-down to-do list,” he notes. “Even if Memphis has to extend this partnership a bit due to a lack of market interest, it’s clear this franchise must take a new direction at lead guard. Anderson might be the most interesting wager to make.”

He adds: “He might be the best shooter in this draft, and he’s on a short list of its top table-setters.”

My Analysis: Christian Anderson is a Name to Watch

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Anderson, yes, might be the best pure shooter in this entire draft class, and he’s also one of the top playmakers available. He has a great feel for running an offense, setting up teammates and making smart decisions with the ball in his hands. Even when defenses pressure him, he stays calm and keeps the offense moving.

Yes, there are some concerns about his size and athleticism, especially at the NBA level, but Memphis could be one of the best possible landing spots for him. If the Grizzlies roll out a frontcourt featuring Cameron Boozer, Zach Edey and Cedric Coward, they would have plenty of size, length and physicality around him to help cover up any weaknesses.

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This story was originally published May 25, 2026 at 11:46 AM.