Auburn Makes History With First-Ever College 'Draft-and-Stash' NBA Pick

The Auburn Tigers have made history. 

During the 2026 NBA Draft, which concluded earlier this week, the Los Angeles Clippers made the first 'draft and stash' pick involving a college team. The Clippers drafted Narcisse Ngoy with the 57th overall pick in the draft during the second round on Wednesday night.

Ngoy, an international product from France, has committed to play with the Auburn Tigers beginning this season. In fact, he is scheduled to arrive on campus within the week. 

One of the biggest changes that worked in Ngoy's favor came in April, when the NCAA approved a rule allowing draft-eligible players to retain their college eligibility as long as they did not officially opt into the NBA Draft. Because of his age, Ngoy was among the international prospects impacted by the change.

Despite being able to play in the NBA immediately, Ngoy will still honor his commitment to The Plains while the Clippers hold his rights for after the season. 

"I am thankful for the LA Clippers' confidence in me," Ngoy said on Instagram. "I fully intend to honor my commitment to Auburn University. And I am looking forward to wearing the Auburn Tigers jersey." 

On the court, the 7-footer put together a standout campaign in France's Elite 2 League. He averaged 10.8 points per game while leading the league with 11.5 rebounds, 2.5 blocks, and a 21.2 efficiency rating. He also finished the season shooting 70 percent from the field.

This only helps prove the type of offseason head coach Steven Pearl and the rest of the Auburn coaching staff are trying to rebuild this roster. Adding professional international talent who are already considered good enough to be selected by an NBA franchise is definitely the right direction to get the Tigers back into the NCAA tournament. 

Now, the focus shifts to what Ngoy can become at Auburn. The 7-footer will have the opportunity to develop against SEC competition before making the jump to the NBA, giving both him and the Clippers a unique opportunity under the NCAA's new rules. If he can translate his production from France to one of the nation's toughest conferences, Ngoy could leave The Plains as one of the biggest success stories of this new era in college basketball.