PHOENIX – The Phoenix Suns announced today that the team has acquired the draft rights to University of Arizona forward and Gilbert native Koa Peat,the 30th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, in a four-team trade with the Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks and Los Angeles Lakers. As part of the deal, the Suns sent the 47th overall pick and two future second-round picks to the Knicks.
“Koa is a winner. He plays with a unique combination of skill and physicality, and possesses the character and work ethic that align with our team culture,” said Suns general manager Brian Gregory. “The people of Arizona know firsthand the tremendous heart and fierce competitiveness he brings to the floor. We’re excited that he will be part of the Phoenix Suns, his hometown team, and look forward to building on his connection to our community.”
Peat (6’-8”, 245 pounds) averaged 14.1 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.6 assists during his lone season at Arizona, helping the team to a program-record 36 wins. He earned 2026 NCAA West Regional Most Outstanding Player honors to lead the Wildcats to their first Final Four appearance since 2001. The 19-year-old ranked fourth in the Big 12 by shooting 52.8% from the field and began his college career by scoring 30 points against Florida on Nov. 3, just the second Big 12 freshman ever to score 30 or more points in his career debut.
The only player to win the Arizona Gatorade Player of the Year award three times in boys basketball, Peat won four consecutive state championships while at Perry High School in Gilbert. The 2023 USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year, he also won four gold medals in international competition representing the United States on junior national teams from 2022-25.
