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2026 NBA Draft: Nate Ament Scouting Report

Updated: 5 days ago

Nate Ament dribbles the ball for Tennessee as they face Duke in a college basketball game.

Throughout the 2025-26 season, Babcock Hoops will provide comprehensive scouting reports on top 2026 NBA Draft prospects, analyzing their strengths, weaknesses, and potential at the next level. Our reports offer an in-depth look at each player's development and draft outlook.


Nate Ament

Position: Forward

College: Tennessee

Class: Freshman

Height/Weight: 6'9", 190 lbs

Birthdate: December 10, 2006

High School: Highland School (VA)


Player Overview


Nate Ament is a long, skilled forward whose blend of size, mobility, and perimeter ability makes him one of the more intriguing long-term prospects in the 2026 class. At 6’9”, he runs the floor well, handles smoothly for his size, and projects as a legitimate floor-spacing forward. Defensively, his length and instincts give him the versatility to guard multiple spots and make plays as a help-side rim protector. He plays with poise and rarely forces the action, but still has significant room to grow physically and polish his overall game.


“Ament’s combination of length, skill, and fluidity is really intriguing. His raw talent is through the roof. He needs to get stronger and further establish his identity as a player, but his future is unquestionably bright.” — Matt Babcock, NBA Draft Analyst

Strengths


  • Length & Mobility: 6’9” frame with coordination, fluidity, and speed in the open floor.

  • Scoring Versatility: Face-up threat who can attack off the dribble, finish with either hand, and stretch the floor.

  • Shooting Potential: High release, smooth mechanics, and proven three-point production.

  • Playmaking from Size: Sees over defenses and can deliver accurate cross-court passes.

  • Defensive Tools: Switchable defender with good foot speed, instincts, and shot-blocking timing.

  • Rebounding: Active on the glass with potential to improve as he adds strength.

  • Composure: Calm demeanor and plays with poise, rarely rushed.


Concerns


  • Strength & Physicality: Needs to add muscle; can get bumped off his path and struggles finishing through contact.

  • Offensive Efficiency: Must improve shot selection and consistency as a scorer.

  • Shot Speed: Smooth mechanics, but could benefit from a quicker release.

  • Creation & Passing: Solid foundation, but can tighten his handle and cut down on turnovers.


Bottom Line


Nate Ament is a long-term prospect with intriguing two-way upside. His size, fluidity, and perimeter skillset give him the framework of a big wing and modern forward, but his development will hinge on embracing physicality, improving efficiency, and solidifying his offensive identity. While still raw, his combination of tools and flashes suggests a player who could grow into an extremely valuable two-way piece if given time and development.

Preciser
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