NBL Next Stars: Projected draft pick Rocco Zikarsky

• Rocco Zikarsky signs with Brisbane Bullets for NBL25 season
• 18-year-old 7-foot-3 centre projected as 2025 NBA first-round pick
• Zikarsky aims for breakout year after historic NBL Next Star debut

Eighteen-year-old Australian centre Rocco Zikarsky has re-signed with the Brisbane Bullets for the upcoming NBL25 season, marking his second year as an NBL Next Star.

Standing at an impressive 7-foot-3 (220 cm), Rocco Zikarsky is poised to make a significant impact in the NBL25 season. The young giant, who tips the scales at 103 kg, has already etched his name in league history as the youngest Next Star when he signed with the Brisbane Bullets at just 16 years old. Now, with a year of professional experience under his belt, Zikarsky is primed for what many expect to be a breakout campaign.

Brisbane Bullets coach Justin Schueller expressed his excitement about Zikarsky's development, stating, "Rocco's growth over the past year has been phenomenal. His work ethic and natural talents set him apart, and we're thrilled to have him back for another season."

Zikarsky's potential extends beyond the NBL, with projections placing him as a potential first-round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. This forecast comes on the heels of his impressive performances on the international stage, including a standout showing at the 2022 FIBA U17 World Cup and earning MVP honours at the 2024 Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Germany.

The NBL Next Star Program: Nurturing Future NBA Talent

The NBL Next Star program has become a crucial pathway for young talent aiming for the NBA. Liam Santamaria, General Manager of Next Stars Recruitment, highlighted the program's success: "Players like Rocco exemplify what the Next Star program is all about. We're providing a platform for elite young talent to develop against professional competition, preparing them for the next level."

Former NBL Commissioner Jeremy Loeliger added, "The Next Star program continues to attract world-class talent. Rocco's decision to return for another season with Brisbane underscores the program's value in player development."

As the NBL25 season approaches, all eyes will be on Zikarsky and his fellow Next Stars, including AJ Johnson (Illawarra Hawks), Alex Toohey (Sydney Kings), and Alexandre Sarr (Perth Wildcats). These young athletes represent the future of Australian basketball and serve as a testament to the NBL's growing reputation as a breeding ground for NBA-calibre talent.

With the stage set for an exciting season, basketball fans across Australia and beyond will be eagerly watching as Rocco Zikarsky takes his next steps towards basketball stardom, carrying the hopes of the Brisbane Bullets and the entire nation with him.