promise in his limited playing time. The 18-year-old guard made his NBL debut in the 36ers’ opening game against the Cairns Taipans, scoring 6 points in just 9 minutes of play. Flowers showcased his athleticism and ability to drive to the basket, and although he still has a lot to learn, his potential is evident. With more opportunities, Flowers could become a key contributor for the 36ers this season.
Jaden Hardy – New Zealand Breakers
Hardy, a highly-rated guard from the United States, made his NBL debut for the New Zealand Breakers in their opening game against the Illawarra Hawks. Despite a slow start, Hardy displayed his scoring ability and showed why he is considered one of the top prospects in his class. He finished the game with 10 points, including a couple of impressive three-pointers. Hardy’s seamless transition to the NBL is a testament to his talent and potential as a future NBA player.
Simi Shittu – Sydney Kings
Shittu, a 6’9″ forward from Canada, made an immediate impact in his NBL debut for the Sydney Kings. In their game against the Perth Wildcats, Shittu recorded a double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds. He showed his versatility and athleticism, dominating the paint and getting to the free-throw line. Shittu’s strong performance helped the Kings secure a win, and he is expected to be a key contributor for the team throughout the season.
Isaiah Todd – Melbourne United
Todd, an athletic forward from the United States, made his NBL debut for Melbourne United in their game against the Brisbane Bullets. Despite a slow start, Todd showed flashes of his potential, finishing the game with 8 points and 6 rebounds. He displayed his athleticism with a couple of highlight-reel dunks and showed promise as a versatile defender. Todd’s development in the NBL could further enhance his chances of being selected in the NBA Draft.
These young players joining the NBL through the Next Stars program not only bring excitement and talent to the league, but they also provide valuable exposure for the NBL on the global stage. The program, which started in 2018, aims to give the best young talents in the world an opportunity to play against top-level competition and gain valuable experience before entering the NBA Draft. The success of players like LaMelo Ball and RJ Hampton, who went on to be high draft picks after playing in the NBL, has further increased the program’s reputation and attracted even more talented prospects.
The NBL’s Next Stars program has created a pathway for young players to develop and showcase their skills while competing against some of the best talent in the world. The program has proven to be beneficial not only for the players but also for the NBL itself. It has elevated the league’s profile and attracted attention from scouts and agents all over the world. The influx of high-quality prospects has also raised the overall competitiveness and level of play in the NBL, making it an even more attractive destination for young players looking to take the next step in their careers.
In addition to the Next Stars, the NBL’s 2023/24 season also saw the return of some familiar faces. NBA players who have previously played in the NBL during the NBA offseason have come back to compete in the league, further adding to the excitement surrounding the season. Players like Joe Ingles, Kelly Olynyk, and Dante Exum brought their NBA experience and skills to their respective teams, making the competition even more thrilling.
With the combination of talented Next Stars, returning NBA players, and established NBL stars, the 2023/24 season of the NBL promises to be one of the most exciting and competitive yet. The league’s global reputation continues to grow, and it is becoming a destination of choice for young players who want to develop their skills and increase their chances of being drafted into the NBA. The NBL is proving to be the perfect platform for these players to showcase their abilities and pursue their dreams of playing in the world’s top basketball league.
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