The NBL’s Next Stars program, launched in 2018, was designed to give young players from around the world a professional pathway to bypass college and fast-track their journey to the NBA.

Since its inception 26 players have come through the system, with 13 drafted to the NBA, two more earning contracts via two-way or 10-day deals and four current prospects attracting strong NBA interest.

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The program has already produced some headline names, including LaMelo Ball (Illawarra Hawks), who was taken with the third pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, Josh Giddey (pick No.6 in 2021) and most recently Alex Sarr, selected second overall by the Washington Wizards in 2024.

It’s a strong track record, so to keep an eye on the next wave of talent we’re launching the Next Star Power Rankings. In each edition, we’ll break down performances, analyse their growth and track whether their draft stock is rising or falling with a close eye on ESPN’s 2026 Mock Draft projections. Let’s get into the first rankings:

1. Karim Lopez | 18 | New Zealand Breakers | F |

ESPN Rank: 7

Karim Lopez is one of the brightest young talents the NBL has seen. His mix of composure, athleticism, and length make him a must-watch in what will likely be his final season before the NBA Draft.

In his rookie campaign, Lopez averaged 9.6 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.2 assists while shooting 45% from the field. He entered NBL26 under a minor back injury cloud, but still managed both Round 1 games on a minutes restriction, posting 10 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game on an efficient 61% shooting.

At just 18 years old, Lopez already looks NBA-ready, and with a full season to showcase his potential, expect his draft stock to rise rapidly.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – SEPTEMBER 21: Karim Lopez of the Breakers in action during the round one NBL match between Melbourne United and New Zealand Breakers at John Cain Arena on September 21, 2025 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Graham Denholm/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

2. Dash Daniels | 17 | Melbourne United | G | ESPN Rank: 10

The younger brother of NBA guard Dyson Daniels, Dash has arrived with plenty of hype and early signs show he’s ready to live up to it. With a more refined offensive game than his brother at the same stage, Dash looked comfortable against seasoned NBL competition in just his second game, finishing with 14 points, 5 rebounds, 1 assist, and 2 steals on 60% shooting against the Breakers.

Under the guidance of Dean Vickerman and in a deep Melbourne United roster, Daniels has the tools and environment to develop quickly. There’s every chance he climbs above Lopez in these rankings and in draft projections, before season’s end.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – SEPTEMBER 21: Dash Daniels of United handles the ball during the round one NBL match between Melbourne United and New Zealand Breakers at John Cain Arena, on September 21, 2025, in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Kelly Defina/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

3. Malique Lewis | 20 | SEM Phoenix | F | ESPN Rank: Unranked

Returning for another NBL season after withdrawing from the NBA Draft, Malique Lewis is determined to prove himself as a legitimate prospect. Standing out with NBA size, athleticism, and defensive versatility, he remains a crucial piece of Josh King’s Phoenix lineup.

Last season he averaged 6.8 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1 assist on 41% shooting, though his 31% three-point shooting left room for improvement. His defensive mobility, however – the ability to guard bigs inside and switch onto perimeter players, makes him a valuable two-way piece.

Lewis’ NBL26 debut summed him up: just 2 points on 1-for-8 shooting, but 8 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals, and 2 blocks. The raw numbers don’t tell the whole story, his defensive impact was undeniable. If his scoring efficiency catches up, he could become a reliable NBA role player in the mould of Alex Toohey or Lachlan Olbrich.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – SEPTEMBER 20: Malique Lewis of the Phoenix drives to the basket during the round one NBL match between South East Melbourne Phoenix and Cairns Taipans at John Cain Arena, on September 20, 2025, in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

4. Noa Kouakou-Heugue | 18 | Perth Wildcats | F | ESPN Rank: Unranked

The only Next Star yet to debut in the regular season, Kouakou-Heugue is an exciting prospect for the Perth Wildcats. In preseason action he showed flashes, scoring 6 points with 2 rebounds, and his athletic style has drawn early comparisons to former Wildcats Next Stars Alex Sarr and Izan Almansa.

Minutes may be hard to come by behind Jo Lual-Acuil Jr., Kristian Doolittle, and David Okwera, but Kouakou-Heugue has the physical tools to make an impact when called upon. His speed in the pick-and-roll, ability to finish above the rim, and shot-blocking instincts will all intrigue NBA scouts.

If he earns John Rillie’s trust and finds a rhythm at NBL level, Kouakou-Heugue could quickly climb both these rankings and draft boards.

That’s the top four for now – but the season is young, and with every game, draft stocks can rise or fall.

PERTH, AUSTRALIA – SEPTEMBER 20: Noa Kouakou-Heugue of the Wildcats reaches for the ball as he warns up during the round one NBL match between Perth Wildcats and Tasmania Jackjumpers at RAC Arena, on September 20, 2025, in Perth, Australia. (Photo by James Worsfold/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images