Brooklyn Nets general manager Sean Marks is reportedly on the job Australia for the NBL Blitza pre-season tournament showcasing some of Australia’s best talent. Many prospects drafted into the NBL are part of the Next Stars program, giving them exposure to scouts from a young age. Who are the prospects to watch?
Zikarsky is a 6’3″ center who just finished his first season as a professional. At 18, he has already made a big impression on scouts, with an incredible running ability to the basket while providing elite defense in the paint.
Due to his size, skill, and potential, Zikarsky is currently the No. 20 overall pick in ESPN’s 2025 NBA Mock Draft. He’s not a shooter but has the quickness to weave through defenders and a solid post-game.
Almansa played for the G League Ignite, a team in the now-defunct NBA G League. The program was supposed to give players coming out of high school enough exposure to warrant a draft bid, and while Almansa wasn’t the team’s best player, he showed plenty of promise last season.
At 2.08m, Almansa plays like a 2.10m player. He rarely leaves the paint on either side of the ball, but he is an elite blocker and an aggressive finisher. He can sometimes display a soft touch at the rim, using Isaiah Hartenstein’s patented push floater. The 19-year-old will get more opportunities with the Perth Wildcats in the NBL.
Toohey, 19, is a former Gonzaga player who was ranked 57th overall in ESPN’s mock draft. At 6-foot-10, he’s not the fastest or strongest, but he’s got a ton of talent. He can be crafty driving to the basket, but he’s also fundamentally sound when he needs to be.
Toohey also has excellent shooting mechanics, making him a threat when he gets left open. Between him, Zikarsky, and Almansa, Toohey may be the biggest draft pick, but he may also have the most potential.
Want to join the discussion? Like Nets on SI on Facebook and Follow us on Twitter to stay up to date with all the latest Nets news. You can also meet the team behind the cover.
