Next Stars Wrap: Lopez has the world’s attention

NBL25's class of Next Stars is looming as one of the top groups of emerging hoops talent anywhere in the world. Stay informed as to how each of the competition's brightest stars played on the weekend with NBL Media's Next Stars Wrap.

Thanks to his amazing form in recent games, including his career-best 20 points against the Phoenix, Karim Lopez earned the praise from some of the most well-respected prospect evaluators in the world. In fact, ESPN’s Jonathan Givony and Yahoo Sports’ Kevin O’Connor both shared their excitement for his skills and development ahead of the 2026 NBA Draft. In Round 18, Lopez’s Breakers were officially eliminated from post-season contention, with two losses to Brisbane and Adelaide. The Mexican Next Star still impressed with his coast-to-coasts and finishes around the basket. 

South East Melbourne earned yet another home win, solidifying their position in the Finals run. With import forward Joe Wieskamp performing at his best in the last few rounds, Malique Lewis was moved to the second unit against Tasmania, and ended with 3 points in 13 minutes of play. 

The Sydney Kings, while losing at home against the surging Adelaide 36ers, have officially clinched their Finals spot. Last Friday, Alex Toohey had 3 points in 12 minutes off the bench. The Next Star, who is rising across the board in Draft projections, was featured in the latest NBL documentary episode, centred around his development in Sydney. 

Izan Almansa and the Perth Wildcats suffered a painful double-overtime loss at home in Round 18, failing to beat the Cairns Taipans, who were playing without their lead guard Taran Armstrong. The Spanish centre started for the Wildcats, and secured 4 points and 5 rebounds in 16 minutes (+9 while on the court).

The Brisbane Bullets have announced that Rocco Zikarsky has been experiencing a knee complaint and after medical evaluation it has been determined he will miss the next few weeks to focus on recovery.