Rocco Zikarsky is way ahead of his age. While developing in the NBA Global Academy, Zikarsky impressed college coaches with his advanced skills and size. At the FIBA U17 World Cup, the young Aussie proved he was one of the best in his class, having the most blocks in the event and finishing top five in points. He also put on a show in the Australian U18 and U20 state championships.
As a result, through the NBL Next Stars Program, Rocco was able to sign a 2-year contract with the Brisbane Bullets. This team is very fitting for the center since he can reunite with former coaches, play for his hometown, and play alongside Aron Baynes – a player he had always looked up to. At just 17 years old, he has already become a notable player in the league and has been a force to be reckoned with.
Australia is responsible for developing numerous players currently in the NBA such as Josh Giddey, Josh Green, and Dante Exum. Finding a big-man prospect who has the potential to make it to the NBA is uncommon, though. However, Australians have had the honor of watching Rocco hone his craft and prepare for an NBA career.
In the NBL, Zikarsky led in blocks and emerged as one of the most efficient players in the league, resulting in interest sparking from all over the world. Powerhouse colleges such as Duke, Gonzaga, Michigan, and USC recruited the young center. Rocco admitted to ESPN that “I was overwhelmed, but very appreciative of all the college coaches that reached out to me.” Despite his gratefulness for the mass recruitment, he saw it best fit to stay at home where he belongs.
It’s not the first time a 2025 prospect has chosen to stay in his home country, with Nolan Troare deciding to stay in France ahead of next year’s draft. Remaining with the Brisbane Bullets through the Next Stars Program allows Rocco Zikarsky to develop within familiar settings as he sets his sights on making it to the NBA. While in this early phase of his basketball journey, the young center can continue his dominance in the NBL and solidify himself as one of the prospects to watch for in the draft.
To further his game en route to the draft, Rocco Zikarksy should broaden his offensive game. He needs to find ways to score outside the paint to versatile his scoring capabilities. Bolstering his three-point shooting and mid-range will help do just that and make him more of a threat in the offensive end. As for his defense, he should try to become more of a defensive presence by using his massive size. By taking advantage of his frame to take up more space when defending, he can prevent more shots from going in.
However, Zikarsky also possesses plenty of strong suits that will help him become a better player over time. As for one, he is a great rim protector blocking shots and capitalizing on his height to grasp rebounds. He is also a good screen setter and uses the pick and roll to savagely finish lobs. He is a threat in the post through his signature moves and can make useful passes while in the paint. When scoring, the young center finishes with authority at times or uses his soft left hand for the basket. The kid is special and with further development can become a suitable center for any NBA team.
Australia has been a great fit for the rising Aussie star, becoming a foundation for him to flourish and be exposed to various talents. His eagerness to learn from those wiser than him and his drive to be the best will ultimately help him boost his potential. With his defying blocks and powerful dunks, he has already solidified his spot as the top young Australian basketball player. Staying with Brisbane is a wise choice by Rocco as well as a great resource to expand his skills. However, despite staying within familiar boundaries, he is coming for the NBA.
