AZ Compass Prep will be without one of its brightest stars this season. Miikka Muurinen, the 6-foot-11 Finnish forward, will not return to the program and is currently exploring professional options in Europe and Australia to begin his career, per Jonathan Givony of DraftExpress.

Muurinen, nicknamed “Slim Jesus”, has quickly become one of the most talked-about prospects in international basketball. Born in 2007, he moved to the United States a few years ago to continue his development, first with Sunrise Christian Academy before joining AZ Compass Prep. A five-star recruit in the class of 2026, Muurinen is already projected as a first-round pick in the 2027 NBA Draft, with the potential to rise into NBA Lottery pick status.

Muurinen’s profile skyrocketed after his performance in the recent EuroBasket tournament, where he helped lead the Finnish national team to its first-ever semifinal appearance. Despite being one of the youngest players on the roster, he made his mark with his athleticism, highlight-reel dunks, and overall energy. He averaged 6.6 points and 1.9 rebounds per game, showcasing flashes of future NBA potential.

With multiple pro options on the table, Muurinen faces a pivotal decision: continue developing in high school basketball or transition to the professional stage. Either way, he remains one of the most exciting young prospects in the world. Scouts view him as a modern forward with elite length, mobility, and highlight-making ability.

Expect NBA scouts, college recruiters, and international clubs to follow his every move closely. For fans of both high school basketball recruiting and international prospects, Miikka Muurinen’s next chapter will be one of the most intriguing stories to watch over the next two years.