Kouakou-Heugue and NBL agree to release

French prospect Noa Kouakou-Heugue and the Hungry Jack’s NBL have reached agreement on a mutual release.

Following extensive discussions, all parties have agreed it is in Kouakou-Heugue’s best interests to explore professional opportunities in Europe for this upcoming season and, with agreement on terms now being reached, he has been released from his Next Stars contract.

The 18-year-old appeared in 17 games across Perth’s 2025-26 campaign, recording season-highs of 8 points and 4 rebounds in a win over Cairns in Round 6.

Next Stars General Manager, Liam Santamaria, has thanked Kouakou-Heugue for his efforts across the Hungry Jack’s NBL26 season and wished him well for his future endeavours.

“We wish Noa all the best as he embarks on the next chapter of his basketball journey and look forward to supporting him throughout his career moving forward,” Santamaria said.

“In addition to being a fine young man, Noa is a talented young player with great upside. We trust the development he experienced whilst with the Wildcats last season will hold him in good stead for the future.

“We thank Noa for being part of the Next Stars program and wish him great success moving forward.”