The Aussie influence in Roman's Next Star call

Wednesday, June 5, 2024

Roman Siulepa has credited the experiences of Alex Toohey and Rocco Zikarsky in attracting him to the Next Stars.

Highly touted local talent Roman Siulepa will take his first steps in professional basketball in the NBL after signing with the Tasmania JackJumpers on a Next Stars contract.

Siulepa has been on global basketball radars for his immense athleticism despite his young age and has been a dominant force for the SW Metro Pirates in NBL1 North this season, alongside former Brisbane Bullet Lamar Patterson.

He’s the latest elite Australian talent to elect to walk the Next Stars pathway and says the experiences of fellow NBL25 Next Stars Alex Toohey and Rocco Zikarsky was crucial in his decision to take his talents to the NBL.

“Seeing my mates Alex Toohey and Rocco Zikarsky go through the Next Stars program and how they developed was key,” Siulepa told ESPN.

“I’m homegrown and wanted to stay here. Once I heard about the opportunity to be part of such an exciting program I jumped at it.

“I set my eyes on Tassie and am excited about it.”

For the full story head to >> Top Aussie prospect Roman Siulepa to sign with NBL’s JackJumpers.

Cover image: ShootnHoops