Is Rupert New Zealand's Next Big Star?

Ousmane Dieng and Huge Besson have already graduated with flying colours from the NBL’s Next Stars program via the New Zealand Breakers, but could new signing Rayan Rupert be the standout of the three?

Currently projected as a first-round pick in ESPN’s 2023 NBA Mock Draft, Rupert has been highly touted by Breakers coach Mody Maor.

“Rayan is different than the Next Stars that have come before him,” Maor said from the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas.

“There has never been a defender like Rayan in the Next Stars program.”

The 18-year old guard joins New Zealand before the 2022/2023 NBL Season, boasting an imposing presence at 204 centimetres.

“He is a defence-first guy in just who he is. He has incredible wing span, 7’3, great feet, real intensity, always competing,” Maor said.

“… Rayan’s the real deal and we’re really happy to have him with us.”

ESPN Senior NBA Insider Adrian Wojnarowski described Rupert as having “defensive versatility, an ability to get into passing lanes, and intensity on defence”.

The Breakers are also excited by the prospects of import centre Dererk Pardon.

“(He's) a very impactful five man. We were looking for somebody in this position to set the tone for us from an energy and intensity standpoint, and this is what this guy brings,” Maor added.

“Yanni (Wetzell) proved last year that if you pair a good pick-and-roll finisher with Will McDowell-White, good things happen, and Dererk is one of the best.

“He has great feet, great hands, wing span, can finish in a million different ways … I think that combination is going to be a dangerous one.

“He might be able to give us stuff we didn’t have last year … presence on the boards, shot-blocker, those kinds of things.”

The Breakers are looking to fill two roster spots ahead of the upcoming NBL season, which will see a long-awaited return to home games in New Zealand.

“We are looking for an import guard, a lead guard, guard-forward and we’re looking for a starting power forward,” Maor said.

“I don’t’ think they (the players) are on the hardwood here, but this (Summer League) is the place to be in order to make these things happen.

“The NBL is so respected in these hall ways, and the way people treat you … an agent (for example), the opportunity for their players to come play in the NBL has been a magnifying force for us, and we are looking forward to signing some great players.”