Next Gen Award Watch: January

It’s time for your monthly preview of the players in the mix for the Next Generation Award, presented by Champion.

This has become one of the more exciting awards to keep track of throughout the season, due to the number of players eligible to win it. 

A reminder that any player, as long as they are under 25-years-old by April 30 of the conclusion of the season, will be eligible.

With that being said, we are spoilt for choice with young stars in the league this season and some who have well and truly put their name in the mix for this award. 

The candidates who will be in the mix for the Next Generation Award are some of the brightest prospects the league has to offer, and while some may go on to the NBA, the rest are on a trajectory to become superstars right before our eyes.

Champion is also giving you the chance to win a $100 Champion digital gift card, simply by voting for your favourite Play of the Month from the Next Generation class of NBL25. Scroll down to enter.

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Alex Toohey

There is a big reason why the NBA eyes are enjoying what they see from Alex Toohey, as the Next Star continues to improve this season and be a vital piece to the Kings’ success. Averaging over 10 points per game, it’s the versatility that Toohey has on both ends that makes him an exciting prospect for the future. He has shown that throughout the season with his ability to guard any position on the court and have an impact offensively when required.

Ben Henshall

While Henshall has been relatively consistent in his play throughout the year, he continues to find a way to produce special moments where he piles on the points quickly. It’s been a big second season in Perth for the guard who has been able to learn alongside Bryce Cotton each day. His improvement has been easy to notice and it will be a big reason as to why he gets some opportunities overseas at the conclusion of this year.

Karim Lopez

Karim Lopez has been nothing short of outstanding in his first season as a Next Star. The teenage phenom from Mexico has played well above his age and proved to be one of the best players for his Breakers team. Not being draft eligible until 2026, Lopez’s growth this year has further cemented his position as a top pick when he declares after next season.

Wani Swaka-Lo-Buluk

When Wani Swaka-Lo-Buluk went to Illawarra, he did so with the hopes that he could unlock even more offensively, and still prove to be the defensive stopper he always has been. As his team sits first, he has been leading the charge in that area by taking some big individual scalps against some of the best talent in the league. If the Hawks are to win a championship this season, Swaka-Lo-Buluk will have to lead the way.

Taran Armstrong

Taran Armstrong has been one of the best guards in the entire competition since returning from injury in Round 10. The Tasmanian local will be a leading candidate to win the Most Improved Player as well as the Next Generation Award, due to his outstanding production. It’s sometimes easy to forget that he is just in his second professional season, as he quickly established himself as one of the best local guards in the entire league.  

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