Next Gen Award Watch: The first month of NBL25

Monday, October 28, 2024

We are spoilt for choice with young stars in the league and some who have well and truly put their name in the mix.

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.

Sam Mennenga
The New Zealand local returned home this season and is immediately revelling in his added responsibility on the court. Mennenga has been a stand out for the Breakers early in the season, and also stood tall during their NBA tour as well. His ability to step out and knock down the three, as well as finish around the rim, has him firmly in the mix to win this award.

Mennenga

Keli Leaupepe
Fresh out of college, Keli Leaupepe wasted no time in showing fans what he’s capable of. His production on the court continues to increase, coming off back-to-back double-doubles in Round 5. Brian Goorjian saw enough from the rookie in the pre-season to give him a starting opportunity, and he hasn’t let him down thus far.

Keli

Wani Swaka Lo Buluk
While there are many reasons the Hawks are top of the ladder after five rounds, a lot of that praise needs to be directed towards Wani Swaka Lo Buluk. Illawarra’s point of attack defender has been nothing short of exceptional in their first five games, winning every individual battle he has taken on. He’s also quietly going about his business on the other end, too, which could see him take another step forward in his career.

Swaka

Kyrin Galloway
Galloway understood that the move to Cairns would open up more opportunity for him to play, and he’s rewarded his coach thus far. Galloway came out of the blocks on fire this season and is currently shooting 60 per cent from three. As Cairns continue to search for consistency in their play, Galloway has been a shining light.

Galloway

Alex Toohey
There was a lot of pressure mounting on Alex Toohey this season, ahead of entering the draft next year, and he has risen to the occasion. He is shooting the ball with confidence and taking on big assignments defensively, all traits which NBA eyes want to see. Perhaps the best part about Toohey’s progress is that he is still yet to scratch the surface of how good he can really be.

Toohey