Rupert Continues Mock Draft Rise

The performances of New Zealand Next Star Rayan Rupert in the NBL23 Finals has once again seen him rise in ESPN’s latest 2023 mock draft.

Rupert – who started the season ranked as a selection outside the first round by some experts – is now seen as the 16^th best young prospect in the world.

He’s consistently risen up the ranks in ESPN’s mind this season after being seen as the 17^th best prospect just a month ago.

The Athletic’s draft expert Sam Vecenie predicted Rupert could be selected as high as the lottery selections.

Despite his tender age, Rupert’s mix of size and athleticism has often seen him tasked with defending the opposition’s most capable shooters – and in the NBL Championship Series he has often matched up on Sydney’s DJ Vasiljevic, a player Pete Hooley believes could have NBA potential in the future.

Rupert will not only be hoping to follow former Breakers Next Stars Ousmane Dieng and RJ Hampton into the NBA next season, but he will be hoping to do so with an NBL championship ring in his pocket.

The Breakers and Kings contest Game 3 of the NBL23 Championship Series tonight – Friday, March 10 – at 7:30pm AEDT.

Catch the game live and free on ESPN via Kayo Freebies, or on Sky Sports and Prime in New Zealand.