Young Talent Thrives Off NBL1 Development

Basketball Australia Centre of Excellence (COE) star Rocco Zikarsky has revealed how his development as a young big has grown since playing in the NBL1.

Zikarsky, a 16-year-old superstar, is already on his journey of hopefully achieving his ultimate dream of reaching the NBA. The 7’2 big won Basketball Queensland’s Athlete of the Year award in 2022 and has showcased his skills on the international stage.

In the NBL1 East, he is averaging 11.7 points and 5.7 rebounds for the 7-1 CoE. 

Zikarsky confirmed his growth and development accelerated as soon as he stepped on the court with former and current NBL basketball players in NBL1 East.

“Playing against ex-NBL guys and current NBL guys in that NBL1 East circuit, it’s really helped me out. Playing with their physicality and playing with their strengths,” Zikarsky said on Basketball Queensland’s No Offense Podcast.

“Even just being on the bench and watching how they play compared to how the younger guys play, there’s a skill gap but it comes with time.”

At just 16, Zikarsky’s height and skill is undeniable and it has led to him attracting a slew of hype amongst basketball circles.  

Zikarsky praised the work of his teammates at the COE and how playing with, and against, with players of all ages has helped his development.

“Not only playing in the NBL1 East but playing at the COE, you’re constantly playing against guys, especially for me, guys that are 17, 18, 19. They’re a little bit older, a little bit more developed,” he said.

COE and Zikarsky next play the Canberra Gunners on Saturday at 8:00pm AEST. Watch the game live and free on the NBL1 Website and NBL1 App.