NBL Media looks at the Next Stars who could land in the NBA via the Draft in late June. 

Name: Ariel Hukporti
Position: C
Height: 7'0
Weight: 113 kg
Age: 22
Born: Germany

A mobile center who runs the floor, blocks shots and finishes above the rim.

The athletic Hukporti has drawn comparisons to Miami's Thomas Bryant. Each are known for their interior presence around the basket at both ends of the court. 

Thomas Bryant.

Likely selection: Second round (Picks 31-58)

Hukporti has been mocked in the second round by ESPN for most of the 2024 draft cycle.  

Averages: 7.9 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 1.5 BPG
Season highlight: Round 4 vs Illawarra - 21 PTS (6-7 FG), 10 REB, 1 BLK, 1 STL

Hukporti is a defensive athletic big who feeds off offensive rebounds, alley-oops and pick and roll play. Defensively he blocks shots and protects the rim at a high quality level.

Hukporti already has a number of years of experience as a pro which would fill any team with more confidence about his ability to adapt to new situations and find his role.

“He showed that he can be an elite player at the defensive end of the floor." - Dean Vickerman (Melbourne United Head Coach)

“His ability to catch the ball, finish above the rim, his shot-blocking ability, his robust athleticism, and he’s starting to develop.” - Andrew Gaze (NBL Legend)