Spanish Next Star Izan Almansa has taken a significant early step with the Perth Wildcats, scoring 11 points in a pre-season game in Japan On Friday.

The 19-year-old, considered one of the greatest ever youth players in international basketball, has already drawn praise from coach John Rillie.

An impressive display in a 64-point win over Nagoya only further enhanced his stocks heading into the new NBL season.

Rillie says Almansa's attitude and work ethic have stood out since he arrived in Australia last month.

“It’s those things and his willingness to join our group with the right attitude and mentality,” Rillie told the Wildcats' website.

“His work ethic has been very good so far. He understands he needs to improve in certain areas if he wants to get to the level that he is capable of. It was very good for him to start in that way.”

The 6’10 big man, who hails from Murcia, Spain, possesses a 7’1 wingspan and is an impact player on both ends of the floor.  

“It was great, I had so much fun," Almansa said of his first game in Perth colours.

“Last weekend I couldn't play so seeing those games from the bench, I don't like that so I'm so happy to play today finally.

“I was frustrated (to not play last weekend) but I know that was the best for me.

“I think we had a great game and I'm so happy to play for the Wildcats.”

Almansa was named MVP of the 2022 FIBA U17 World Cup, 2022 FIBA U18 European Championships and 2023 FIBA U19 World Cup. He was the first non-USA player to be named MVP of the U17 World Cup, and the first ever player to be named MVP of both the U17 World Cup and the U19 World Cup. 

The Wildcats have won all three pre-season games so far ahead of the NBL25 season, which tips off with Hoops Fest in Perth from September 19.