Malique Lewis’ confidence is at an all-time high, and if his recent form continues, his draft stock will only continue to rise.

The South East Melbourne Phoenix Next Star has become somewhat of a human highlight reel in recent weeks, and upping his production in the process.

“He is a machine,” NBL champion Damon Lowery said on NBL Overtime.

“He does all the little things; blocking shots, rebounding the ball.

“He’s got the same level of poise we’ve seen from Karim Lopez (New Zealand Breakers). These dudes are playing with a level of maturity that younger guys don’t normally play with.

“He’s a long defender and kind of reminds me of Rayan Rupert (former Next Star)… he can guard point guards, he can guard two guards, he can guard small forwards. He’s very versatile defensively.”

Lowery praised former Phoenix coach Mike Kelly for starting the 19-year-old early in the season, with Lewis averaging close to 30 minutes a game across the past month.

He had 10 points, 6 rebounds, a block and a steal in the win over Perth, and has played a key role in the team winning four of its last five games.

“He’s starting to add some more things,” NBL analyst Pete Hooley added.

“He’s a three-and-d type prospect, that’s what NBA teams are looking at.

“The draft ... from pick 10 onwards you’re drafting on potential. What can they be? Are they going to be impactful in those first two years? Usually not. But what they can be in three years’ time?

“He was a three-and-d prospect who could space the floor, knock down the three and lock up defensively, but he’s adding so much more to his game over the last few and I think he’s going to continue to rise up the boards.”

Lewis has already enjoyed experience against bigger bodies in the G-League across the 2023/2024 season, and previous to that in Spain.

Teammate Nathan Sobey added to the praise for the emerging youngster.

“Malique has been unbelievable,” Sobey said.

“He's going to continue to grow as his confidences goes. He's great to play with.”

The Phoenix will travel to Sydney on Friday night, taking on the Kings from 7.30pm AEDT, live on ESPN.