The Perth Wildcats have landed another highly-touted NBA draft prospect, signing French teenager Noa Kouakou-Heugue under the NBL's Next Stars program.
Kouakou-Heugue, a 208cm power forward, is regarded as one of Europe's top young talents and is a projected second-round pick next year.
He made the FIBA Under-19 World Cup highlights reel with a huge dunk against the USA this month, averaging 7.0 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.6 blocks through the tournament.
The 18-year-old will start his professional career in a Wildcats outfit with a strong recent record of developing NBA talent under coach John Rillie.
Compatriot Alex Sarr was the No.2 overall pick in 2024, while Spain's Izan Almansa has joined the Philadelphia 76ers for this year's NBA Summer League.
"I think the NBL Next Stars program can help me to reach my ultimate goal, which is the NBA," Kouakou-Heugue said.
"The NBL is recognised as being a really hard and physical league, and that will help me a lot.
"My first interaction with coach Rillie and the Wildcats was really good.
"They were talking to me like they are going to help me be the best version of myself, and I really appreciated it."
Rillie is excited by the prospect of having Kouakou-Heugue at his disposal next season.
"The Perth Wildcats have had success with the Next Star program, so I look forward to seeing how Noa embraces this opportunity," Rillie said.
"With his current skill set he adds athleticism and versatility to our front-line at the defensive end.
"Offensively, he's a gazelle in transition. Developing his pick-and-roll skills will become a daily habit.
"To round it out, he will be asked to live on the glass."
The addition of Kouakou-Heugue adds depth to a Wildcats team seeking to move on after the messy exit of club legend Bryce Cotton, who has joined the Adelaide 36ers.
Perth are also still searching for a third import after re-signing American duo Kristian Doolittle and Dylan Windler.