NOA KOUAKOU-HENGUE has become the second Frenchman to join the Perth Wildcats as an NBL Next Star, after joining the pathway for the 2025/26 season following an eye-catching stint on the international stage.

A big man who brings plenty of versatility to the table, Kouakou-Heugue stands a mighty six-foot-11, and is rising as a prospect for the 2026 NBA Draft class after representing his home country at the 2025 FIBA Under-19 World Cup.

The Next Stars program has become a popular option for French draft hopefuls, with the likes of Alexandre Sarr, Ousmane Dieng and Rayan Rupert all using the pathway to reach the NBA, with Sarr suiting up for the Wildcats as well during his tenure down under.

Kouakou-Heugue plays the power forward position, and is an extremely mobile frontcourt player, bringing exciting speed and an impressive motor to the table. Although he is still raw as a prospect and will certainly benefit from growing into his frame, playing alongside and against professional players in the NBL will be an excellent opportunity to accelerate his development.

Playing for France at the 2025 U19 World Cup, he was selected into the starting lineup, and caught the attention of the world with a thunderous slam against the star-studded United States. Throughout the tournament, he showcased his athletic profile and was a solid performer for his home nation.

He averaged 7.0 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game, showing why NBA scouts are interested in his potential as a two-way talent at the top level in the coming years, and the Next Stars program is the perfect next step in his development.

“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.”

The Wildcats are currently looking ahead to a new chapter following the departure of star point guard Bryce Cotton, and the addition of Kouakou-Heugue is a prospect that excites Perth head coach John Rillie.

“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.”

Kouakou-Heugue is the fourth Next Star to be announced, following the return of Karim Lopez (New Zealand Breakers) and Malique Lewis (SEM Phoenix), while Dash Daniels will be joining Melbourne United as well.