SNAPSHOT
A towering big man who has strong potential if he can tap into his skillset and make the most of his physical attributes, Rocco Zikarsky is shaping as a second round selection at the 2025 NBA Draft, and will add to the growing list of Aussies competing at the top level.
Although injuries derailed what was meant to be a big season from the big man, Zikarsky impressed at the draft combine, and should be picked up at the intake in Chicago, and if he can make the most of his towering height, is certainly worth the investment.
DRAFT PROFILE
Born on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia, Zikarsky got on the radar thanks to his junior performances, mainly at Brisbane Grammar School. He was then invited to the NBA Global Academy in Canberra, where he was a standout player amongst an exciting crop of youngsters.
After competing with the Centre of Excellence in 2023 at NBL1 level, Zikarsky made waves when he joined the Brisbane Bullets as an NBL Next Star, which would certainly give him the chance to showcase his skills. He did exactly that in his first season with the club, emerging as a top 10 prospect after making the most of his limited court time.
His second campaign with the Bullets was largely expected to be a leap in his production, but could not crack into the starting lineup, before injuries ensured he did not get the chance to get any continuity in his own game, and eventually ended his season.
Throughout his final season with the Bullets, Zikarsky averaged 4.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, 0.3 assists, 0.3 steals and 0.6 blocks per game while shooting 52.4 per cent from the field and 57.1 per cent from the charity stripe. However, it was his appearance at the draft combine that turned heads, having clearly put on some size since his last NBL outing.
STRENGTHS
+ Rim protection
+ Inside scoring
+ Rebounding
+ Size
IMPROVEMENTS
- Offensive production
- Perimeter defence
Standing a whopping seven-foot-three, Zikarsky undoubtedly has many of the physical tools that are required to make it as a big man in the NBA, and he uses this to his advantage on the defensive end. Excellent when playing drop coverage, the Aussie can block or at least alter shots more often than not, and forces teams to put up jumpshots with this skill.
His best tool on the offensive end is his inside scoring, operating best as a lob threat and using his seven-foot-five wingspan to his advantage. With towering height and a commanding reach, Zikarsky has been an alley-oop performer throughout his entire NBL career, and it is a skill that should translate to the NBA if paired with a solid point guard.
On the glass, Zikarsky has promising form that should allow him to take this skill to the top level and become a prominent rebounder. He is not afraid of physical contact (likely less so now that he has put on more size over recent months), and times his leaps well to get first hands on the ball.
There are still plenty of question marks around his game, including his ability to consistently hit the scoreboard and whether he will be able to hold his own on the perimeter defensively when teams hunt him for a switch, but NBA coaching should develop these skills.
DRAFT PROJECTION: Mid second round
Zikarsky's appearance at the draft combine certainly boosted his draft stock, and teams will still remember when he was considered a top-10 talent. Although he may take a few seasons to develop, his physical gifts will make him worth the punt in the second round.
