THE NBL Blitz kicks off tomorrow, with Australia’s premier basketball competition set to hold its official preseason tournament ahead of the season start date in a couple of weeks.

The tournament will be held on the Gold Coast from September 16-22, with all 10 teams facing off in the Sunshine State to put the finishing touches on their rosters and game styles ahead of one of the most anticipated seasons in recent memory.

The competition looks as even as ever, and the Blitz tournament will showcase a true glimpse of which sides will be pushing for title contention during the upcoming fixture. There will also be plenty of NBA scouts on the ground during the tournament, so there will be eyes aplenty on the Gold Coast over the next week.

With that in mind, Rookie Me Central will be highlighting three players that are worth keeping an eye on during the Blitz tournament, with a young gun kicking things off.

1. Alexandre Sarr – Perth Wildcats

Sarr is one of the most hyped prospects coming into next year’s NBA Draft, and is set to spend the NBL season out West. The Wildcats faced off against the G-League Ignite in a preseason hitout for both sides, and Sarr was one of the biggest stories to come out of the two games. The athletic tall was a powerful force for both sides, and has stormed into contention for a top-10 selection in the 2024 draft. His ability to finish inside, stretch the floor and protect the rim defensively makes him an exciting prospect, and will be certainly watched by scouts.

2. Matthew Dellavedova – Melbourne United

One of Australia’s most beloved guards returns to the NBL after a season with the Sacramento Kings in the NBA. ‘Delly’ previously played with United during the 2021/22 season, and helped them to the minor championship with his veteran experience and crafty play on both ends of the floor. However, he will come back with plenty of motivation, having been stunningly left out of the Australian Boomers’ World Cup squad much earlier than expected. United looks rejuvenated after dropping down the ladder last campaign, and Dellavedova is one of many big-name recruits that joined the team over the offseason, but will come back hungry and driven to steer his side to victory.

3. Trentyn Flowers – Adelaide 36ers

The 36ers acquired themselves a Next Star with the addition of Flowers to the roster, who could bring plenty of X-Factor to the team. The six-foot-eight guard/forward recently de-committed from the Louisville Cardinals, opting to bring his talents down under and join Adelaide. Playing alongside Mitch McCarron, Flowers seems destined to bloom ahead of his likely selection in next year’s NBA draft. Although he is one of the most exciting players in the competition in terms of potential, there was cause for concern with Flowers struggling with his handle when being picked up full-court in a recent practice match, a likely common occurrence given his skillset. Keep an eye on him during the Blitz to see if any adjustments have been made.