WITH THE 2025 Under-19 FIBA World Cup approaching, the Australian Emus have announced their extended 25-man squad, with plenty of familiar faces making an appearance.

The recent Under-20 National Championships was the perfect showcase for how much young talent is coming through the Australian Basketball system, and some of the best performers from that tournament will be donning Aussie colours to represent their country in Switzerland in June.

A couple of the team’s biggest names will be dependent on health, with Rocco Zikarsky and Roman Siulepa both questionable as it stands. Zikarsky will have his name in NBA Draft conversations despite having a quiet season with the Brisbane Bullets, but his physical attributes and ceiling will still have him around the mark on draft night.

On the other hand, Siulepa is fresh off winning tournament MVP at the National Championships, almost dragging Queensland to the title had he not missed the second half of the decider through injury. A physical force who can rebound, pass, defend and score at all three levels, the forward looms as a serious presence in Australian basketball for the future.

Luke Fennell was another strong performer throughout the National Championships, shooting Victoria to title favouritism for much of the tournament. Although his side fell to Siulepa and the Maroons in the semi-final, the Victorian skipper was a constant presence on the offensive end, and broke several games open with his immense shotmaking.

Fellow Queenslander Indy Cotton is one to watch too, with the combo guard capable of both scoring and setting up his teammates. Having spent some time with the Centre of Excellence, he has been developing his game at a rapid rate, and is a strong chance of making the final team.

Tasmania will be represented by Jacob Furphy, who erupted for 42 points during one match at the National Championships, and has committed to play NCAA basketball for the UConn Huskies, who were impressed with his natural feel for the game.

One of the most familiar names in the squad will be Dash Daniels, who has recently signed with Melbourne United as a Next Star in the NBL. His brother Dyson is already a Boomer and has made a name for himself in the NBA with the Atlanta Hawks, but Dash is more of an on-ball creator, while still maintaining his brother’s defensive prowess.

The Emus will be led by Robbie McKinlay, who was thrilled with the quality of the team’s roster heading towards the World Cup.

“This is the start of the journey towards the World Cup so it’s an exciting time for these young players. We are looking forward to having such a deep and versatile group in camp,” said McKinlay.