Dash Daniels confirmed as Next Star for NBL26

Months of speculation have now been put to rest with Dash Daniels, younger brother of Aussie NBA phenom Dyson Daniels, committing to the Next Stars program with Melbourne United for the 2025/2026 season on a 2 year deal.

Daniels who turns 17 this month, will be eligible for the 2026 draft and is likely to commit given his already well known name and basketball ability.

"I am joining one of the toughest leagues in the world," Daniels told ESPN. "Playing against grown men at a young age will only help me develop. The Next Stars Program has proven to help lots of young stars achieve their dream of playing in the NBA, which is mine also. "

Similar to his brother Dyson, Dash is a top notch defender. Most recently he led all players in Steals at the 2024 U17 FIBA World Cup representing Australia.

Melbourne United are excited to have Daniels on board after having their most recent Next Star Ariel Hukporti drafted in the 2024 draft earlier this year.

“The recruitment of Dash has been ongoing for a while now,” Coach Dean Vickerman explained. “Once we knew that he had interest in the Next Stars program, we knew it could be a really good fit.

Despite having one eye on the draft Dash Daniels still wants to contribute to his team next season in a positive way.

“That’s another main goal of mine, trying to win a championship. I’m going to bring everything to this team that I’ve got, I’m going to play defence, I’m going to give energy, I’m going to try and get that championship for the team.” Catch Melbourne United vs South East Melbourne on Sunday at 2:30pm AEDT