Daniels’ golden focus ahead of World Cup

While the 2025 NBA Draft has come and gone, Melbourne United’s Next Star is hoping to add to his resume in the lead up to hopefully hearing his name called at the 2026 NBA Draft.

Dash Daniels is currently in Europe with the Australian Emus as the team prepares for the FIBA U19 World Cup.

It is an event no Australian team has won since 2000 in Greece, which featured United assistant coach Rhys Carter and former player Brad Newley.

Looking at the task ahead of him, Daniels said he and his teammates have full confidence in their ability to end that 25-year drought.

 “I think with this team, we’re ready to go all out and do what it takes to win it all,” he said.

“We’ve got high expectations and I think we have the team to do it. Winning gold, it’s something that Australia hasn’t achieved for a long time. Rhys Carter has told me a lot about what it takes to win it all and that’s the ultimate goal.”

Since signing with United as a Next Star, Daniels’ ability has continued to grow.

Still 17 years old, the Bendigo-born guard believes going up against his NBL26 teammates, as well as his time spent battling against men in the NBL1 with Sandringham, has prepared him to come out with aggression.

“I think it’s helped a lot, knowing that these FIBA games can be really physical,” he explained.

“Playing against the United guys for the past few months, they’re bigger, they’re experienced, they have prepared me to be able to compete with anyone and know what to expect in these games.

“Now playing against guys my own age, I’ve got a better feel for using my size, being physical and getting to my spots.”

The Emus first test will come on Sunday morning at 1:15am against defending Champions, the United States.

Daniels said he’s excited at the opportunity to pull off the upset victory.

“There’s no better way to start than by going against arguably the best team in the tournament.

“It’s going to be a good challenge, it’s going to set the standard for what we have to expect from the first minute. We’re going into that game hungry to get off to a perfect start.”

Fans can tune in to all of Daniel’s games at the tournament via the FIBA YouTube channel for free.

The only way to ensure you don’t miss a second of Dash’s journey with Melbourne United is by becoming a Member today!

Melbourne United Memberships have been selling fast with multiple Full Season Memberships categories already sold out. Limited Full Season memberships remain available, as do our 3 & 5 Game Memberships. Fans are encouraged to sign up NOW to avoid missing out. To find out more about our Membership options, click here.